Deer Abbey
Near Mintlaw, Aberdeenshire
Open today
Deer Abbey hero image gallery
Experience the tranquil ruins of a Cistercian monastery founded in 1219.
For more than 300 years, Deer Abbey was home to Cistercian monks. They seem to have lived a quiet and contemplative life until the Protestant Reformation of 1560 brought the abbey’s spiritual use to a close.
The abbey is associated with the Book of Deer, which was probably kept in the abbey’s library. This Gospel book was written around AD 900 but contains many additions from around 200 years later. These additions are the oldest body of Gaelic writing in Scotland.
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Membership
Ideal for regular visitors and heritage supporters
Unlimited annual pass for all ticketed sites plus daytime events
- Unlimited annual pass for all ticketed sites plus daytime events
- Discount in our shops and cafés (on site and online)
- Historic Scotland magazine delivered to your door
- Free or discounted entry to sites in England, Wales and the Isle of Man
Explorer Pass
Perfect for short-term trips and sightseeing
Valid for 14 consecutive days
- Valid for 14 consecutive days
- Entry to all ticketed sites, including Edinburgh Castle, Stirling Castle and Urquhart Castle
- 20% discount on audio guides at Edinburgh Castle, Stirling Castle and Glasgow Cathedral
- Guaranteed entry when you pre-book online