Arbroath Abbey Angus Scotland

Arbroath Abbey, Arbroath, Scotland

Historic Arbroath Abbey, Angus

Arbroath Abbey, Scotland. — Arbroath Abbey was formerly a Benedictine monastery

Arbroath Abbey is a historic ruin located in the town of Arbroath on the east coast of Scotland, north of Dundee. It is one of the most important historical sites in Scotland, known for its association with the Declaration of Arbroath, a significant document in Scottish history.

History

The abbey was founded in 1178 by King William the Lion (William I) of Scotland for a group of Tironensian Benedictine monks from Kelso Abbey. The construction of the abbey took several decades, and it became a prominent religious center in medieval Scotland. The abbey church was consecrated in 1197. The abbey was planned to serve as a memorial to William's friend from childhood Thomas Becket, Archbishop of Canterbury, murdered in 1170 inside Canterbury Cathedral.

In addition the construction of the abbey signaled William's authority in the north-east of Scotland and his right to rule in Scotland. William lies buried in the abbey following his death in 1214. For a time Arbroath Abbey was the richest in Scotland.

Arbroath Abbey suffered damage during various conflicts and periods of unrest, including the Wars of Scottish Independence. By the 16th century, during the Scottish Reformation, the abbey fell into decline, and its monastic activities ceased. The buildings gradually fell into disrepair, and much of the abbey was eventually dismantled.

Today, Arbroath Abbey is a picturesque ruin managed by Historic Environment Scotland. Visitors can explore the remains of the abbey church, the chapter house, and the interesting Visitor Centre, thus gaining a sense of the site's historical significance.

The abbey is associated with the historic Declaration of Arbroath. — The abbey is associated with the historic Declaration of Arbroath in 1320

Goods From Japan delivered to your home or business. — Goods From Japan delivered to your home or business

Declaration of Arbroath

One of the most notable events associated with Arbroath Abbey occurred in 1320 when the Declaration of Arbroath was drafted and signed. The declaration was a letter signed by 39 Scottish nobles and sent to Pope John XXII, asserting Scotland's independence from England.

It was intended to support King Robert the Bruce's claim to the Scottish throne and to affirm the nation's right to self-determination. The document is considered one of the most important in Scottish history and has been regarded as an early expression of the principles of constitutional monarchy.

The document's most famous lines are: "It is in truth not for glory, nor riches, nor honours that we are fighting, but for freedom - for that alone, which no honest man gives up but with life itself." They are thought to have influenced the American Declaration of Independence.

The Visitor Centre has exhibits on various aspects of the abbey and the lives of the monks who lived here. — The Visitor Centre has exhibits on various aspects of the abbey and the lives of the monks who lived here

Visitor Centre

The Visitor Centre includes the Medieval Powerhouse exhibition and explains the history of the Declaration of Arbroath. Visitors can also see a copy of the Stone of Destiny (Stone of Scone) where Scottish monarchs were once crowned at what is now the Palace of Scone. When the stone was stolen from Westminster Abbey in 1950 it reappeared on the altar of the abbey in 1951.

The abbey is a Scheduled Ancient Monument and a Category A listed building, attesting to its cultural and historical importance. The annual commemoration of the Declaration of Arbroath takes place at the abbey, drawing attention to its pivotal role in Scottish history.

The grounds of the abbey. — The grounds of Arbroath Abbey

The abbey is now largely in ruins. — The abbey is now largely in ruins

Access & Hours

Abbey Street
Arbroath, DD11 1EG
Tel: 01241 878 756
www: historicenvironment.scot

1 April to 30 September; Daily, 9.30 am to 5.30 pm; Last entry 4.45 pm; 1 October to 31 March; Daily, 10 am to 4 pm; Last entry 3.15 pm; Closed for lunch 12.30 pm to 1.30 pm

The nearest railway station to the abbey is Arbroath Station, around 10 minutes away on foot. It is on the line from Aberdeen to Dundee Station. The fastest trains take about 20 minutes between Dundee and Arbroath.

Located on South Union Street Dundee Station has trains to London King's Cross Station from Aberdeen via Edinburgh, Newcastle and York Station in York as well as more local ScotRail trains to Glasgow Queen Street in Glasgow via Perth and Stirling as well as connections south to Edinburgh Waverley Station in Edinburgh.

If you wish to stay in Arbroath try the Old Brewhouse, at 1 High Street. Also recommended is The Townhouse Hotel Arbroath at 99 High Street.

In addition, out in Broughty Ferry, just outside Dundee, try the recommended Best Western Woodlands Hotel Dundee.

Arbroath Abbey. — Nowadays Arbroath Abbey in Arbroath is a Category A Listed Building

Arbroath Attractions

In addition to the abbey other attractions in and around Arbroath include the harbour and marina, the Signal Tower Museum, the picturesque Arbroath Cliffs and attractive Auchmithie up the coast, known as the home of the Arbroath Smokie.