"Saddell Abbey" Campbeltown Things to Do Tip by nickandchris

The scant ruins of Saddell Abbey are beautifully located in the tiny settlement of Saddell. There is free admission and free parking.
The abbey was founded in 1160 by King Somerled and completed by his son Reginald. Monks were shipped in from Mellifont in Ireland to live the Cistercian life-stlye at the abbey.
King Somerled, who founded the Lordship of the Isles, is buried at the Abbey.

Saddell was the home of Celtic stone carving and in a purpose made building at the abbey are 11 grave slabs all with different carvings, some clearer than others. Depisted are knights, swords, otters, ships and other animals and fish.
We were the only visitors and the tranquillity of the place was very evident. The surrounding countryside was glorious but you wonder whether the hard working monks ever had time to appreciate their surroundings.

Address: Saddell, Kintyre
Directions: Five miles south of Carradale on the east coast of the peninsula.