Discover the Tranquility of Sweetheart Abbey
Explore Sweetheart Abbey, a serene and romantic historical site in Dumfries that beautifully captures Scotland's medieval charm and rich heritage.
Sweetheart Abbey, nestled in the charming town of Dumfries, is a breathtaking historical site that captivates visitors with its stunning architecture and serene surroundings. Founded in the 13th century, this abbey is not only a remarkable example of Gothic architecture but also a poignant testament to a romantic legend. The abbey's tranquil gardens and captivating ruins offer a perfect backdrop for exploration and reflection, making it an essential stop for tourists in the region.
A brief summary to Sweetheart Abbey
- Main St, Dumfries, DG2 8BU, GB
- +441387850397
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays for a quieter experience, as weekends can be busier with tourists.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in the abbey's gardens, taking in the tranquil surroundings.
- Don't miss the opportunity to take photos of the stunning architecture against the backdrop of the gardens.
- Check local event schedules; the abbey sometimes hosts historical reenactments and guided tours.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving to Sweetheart Abbey, head towards Dumfries, located in the southwest of Scotland. From the M74 motorway, take the exit for the A75 toward Dumfries. Follow the A75 until you reach the roundabout at the outskirts of Dumfries, then take the A780 exit. Continue on the A780 until you reach Main St. Sweetheart Abbey is located at Main St, Dumfries DG2 8BU. There is parking available nearby, but be sure to check for any parking fees that may apply.
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Public Transportation
To reach Sweetheart Abbey via public transport, take a train to Dumfries from major cities like Glasgow or Edinburgh. The train journey typically takes around 2-3 hours. Upon arriving at Dumfries train station, you can take bus number 246 towards 'Dumfries' or a taxi from the station directly to Sweetheart Abbey, which is about a 10-minute drive. Be sure to check the bus schedule in advance as it may vary, and fare for the bus is approximately £2-£5.
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Walking
If you are already in the Dumfries area or traveling by public transport, you may choose to walk to Sweetheart Abbey from the city center. It is approximately a 20-minute walk (about 1 mile) from Dumfries town center. Head northeast on the A780, then turn left onto Main St. Continue straight until you reach Sweetheart Abbey, which will be on your right. This is a pleasant walk that allows you to enjoy the local scenery.
Discover more about Sweetheart Abbey
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Waterloo Monument
1.4 km
A 150-foot stone tower on Peniel Heugh, built to commemorate the Battle of Waterloo and offering panoramic views across the Scottish Borders and Solway Firth.
Wardlaw Hillfort
6.0 km
Explore the ancient moated triangular hillfort near Dumfries with panoramic views and rich prehistoric heritage.
Isle Tower
6.9 km
Explore Isle Tower, a serene 17th-century Scottish tower house ruin guarding historic routes near Dumfries in picturesque Dumfries and Galloway.
Mossband Residential Park
9.2 km
Tranquil rural living with modern comforts and scenic views near Dumfries in the heart of Scotland’s countryside.
Dumfries Historic Buildings Trust
9.8 km
Discover the architectural heritage of Dumfries at the Dumfries Historic Buildings Trust, where history is preserved for future generations.
Queensberry Monument
9.9 km
An elegant 18th-century stone column in Dumfries honoring the 3rd Duke of Queensberry and the town’s noble heritage.
Dumfries
10.3 km
Historic and accessible Dumfries Railway Station connects Scotland’s southwest with modern amenities and rich heritage.
Dumfries Tours
11.1 km
Explore Dumfries with immersive tours that blend history, culture, and stunning landscapes for an unforgettable experience.
Kingdom Scotland
12.7 km
Discover tranquility at Kingdom Scotland, a serene religious institution in Dumfries that invites spiritual reflection and community connection.
Little Dalton Kirk
15.0 km
Discover the evocative ruins of Little Dalton Kirk, a medieval parish church nestled in tranquil Scottish countryside near Lockerbie.
Fourmerkland Tower
15.5 km
Discover the tranquil charm and rich history of Fourmerkland Tower, a secluded 16th-century Scottish tower house near Dumfries.
