Scottish Heritage Group visit to Newbattle Abbey College - Tuesday 16th September
Before the tour the group gathered at the Paper Mill restaurant in Lasswade for a relaxing lunch. Overlooking the River Esk the setting was peaceful and inviting and the food was excellent. Conversation flowed easily and the warm atmosphere set the tone for the afternoon ahead.
Our visit to Newbattle Abbey College was guided by Margaret - some may remember her from our Rosslyn Chapel tour. Once again she impressed us with her depth of knowledge and engaging storytelling. Her insights brought the abbey’s history vividly to life, making for a memorable and enriching experience.
Founded in 1140 as a Cistercian monastery, Newbattle Abbey has witnessed centuries of Scottish history - from early coal mining to the drafting of the Declaration of Arbroath. Following the Reformation it became a stately home for the Kerr family, later the Marquesses of Lothian. In 1937 the estate was gifted to the nation and transformed into a residential college, offering adult education in a setting steeped in heritage.
After the tour some members took time to explore the gardens. Extensive and thoughtfully laid out, they offered a peaceful stroll - even if a little bare in places with nature quietly preparing for winter.
Wartime Huts at Newbattle Abbey
During World War II Newbattle Abbey became a military training centre for ATS and RAMC recruits. To house up to 2,000 trainees dozens of timber huts were built across the grounds, serving as dormitories, classrooms and mess halls. Around two dozen still stand today - weathered reminders of the resilience and duty of those who trained there.
Private Chapel: The Chapel was originally the vaulted undercroft of the 14th century Cistercian monastery and reflects its medieval origins - part of the monastery's kitchen was converted into a private chapel in the late 19th century.
Ceiling Detail: The drawing room showcases an Italianate ceiling painted by Thomas Bonnar around the 1870s
