Joe Gilhooley Photography   Newbattle Abbey , Maiden Bridge and Grotto Bridge   Tuesday 29th June 2021. First visit to photograph Newbattle Abbey College. Also stone Maiden Bridge and The wooden Grotto Bridge. Newbattle Abbey, a place with a fascinating story. Founded as a Cistercian Monastery in 1140 by King David I, it became the Kerr family home in the 16th century, and an adult residential college in 1937. The army requisitioned Newbattle during World War 2, and it opened its doors as a college again in 1950. The stone Maiden Bridge is a single-arched bridge rising to a height of 23' above the River South Esk and 15' wide. It probably dates from the late 15th c In the spring of 1320, it is believed the most famous document in Scotland's history was devised, composed and drafted at Newbattle Abbey: the Declaration of Arbroath. This iconic text is seen by many as the founding document of the nation. The final production was then sent from Arbroath to the Pope in France. The wooden Grotto Bridge , also over the River South Esk was installed as a Bailey bridge in the 1940’s by the Army when they occupied the estate and site. other latest photograph links Maiden Bridge , Newbattle Abbey   Maiden Bridge , Newbattle Abbey   Maiden Bridge , Newbattle Abbey   Maiden Bridge , Newbattle Abbey   Maiden Bridge , Newbattle Abbey   Newbattle Abbey College   Newbattle Abbey College   Newbattle Abbey College   Newbattle Abbey College - rear   Newbattle Abbey College - rear   Newbattle Abbey College - rear   Newbattle Abbey College - rear   Newbattle Abbey College - rear   Newbattle Abbey College - Grotto Bridge   Newbattle Abbey College - Grotto Bridge   back to the top