The abbey is situated in the valley of the Luce Water about 1 and 1/2 miles North West
of Glenluce Village off the A75 Dumfries to Stranraer road.

All New photographs taken 1st June 2004.

The Abbey is thought to have been founded within the last two decades of the 12th century (records are a little obscure before 1191) by Roland, Lord of Galloway whose grandfather was involved in the founding of Dundrennan Abbey.

The photograph on the right shows the interior of the Chapter House.

Thought to have been built for reasons of prestige, as much as for religion, the Lords of Galloway were very rich and powerful at this time.

The Cistercian Monks inhabiting the abbey created gardens and orchards said to be a wonder to behold. They are supposed to have called the area Vallis Lucis - Valley of Light but other writers suggest earlier roots to a Gaelic word - leud - meaning wide.

The people who possible gave the bay, glen and river its name settled on the sand dunes of the bay around 6000BC where many flint artifacts and antiquities have been found.

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Before reaching Glenluce Abbey (from Dumfries) there are many other acttractions other than old buildings, such as, Cream of Galloway (sign posted), near Gatehouse of Fleet, luxury dairy ice cream, nature trails, adventure playground and picnic barn.

Or for those that like things that glitter try the Gem Rock Museum, Creetown, off A75, take some money for the gift shop.

ernest.wilson@virgin.net