Sancta Maria Abbey, Nunraw

Sancta Maria Abbey (Nunraw Abbey) near Garvald is a working Trappist monastery in East Lothian, about 30 km east of Edinburgh. It was the first Cistercian house founded in Scotland since the Reformation of 1560 and remains one of the few active Cistercian monasteries in Britain.

How did Nunraw Abbey begin?

In 1946 a group of monks from Roscrea in Ireland took over the Nunraw estate in the Lammermuir foothills. Seven founding monks celebrated their first Mass there that February. The land already had a long past: local histories say nuns from Haddington founded a convent here around the 12th century, and in 1548 the Scottish Parliament met at the house to agree that the young Mary, Queen of Scots, should be sent to France.

The community first lived in the old manor while building a new monastery beside it. Architect Peter Whiston drew up the plans in 1952, the monks moved into the new buildings in 1969, and finishing work went on for years afterwards. The austere postwar complex is one of the more distinctive pieces of modern religious architecture in Scotland.

What can you see at Nunraw?

The main draw is the monastery itself, set against the Lammermuir Hills, and the abbey church where the monks sing the daily offices. Visitors can usually join prayers in the area open to the public. The enclosure is off limits: this is a home for the monks, not a museum.

The old estate has its own entries in the Historic Environment Scotland register. Nunraw House (Category A) grew around a 15th-century tower house, extended in 1863-4 in Scots baronial style by Brown and Wardrop. The dovecot is also Category A, and the north lodge and gate are Category B. The house has since been sold into private hands and has reverted to its older name, Nunraw Tower, so view it from the road only.

Can you stay at the abbey?

The monastery has traditionally welcomed guests for short retreats and quiet. Availability and house rules change, so contact the abbey directly before travelling (details at nunraw.org.uk and the order's site, ocso.org). The same goes for service times and any shop selling monastery products.

How do you get to Nunraw?

The abbey lies near Garvald village, a short drive from Haddington. The easiest route is by car from Edinburgh along the A1 to Haddington, then on narrow country roads. Public transport only reaches Haddington, so you will need a taxi for the final stretch. Traffic is light and the drive crosses attractive upland scenery.

When is the best time to visit?

Late spring and summer offer green hills and dry roads. Winter is windy and often misty, which suits the contemplative setting. In summer the Lammermuir Festival has staged concerts in the area, including past performances at the abbey.

Frequently asked questions

Is Nunraw Abbey still active? Yes. A Trappist community lives here following the Rule of St Benedict, with a life of silence, prayer and work.

Can I look around the monastery? The church and guest areas are open to visitors; the monastic enclosure is closed. Access to the old estate is limited because the house is privately owned.

Can I stay overnight? The abbey has traditionally hosted retreat guests. Ask the community about current arrangements and free dates.

How far is it from Edinburgh? About 30 km, or roughly 45 minutes by car.