TWO historic Galloway sites will reopen next week for the spring and summer season.
Dundrennan Abbey and Whithorn Priory and Museum will both reopen to visitors on Tuesday April 1.
The Abbey, founded in 1142, holds some of the best early Gothic architecture in Scotland. The Abbey also welcomed Mary, Queen of Scots in 1568 and is where she spent her last hours in the country.
It will be open daily from 10 am – 4.30 pm until September 30.
Visitors to Whithorn Priory and Museum will be able to access the ruined nave of the cathedral church and the upper parts of the crypt. Temporary restrictions remain in place to the internal crypt and Lady Chapel areas. Whithorn Priory and Museum will be open from 11 am – 4 pm Sundays – Fridays until October 31.
Whilst access is restricted at a number of properties in the Dumfries and Galloway area due to safety concerns, Historic Environment Scotland (HES) is progressing inspections and implementing measures to enable reopening or increased access.
At Threave Castle, boat access to the island and castle grounds will resume this spring and at Sweetheart Abbey, there will be increased access to the nave in the coming weeks.
The grounds and shop at MacLellan’s Castle will also reopen for the summer season as well as the grounds and museum at Glenluce Abbey.
Craig Mearns, from HES, said: “The start of the new visitor season is always exciting. As the weather warms up, there’s no better time to step outside, experience Scotland’s natural beauty and get a closer look at our past. With castles, palaces, priories and brochs all reopening, everyone will find an aspect of Scottish heritage to enjoy.
“These sites are part of Scotland’s history and offer an incredible range of experience and understanding. Our monuments include safe havens for key historical figures, strategic fortresses, Hanoverian munitions factories and sites of ceremonial importance to ancient tribes. Each place tells a unique story, and we look forward to sharing them with people from across the world.”
