The Former Pitsligo Parish Kirk

The first Pitsligo Kirk at Peathill was erected by the first Lord Pitsligo in 1634. In 1890 a new Pitsligo parish kirk was built to the design of Aberdeen architect A. Marshall Mackenzie.

The Laird’s Loft was transferred from the old kirk to the new, along with several carved panels which were incorporated in the pulpit.

Peathill Kirkyard surrounding the now-roofless old kirk has an excellent collection of grave stones dating from the mid-seventeenth century. These include the pair of kilted angels (far left), the stone to Lord Pitsligo (left-middle) and the pseudo-heraldic stone shown on the (near left).

Former Kirk Proposal

The church was last used for worship in 1997, and came into the ownership of the Pitsligo Castle Trust in 2002.

The Pitsligo Castle Trust intends to turn the building into a centre for the study of the Jacobite period, and the heraldry of Scotland. This will be the first of its kind in Scotland.

Between 1688 and 1788 Jacobitism was a subject of love or hate which divided families in Scotland, influenced religious practice, and caused bloodshed. A new study and activity centre will be established for school children and adults across the north-east and for the enjoyment of visitors and tourists.

Scottish heraldry will be explained using original material; examples of coats of arms from buildings, furniture, and the decorative arts will show the great wealth of Scotland’s heraldic heritage. The control of heraldry and the role of modern heralds will be explained, and there will also be a heraldic library available for research and reference.

To achieve this and insure minimal impact on the present appearance and character of the Former Pitsligo Parish Kirk a new laigh or undercroft will be created to provide space for necessary support services.