Paisley Abbey
A 12th-century Catholic abbey, cradle of the Stewart dynasty, and burial site of Scottish royalty, blending Romanesque and Gothic styles.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Paisley Abbey
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 12th-century Catholic abbey, cradle of the Stewart dynasty, and burial site of Scottish royalty, blending Romanesque and Gothic styles.
"This is a place where the glory of God and the love of people come together."
Free Entry & Donations
Entry to Paisley Abbey is free, but donations are welcome to help with its upkeep. :heart:
Guided Tours for Depth
Consider a guided tour for a richer understanding of the Abbey's extensive history and hidden gems. :walking:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Barochan Cross
Inside the Abbey
An ancient Celtic cross, thought to date back to the 9th century, offering a glimpse into early Christian Scotland.
Royal Burial Site
Within the Abbey
Discover the final resting place of Scottish royalty, including Robert III and Marjorie Bruce, mother of Robert II.
Architectural Grandeur
Exterior and Interior
Marvel at the blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles, a testament to centuries of construction and renovation.
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Planning Your Visit
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Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Entry & Donations
Entry to Paisley Abbey is free, but donations are welcome to help with its upkeep. :heart:
Guided Tours for Depth
Consider a guided tour for a richer understanding of the Abbey's extensive history and hidden gems. :walking:
Check Event Schedule
The Abbey hosts various events, from musical performances to services. Check their schedule before visiting. 
Explore the Tea Room
A nice tea room is available, offering refreshments and a place to relax after your visit. :tea:
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Entry & Donations
Entry to Paisley Abbey is free, but donations are welcome to help with its upkeep. :heart:
Guided Tours for Depth
Consider a guided tour for a richer understanding of the Abbey's extensive history and hidden gems. :walking:
Check Event Schedule
The Abbey hosts various events, from musical performances to services. Check their schedule before visiting.
Explore the Tea Room
A nice tea room is available, offering refreshments and a place to relax after your visit. :tea:
Unique Gargoyles
Keep an eye out for the 'alien gargoyle' on the upper tier – a quirky detail amidst the history. :alien:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Paisley Abbey for its profound history, stunning architecture, and the welcoming nature of its staff. Many highlight the spiritual atmosphere and the unique details, such as the Barochan Cross and the 'alien gargoyle.' While some note that Paisley itself may lack modern attractions, the Abbey is universally recommended as a worthwhile destination for its historical and cultural significance.
"We loved it. We went to see the Barochan Cross but there is so much wonderful history. Paisley Abbey is a historic parish church of the Church of Scotland, located on the east bank of the White Cart Water in the center of Paisley, Renfrewshire, Scotland—about 7 miles (11 km) west of Glasgow. Recognized as the “cradle of the Royal House of Stewart,” it blends Romanesque and Gothic architecture.
Established around 1163 by Walter FitzAlan, the first High Steward of Scotland, as a Cluniac priory on the site of a 6th-century Celtic church founded by St. Mirin. Under royal patronage, the abbey grew wealthy through trade with European centers. It was a center of learning; Scottish hero William Wallace is believed to have been educated there in the late 13th century. There are several royal burials in the church, including Robert III.
The staff are wonderful. They were patient in detailing the above history and pointing out interesting highlights, including the alien gargoyle on the upper tier.
Highly recommended."
Shane Giddings
"Paisley, Abbey is a must see if you’re into seeing old churches and Abbeys. It’s a little out of town but well worth the trip. The exterior and interior are spectacular and is awe inspiring as any I’ve seen, having additions and rebuilds. And it is not overrun with tourists. I took the guided tour which was wonderful because nobody else showed up but me, the guide was a wealth of information and a delight to speak with and informed me that they wish they had more visitors. They have a little coffee and souvenir shop. Take some time and visit this wonderful old Abbey."
Don B Leask
"“This is a place where the glory of God and the love of people come together. The spiritual atmosphere of the Abbey brings deep peace to the heart, and the brothers and sisters in Christ welcome you with open arms and loving hearts.
‘Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honour one another above yourselves.’ (Romans 12:10)”"
Matthew Dehghani
What People Like
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Paisley Abbey is located in the center of Paisley, Renfrewshire, about 7 miles west of Glasgow. It's easily accessible by public transport, with regular bus services and Paisley Gilmour Street train station nearby. If driving, check for local parking options.
While specific parking details can vary, there are typically parking facilities available in Paisley town center. It's advisable to check local signage or use a parking app for the most up-to-date information.
