Arbroath Abbey was founded in 1178 by King William the Lion and dedicated to Thomas Becket.
For almost four centuries it was one of the richest monasteries in Scotland, and even as a
ruin its scale is striking: tall walls of deep red sandstone standing in the middle of the
town.
The Declaration of Arbroath
The abbey is best known for the Declaration of Arbroath of 1320, the letter sent to the Pope
in the name of Scotland's barons asserting the kingdom's independence. It is one of the
most famous documents in Scottish history, and the abbey's visitor centre tells its story
alongside the story of the abbey itself.
What you will see
Look up at the south transept for the great round window, known locally as the "Round O".
It was once lit as a beacon for ships at sea. Walk the length of the church and through
the remains of the cloister buildings, and you get a real sense of how large and busy the
monastery once was.
Planning your visit
The abbey is cared for by Historic Environment Scotland, which is the place to check
current opening arrangements and admission before you go. It sits in the town centre, a
short walk from both Arbroath station and the harbour, so it combines easily with the rest
of a day in Arbroath.
For more places to visit from The Station Hotel, see Explore the Area.
