Melrose Abbey

Today my 2 cousins & Bethany decided to escape the rain forecast for the west of Scotland and headed to the east of the country, The Border Town if Melrose, world famous for it Rugby & the Abbey ( more details below) we arrived at around 9:30am and the rain wasn't too far behind, although it was only showers ( forecast all day) we first stopped off at St. Andrews Kirk for a few photos, then the rain cane down, then the abbey once the sun cane back out, took more photos, then the rain cane down again, stepped into local bakers for some food ( pies & cakes) sun cane out again, walked into the Book Fare that was going on, took a few photos of the big house, got asked if we were professional photographers or from a newspaper! No was our answer, ah well can you make your you keep your photos to a minimum & do not photograph children?.. This threw us, why did they ask this? We we promised to do as was requested, got an ice cream and left, headed to the waters edge to capture some men fishing.. Rain cane on again! Went back to the car, drive a little way, took some photos of some Roman forts, amphitheatre ( although nothing much to see except an artist impression) rain cane on again, headed back home, stopped off at an old Kirk and one of the best Castles I've ever seen ( keep that for another day) again rain came down! So we decided that nature had won today and headed back home. Enjoyed it so much & Bethany too!

Some info re the Abbey! Off to make Bethany some supper ( oh a Fathers work is never done eh! lol )




Melrose Abbey is a magnificent ruin on a grand scale with lavishly decorated masonry.
Probably the most famous ruin in Scotland, the abbey was founded by David I in 1136 for the Cistercian Order, and it was largely destroyed by Richard II's English army in 1385. The surviving remains of the church are of the early 15th century, and are of an elegance unsurpassed in Scotland. Objects found during excavation are displayed in the Commendator's House.
The exterior of this magnificent ruin is decorated by unusual sculptures, including hobgoblins, cooks with ladles and a bagpipe playing pig.
The abbey is also thought to be the burial place of Robert the Bruce's heart, marked with a commemorative carved stone plaque within the grounds.
An alternative route around the abbey avoids steps. The church, cloister and museum grounds are suitable for visitors using wheelchairs or those with limited mobility. Audio tour tapes are available, including a version for visitors with learning difficulties.