Paisley is about a 7-mile journey from Glasgow. While a long walk, it's feasible for keen hikers. Public transport, such as trains or buses, is a more practical option for most visitors traveling from Glasgow.
The most convenient public transport options are local buses that stop in Paisley town center, or by train to Paisley Gilmour Street station, which is a short walk from the Abbey.
Paisley Abbey is a historic building, and while efforts are made for accessibility, some areas may present challenges. It's recommended to contact the Abbey directly for specific accessibility information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Paisley Abbey is free. However, donations are gratefully accepted to help maintain this historic site.
Opening hours can vary, especially due to services and events. It's best to check the official Paisley Abbey website for the most current opening times before your visit.
No, tickets are not required for general entry to Paisley Abbey as it is free to visit. However, for specific events or tours, booking might be necessary.
Yes, Paisley Abbey holds regular services. You can find their service schedule on their official website if you wish to attend.
Yes, Paisley Abbey has a small shop where you can purchase souvenirs and gifts.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Founded around 1163 by Walter FitzAlan, Paisley Abbey was a Cluniac priory on the site of a 6th-century Celtic church. It became a wealthy and influential site, a center of learning, and is known as the 'cradle of the Royal House of Stewart'. +2
Paisley Abbey is the burial place of several Scottish royals, including Robert III and Marjorie Bruce, mother of Robert II.
Legend suggests that the Scottish hero William Wallace may have received his education at Paisley Abbey in the late 13th century.
The Barochan Cross is an ancient Celtic cross, believed to date from the 9th century, that is now housed within Paisley Abbey.
Visitors often point out the unique 'alien gargoyle' on the upper tier, a quirky detail amidst the historical significance.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Yes, Paisley Abbey has a nice tea room where visitors can enjoy refreshments and relax.
Paisley town center, where the Abbey is located, offers various dining options. The Anchor at The Abbey is a nearby establishment serving food daily.
While there isn't specific information on bringing outside food, it's generally best to consume your own food outside the Abbey or in designated areas, and enjoy the offerings at the on-site tea room.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted inside Paisley Abbey for personal use, but it's always a good idea to be respectful of ongoing services or events.
The exterior architecture, especially the intricate stonework and towers, offers great photo opportunities. Inside, the stained glass windows and the Barochan Cross are also popular subjects.
Drone usage is typically restricted in sensitive historical and public areas. It's advisable to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permissions before flying a drone near Paisley Abbey.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
⛪ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
🎵 Music Lovers
+2 You might even be lucky enough to experience a performance in this historically resonant space, or discover recordings made here by artists like Simple Minds. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Rich History of Paisley Abbey
+1 Under royal patronage, the Abbey flourished, becoming a significant religious, cultural, and educational center in medieval Scotland. Its wealth grew through trade with European centers, solidifying its importance. The Abbey's historical significance is further cemented by its connection to Scottish heroes and royalty. It is famously known as the 'cradle of the Royal House of Stewart,' with several royal burials within its walls, including King Robert III and Marjorie Bruce, mother of King Robert II.
Over the centuries, Paisley Abbey has witnessed significant historical events, including fires and wars, and has undergone various additions and rebuilds, blending Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles.
Architectural Marvels and Unique Details
Inside, the Abbey continues to impress with its grand nave, beautiful stained-glass windows, and the serene atmosphere that pervades the space.
Among the many historical features, the Barochan Cross stands out as a particularly ancient and significant artifact. This Celtic cross, believed to date from the 9th century, offers a rare glimpse into Scotland's early Christian heritage. A more quirky and often-mentioned detail is the presence of a unique 'alien gargoyle' on the upper tier of the Abbey. This unexpected and somewhat humorous carving adds a touch of intrigue and personality to the otherwise solemn historical structure, making it a point of interest for many visitors.
Paisley Abbey in the Arts and Culture
+2 Artists and musicians have utilized the Abbey's grandeur to create memorable live recordings and concerts, enhancing the spiritual and aesthetic experience for audiences. The Abbey's unique atmosphere has resonated with musicians, leading to notable live recordings. For instance, the band Simple Minds recorded parts of their album 'New Gold Dream' live within the Abbey, capturing its resonant beauty in their music.
+1 This integration of contemporary art within a historic sacred space highlights the Abbey's enduring relevance and its ability to connect with modern audiences through diverse cultural expressions.
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