Melrose Abbey was founded in 1136 by King David I as the first Cistercian house in Scotland, and at its peak was one of the wealthiest and most influential monasteries in the country. The current ruins date mostly from a 14th-century rebuild after Edward II of England burned the original; even partly ruined, the carved red sandstone is some of the finest medieval stonework in Britain — look out for the bagpipe-playing pig high on the southern wall, a piece of medieval whimsy hidden in plain sight.
The heart of Robert the Bruce is buried somewhere within the chapter house grounds, marked by a stone plaque. The abbey is run by Historic Environment Scotland; allow 90 minutes for the ruins and the small museum of carved fragments. Stay for the view of the Eildons from the cloister wall.