Comyn's Tower
17.9 km
Explore Comyn's Tower near Dumfries, a medieval stronghold entwined with Scotland’s dramatic history and the legacy of the Comyn clan.
Threave House
21.9 km
Explore the beauty and history of Threave House, a stunning historical landmark in Scotland's enchanting countryside.
Threave Castle
22.8 km
Explore the medieval charm and natural beauty of Threave Castle, a hidden gem in Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland, perfect for history lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
The National Trust for Scotland - Thomas Carlyle's Birthplace
24.3 km
Discover the birthplace of Thomas Carlyle, a historical gem in Ecclefechan, celebrating Scottish literary heritage and tranquil village charm.
Unmissable attractions to see
New Abbey Corn Mill
0.2 km
Explore New Abbey Corn Mill, a beautifully restored 18th-century water-powered mill showcasing Scotland’s rich rural heritage and traditional milling craft.
Drumburn Viewpoint
4.7 km
Tranquil panoramic views over the Nith Estuary, perfect for peaceful reflection and nature appreciation in Dumfries.
Mabie Farm Park
5.1 km
Farm adventure meets forest magic where rare animals, thrilling activities, and all-weather play converge beneath Scottish skies.
Caerlaverock Castle
6.1 km
Explore Scotland’s unique triangular medieval fortress with a moat, twin towers, rich history, and scenic nature reserve near Dumfries.
Old Caerlaverock Castle
6.3 km
Explore Scotland’s only triangular castle, a moated medieval fortress steeped in centuries of border warfare and Maxwell family history.
Kingholm Quay Harbour
7.5 km
Historic riverside quay on the River Nith blending Dumfries’ maritime heritage with tranquil scenic charm.
Castledykes Park
8.5 km
Discover Dumfries’ historic green heart where medieval heritage meets tranquil gardens and vibrant wildlife habitats.
WWT Caerlaverock
8.6 km
Discover Scotland’s premier wetland sanctuary where thousands of migratory birds create a spectacular natural show year-round.
Arbigland House and Gardens
9.1 km
Historic Georgian estate and expansive gardens with coastal views, rich in Scottish heritage and cultural connections.
Dock Park
9.3 km
Historic riverside park in Dumfries with family-friendly play, mini-golf, bowling, and scenic picnic spots beside the River Nith.
Dumfries Museum
9.4 km
Explore Dumfries’ rich heritage and the world’s oldest working camera obscura in this captivating museum of history and science.
St Michael’s and South Parish Church
9.5 km
Discover Dumfries’ oldest church, a historic landmark rich with medieval pillars, stunning stained glass, and the Burns’ Mausoleum.
Burns Mausoleum
9.5 km
Final resting place of Robert Burns in a historic Dumfries churchyard, surrounded by centuries of Scottish stories and monuments.
Robert Burns House
9.6 km
Explore the intimate final home of Robert Burns in Dumfries, where Scotland’s national poet lived, wrote, and left a lasting legacy.
Robert Burns Centre
9.6 km
Discover the life and legacy of Robert Burns in Dumfries’ historic watermill, featuring immersive exhibits and a vibrant independent film theatre.
Essential places to dine
The Boathouse Restaurant & Shop
3.8 km
Charming waterfront dining and shopping with fresh local fare and nautical ambiance in scenic Glencaple near Dumfries.
The Steamboat Inn
7.0 km
Quirky coastal pub with hearty seafood, cozy fires, and stunning Solway Firth views in the heart of Carsethorn.
The Swan - Kingholm Quay
7.5 km
A welcoming riverside pub in Dumfries offering hearty British fare, great beers, and a friendly atmosphere at Kingholm Quay.
Easterbrook Bistro, Bar & Spa
8.1 km
Modern tapas dining and spa relaxation in the heart of Dumfries’ historic Crichton campus.
Bankend Bar & Brasserie
8.2 km
Contemporary dining with seasonal, locally sourced dishes and scenic views at Dumfries’ stylish Bankend Bar & Brasserie.
The Jolly Harvester Bar & Restaurant
9.2 km
A family-friendly pub and restaurant in Dumfries serving hearty meals with a welcoming atmosphere and outdoor fun for all ages.
