The Abbey Deer in the Vale of St. Mary near Old Deer, was founded as a Cisterian monastry around 1219 by William Comyn the Earl of Buchan. Now enclosed within a perimeter wall, the ruins are open to visitors all year round and give a insight into the lives of the monks who lived there hundreds of years ago - with a clear indication of the original layout being evident by the remains. Deer Abbey is situated in rolling Aberdeenshire countryside, surrounded by typical tree-peaked small hills; ideal for family outings with freedom for children to explore this unique slice of Scottish history.

William Comyn would probably have had two reasons for establishing the abbey at Deer - The monks at this time were very learned and he probably felt that they could do much to improve Buchan and probably, like most people of the Middle Ages, he would have had a firm belief in Heaven and Hell. If he gave land for an abbey then the monks would pray for his soul and ensure his place in Heaven.