established c.1580
Sweetheart Abbey, founded by Lady Dervorgilla of Galloway in 1273
The Abbot’s Tower was built during a period of near anarchy in the borders between Scotland and England where heavily armed gangs roamed the countryside under the cover of darkness rustling, thieving, kidnapping and killing, and by day resorting 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’. It is understood that 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.
As current custodians of the Tower, we look forward to welcoming you.
Scott and Laura
“This is such a brilliant place to stay. A truly amazing Scottish castle experience. We stayed in the Abbot’s Room, beautiful 4 poster bed, luxurious linen, fantastic view from all windows. Very quiet which ensured a great nights sleep. The instant hot water shower was excellent as were the toiletries supplied and towels.”