Crumb
9.4 km
Modern dining meets local charm at Crumb, a welcoming Dumfries restaurant known for quality dishes and relaxed atmosphere.
The Bank Bar and Tapas
9.7 km
A vibrant, fully gluten-free tapas bar in Dumfries blending international flavors with a lively social atmosphere and inclusive dining.
The Globe Inn Dumfries
9.7 km
Historic 17th-century pub and Michelin Guide dining in Dumfries, blending Robert Burns heritage with modern Scottish cuisine and an extensive whisky collection.
Truffles Bistro
9.7 km
Sophisticated yet cozy, Truffles Bistro in Dumfries serves exquisite local and international dishes in an inviting atmosphere.
La Dolce Vita
9.8 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Dumfries at La Dolce Vita, a charming and inclusive dining destination.
Home Restaurant
9.8 km
A cozy family-run restaurant in Dumfries serving creative, locally sourced Mediterranean-inspired dishes with heartfelt hospitality.
The Corner Eatery and Bar Store
9.8 km
A vibrant eatery in Dumfries serving fresh, homemade British cuisine with a welcoming atmosphere and a charming beer garden.
The Hitching Post - DG1 2EQ
9.8 km
Casual American barbecue and grill in Dumfries with a standout gluten-free menu and hearty, authentic flavors.
Ivanos Italian Food
9.9 km
Casual Italian takeaway and pizza delivery in Dumfries, serving authentic flavors with a friendly local touch.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Vintage On The Nith
3.9 km
Discover timeless vintage treasures and mid-century antiques in the scenic riverside village of Glencaple, Dumfries.
Handmade at Helen's
7.7 km
Discover unique handmade crafts and local artistry at Handmade at Helen's, Dumfries’ charming Saturday-only craft shop in The Crichton.
Timeless Galloway Crafts
8.6 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and local artistry at Timeless Galloway Crafts, a Dumfries gem celebrating heritage and creativity.
Plum Boutique
9.5 km
Independent women-owned fashion boutique in Dumfries offering curated, sustainable wardrobe staples and seasonal styles with a personal touch.
The Fragrance Shop
9.7 km
Discover affordable luxury perfumes and beauty essentials at The Fragrance Shop, Dumfries’ premier scent destination in the Lorebourne Centre.
Loreburne Shopping Centre
9.7 km
A vibrant indoor shopping destination in the heart of Dumfries, blending high street brands with local charm and convenient amenities.
Bonmarché
9.7 km
Affordable and stylish ladies' fashion in the heart of Dumfries, with sizes 10-28 and expert styling advice.
Mountain Warehouse Dumfries
9.8 km
Your go-to store in Dumfries for quality outdoor clothing and gear at moderate prices, catering to adventurers of all ages and skill levels.
Circle Vintage
9.8 km
Explore the charm of Circle Vintage in Dumfries, your destination for unique and timeless fashion finds that celebrate the beauty of the past.
Think Something Different
9.8 km
Discover unique gifts and specialty products at Think Something Different, Dumfries’ go-to shop for eclectic finds and friendly service.
Flourish
9.8 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and local art at Flourish, Dumfries’ vibrant gift shop and creative studio on High Street.
La Maison Home & Gifts
9.9 km
Discover unique homewares and gifts with a personal touch at La Maison, Dumfries’ boutique of curated elegance and local charm.
The Treasure Trove Dumfries
9.9 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts and artisan treasures in the heart of Dumfries at The Treasure Trove.
ALTERNATIVE CENTRE(DUMFRIES)
10.0 km
Discover unique local crafts and memorable gifts at Dumfries’ welcoming Alternative Centre on Queensberry Street.
The Range, Dumfries
10.0 km
A versatile home and garden store in Dumfries offering extensive products for every lifestyle and living space.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Normandy
8.9 km
A welcoming and relaxed pub in Dumfries known for friendly service and a cozy atmosphere.
Troqueer Arms
9.2 km
A welcoming traditional pub in Dumfries offering great drinks, live music, and authentic Scottish charm at an affordable price.
The Riverside Bar
9.3 km
A friendly riverside pub in Dumfries offering diverse craft beers, scenic views, and a relaxed atmosphere beside Dock Park.
