Arbroath Abbey

Advance booking only

Arbroath Abbey is a testament to the dynamic piety of Scotland’s medieval monarchs. It was founded in 1178 by King William I ‘the Lion’ as a memorial to his childhood friend Thomas Becket, Archbishop of Canterbury, who was murdered in 1170. The king was buried in front of the abbey’s high altar following his death in 1214. William’s legacy was an outstandingly beautiful building. Though badly damaged, it remains an important symbol and landmark. Visitors can currently access the Visitor Centre and grounds. Due to access restrictions in place as a precautionary measure while we undertake high level masonry inspections, there is currently no visitor access to the abbey. We recommend booking online in advance to guarantee entry.