DRYBURGH ABBEY
Read moreFounded in 1150, Dryburgh Abbey did not reach the levels of wealth of its neighbours, Melrose, Kelso and Jedburgh. Nevertheless, she was just as overwhelmed by the wars. In 1322, as King Edward II's army withdrew south, the soldiers set fire to it. It was one of three fires in his history. It remains a bewitching ruin. The cloister and some of the painted walls have survived admirably through the ages, but perhaps the main attraction is the tomb of Sir Walter Scott, which lies here not far from his sumptuous home.
MELROSE ABBEY
Read moreFounded in 1136 by Cistercian monks, Melrose Abbey was heavily damaged by the English troops of Richard II in 1385. It was then completely rebuilt and most of the visible remains date from this period. Outside, some of the sculptures are very surprising, like goblin cooks and a pig playing the bagpipes. Inside, several Scottish kings are buried, like Alexander II. Above all, it contains the heart of Robert the Bruce, making it an important place of pilgrimage in the country.