Greens Sports Bar
9.4 km
Lively sports bar in Dumfries with big screens, great drinks, pool tables, and a welcoming community vibe for fans and locals alike.
The Lantern
9.5 km
A friendly, dog-welcoming pub in Dumfries offering affordable drinks, live music, and a lively beer garden in a warm, traditional setting.
Coach & Horses Inn
9.7 km
Historic 1801 pub in Dumfries offering authentic Scottish charm, quality cask ales, and lively live music in a welcoming atmosphere.
Devorgilla Lounge Bar
9.8 km
A cozy, dog-friendly lounge bar in Dumfries offering friendly service, relaxed vibes, and affordable drinks in the heart of Market Square.
The Queensberry
9.8 km
A bright, comfortable bar and hotel in central Dumfries offering relaxed Scottish hospitality and cozy accommodation.
The Stag Bar
9.8 km
A cozy, friendly pub in Dumfries’ town centre offering craft ales and a welcoming atmosphere near the historic Midsteeple.
The Barrel
9.8 km
A friendly, traditional pub in Dumfries offering quality pints and a lively, welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Salutation Inn
9.8 km
A friendly, historic pub in Dumfries Market Square known for excellent pints and a welcoming atmosphere.
Dickies Bar
9.8 km
Experience warm Scottish hospitality and local craft beers in the cozy, lively setting of Dickies Bar in Dumfries.
The Imperial
9.9 km
A friendly, fair-priced bar in the heart of Dumfries, perfect for relaxed socializing and local vibes.
Chancers Night Club
9.9 km
Experience Dumfries nightlife at Chancers Night Club, where vibrant music and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable nights.
The Dougie Arms
9.9 km
A cosy, welcoming pub in Dumfries known for its diverse ales, friendly atmosphere, and inclusive community spirit.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Railway Social Club
9.9 km
A friendly, community-focused social club in Dumfries offering affordable drinks, lively events, and a welcoming atmosphere near the town centre.
Black Box Music Institute
44.4 km
An intimate old-style nightclub and cultural hub in Carlisle offering live music, festivals, and art exhibitions in a vibrant setting.
Carlisle R A O B Club
44.5 km
Historic social club in Carlisle offering lively events and a welcoming atmosphere rooted in the Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes tradition.
Club Britannia
44.8 km
A vibrant social club in Carlisle offering live music, friendly vibes, and affordable drinks in a smart, welcoming setting.
Secret Carlisle
45.1 km
Experience energetic nights and vibrant music at Secret Carlisle, the city centre nightclub where Carlisle’s historic charm meets modern nightlife.
Ramblers Bar and the Candleroom
64.7 km
Discover the charm of Ramblers Bar and the Candleroom, a delightful pub and restaurant offering local culinary delights in the heart of Ullswater.
The loose moose
65.7 km
A lively and welcoming nightclub in Penrith offering cocktails, music, and community spirit in the heart of Cumbria’s Eden District.
The Warehouse
65.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Warehouse in Penrith, offering themed parties, great music, and a lively atmosphere perfect for socializing.
Penrith Conservative Club
65.9 km
Discover the vibrant community spirit and affordable fun at Penrith Conservative Club, a welcoming hub in the heart of Penrith.
Square One
71.9 km
Vibrant Hawick nightclub with dynamic music floors and a welcoming atmosphere at the heart of Drumlanrig Square.
Base Nightclub
72.3 km
Experience Hawick’s energetic nightlife at Base Nightclub, where vibrant music and lively crowds create unforgettable Friday nights.
The Border Club
72.6 km
Experience the vibrant local culture at The Border Club, a friendly social hub in Hawick, Scotland, perfect for travelers seeking community spirit.
The Lily Bar
74.3 km
Experience the perfect blend of vibrant bar atmosphere and exquisite dining at The Lily Bar in Ambleside, a hidden gem in the heart of the Lake District.
Queens Head, Troutbeck
76.9 km
Historic Lake District pub and inn offering local cuisine, cosy rooms, and stunning Troutbeck Valley views in a welcoming village setting.
secret bridge
77.3 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and lively music at Secret Bridge, Milburn’s premier nightclub near Penrith in the scenic Eden District.
