The Abbot’s Tower

discover the secret!

The Abbot’s Tower is a luxury B&B within a restored 16th Century Tower House.

Built in c. 1580 during the Scottish Reformation and once occupied by the last Abbot of the famous Sweetheart Abbey. The ruins of the Abbey are open to the public and are a short walk from the Tower. The pretty conservation village of New Abbey with its pub, shop, corn mill and tea room is also a short walk away.

The Abbot’s Tower was built during a period of near anarchy in the borders between Scotland and England.  Heavily armed gangs roamed the countryside under the cover of darkness rustling, thieving, kidnapping and killing. By day they resorted to ransom, blackmail and protection rackets. During the first half of the century the Reformation was quickening in Scotland. Culminating in the country adopting a Calvinistic form of Protestantism as its national religion in 1560.

The Tower was once occupied by Gilbert Broun, the last abbot of nearby Sweetheart Abbey. A colourful character, Gilbert was famed for his vain attempts to turn the tide of the Reformation in Scotland. Sir Walter Scott romanticised the story by using Gilbert Broun as a model for the central character in his novel ‘The Abbot’. The Tower was built for defence, but also to be hidden. A secret place where Gilbert could continue his ministry without interference from the Crown.

The Abbot’s Tower has two original and glamorous suites. Both have their own unique charm, luxury and good deal of quirk. Each suite occupies just two guests and are not suitable for children.

The dungeon – a glamour filled suite with opulent bedroom. Well appointed en-suite bathroom (panelled bath with shower over). Private sitting room/library. Exclusive use of the Garden Room. Breakfast served in the Great Hall or Garden Room.

The abbot’s room – situated on the second floor of the Tower. Romantic and indulgent suite. With lavishly draped Jacobean four poster bed. Well appointed en-suite (walk in shower). Breakfast served in the Great Hall.

As current custodians of the Tower, we look forward to welcoming you.

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