Church Overview

The built fabric and interior of this remarkable medieval church have undergone extensive alterations and additions on at least three know occasions – in 1687, 1822 and 1883 – the last of which were overseen by prominent Scottish Victorian architect Robert Rowand Anderson. Its striking tower, which contained a doocot, was reduced in size during the 17th century renovations, when the birdcage belfry was added. The bell, still in use today, is inscribed “FOR KIRKLISTON SOLI DE GLORIA ANNO 1684” and was cast by eminent bellmaker John Meikle of Edinburgh.

The south elevation of the nave contains a blocked-up Romanesque doorway, with an ornate carved stone moulding surround which has become a very popular back drop for photographs today. While, the south doorway possesses a lintel stone inscribed “VIRTVTE.DECET.NON.SANGVINE NITI” which translates as “It is better to trust in virtue, not in lineage”. This was built up during the 1822 alterations when an aisle was added on the north side of the nave.

The interior dates from the late 19th century reconfiguration and contains a gallery on three sides with box pews beneath. The pulpit dates from 1860 and was designed by David Rhind. There are only a small number of stained glass windows, including two very striking modern pieces. The pipe organ was installed by Ingram & Co of Edinburgh in 1925, when it was installed initially downstairs before being relocated to its current home in the west organ-loft. On the sanctuary wall visitors can also see an original framed copy of the 1643 Solemn League and Covenant and on a window sill a model of the church as it appeared in the latter half of the 19th century.

In the early 19th century a small watchhouse was built in the graveyard as a deterrent to body-snatchers plying their grisly trade on the recently deceased remains of Kirkliston’s dead. The graveyard also contains many interesting memorials, with the earliest identifiable stone dating to 1529. There are numerous carved 18th century “Memento Mori” monuments, most notable among them is one with two skeletons depicted wearing spectacles.

Across the village square from the medieval Parish Church is a 19th century church built for the Free Church and now known as the Thomas Chalmers Church Centre. Originally a simple box shaped chapel, in 1880 renowned Scottish architect Hippolyte Blanc gave it its landmark spire. The church became a United Free Church congregation in 1900 and in 1929 the denomination united once more with the Church of Scotland. The two congregations formally united in 1941 and today the Thomas Chalmers Church Centre forms the church halls for the Kirkliston Parish congregation and hosts many community events and local organisations. 

Services

Sundays at 10am

Opening Arrangements

Open by arrangement

Disclaimer

The information about churches in Scotland’s Churches Scheme has been provided by the congregations or taken from the Historic Scotland list and published sources, in particular, the Buildings of Scotland volumes and the RIAS Illustrated Architectural Guides. To contact this specific church please complete the Contact this Church form above. The information is not authoritative; please contact Scotland’s Churches Trust to let us know of any errors or omissions.