Pluscarden Abbey
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Overview
The original monastery was founded in 1230 by King Alexander II for monks of the Valliscaulian order from Burgundy, but it later became a Benedictine house. Monastic life was abandoned after the Reformation and the house passed through a succession of lay owners until it was bought by the third Marquess of Bute in 1898. His third son, Lord Colum-Crichton Stuart gave the monastery to the Benedictines of Prinknash Abbey near Gloucester, and monastic life was recommenced in 1948. Today there are about twenty monks who lead a life of prayer, study and manual work. The services in the Abbey church are sung in Latin with Gregorian chant and are all open to the public.
Ratings & awards
Green Tourism Gold
Features
- Opening Times
- Open all year
- Opening Times: Open all year, daily 4.30am-7.50pm. See website for special occasions
- Facilities
- Parking onsite
- Parking nearby
About the area
The largely undiscovered Moray coast offers miles of red sandstone cliffs that spill down to fine sandy beaches split by dramatic rocky headlands, and a chain of small towns, sleepy villages and fishing ports. The gentle breezes and warm sunshine of lazy summer days give the place a restful, relaxing air, and the evenings are a magical time too, with this part of Scotland renowned for its superb sunsets.
Nearby places to stay
View all (8)
Nearby places to stay
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Grant Arms Hotel
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Glenmorangie House
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Seafield Arms
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Nethybridge Hotel
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Huntly Castle Caravan Park
A quality parkland site within striking distance of the Speyside Malt Whisky Trail, the beautiful Moray coast and the Cairngorm Mountains. The park provides exceptional toilet facilitie...
