Monday July 27th 2026
From Left To Right His Grace The Duke Of Roxburghe, First Minister John Swinney, Historic Environment Scotland CEO Katerina Brown, And Kelso Provost Gavin Horsburgh
Written by Local Democracy Reporter, Paul Kelly
First Minister John Swinney has described the reopening of Kelso Abbey as a “moment to savour”.
Mr Swinney joined community representatives from Kelso, including His Grace the Duke of Roxburghe, and conservation specialists from Historic Environment Scotland (HES) at last Friday’s reopening celebration.
The abbey is back in business after five years following the completion of essential conservation work by HES, which manages the site.
Kelso will celebrate its 900th anniversary in 2028, and HES is currently developing plans for anniversary celebrations in collaboration with stakeholders and local community groups.
Mr Swinney said: “Kelso Abbey is one of Scotland’s most impressive historic buildings.
“To see it reopen its doors before its 900th anniversary in 2028 was a moment to savour.
“The abbey will draw thousands of visitors into the Borders, supporting jobs and benefiting businesses by boosting visitor spend throughout the region.
“The Scottish Government’s Grant in Aid funding of Historic Environment Scotland enables their work to protect and conserve Scotland’s historic environment and Kelso Abbey shows exactly what that investment means in practice – not just for visitors, but for the communities who live alongside these remarkable places.”
Kelso Abbey will be open daily from 9.30am to 5pm. Visitors can find out more about the abbey and plan their visit at historicenvironment.scot. Please check the website for the latest information before travelling.
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