Church Overview

There is believed to have been a church on this site since the 13th century, but the current building church was erected in 1795. Below the pediment of its delightful central bell-tower is located a curious panel which may have been reused from the nearby Roman Antonine Wall when the church was being rebuilt. Its carved inscription reads “Deo Optimo Maximo! P.F.S.Q.S MDCCXCV”. The words and numerals may be translated as “To God the best and greatest!” and “1795” while the letters most likely stand for “Patri Filio Spiritui Que Sancto” or “Glory be to the Father, to the Son and to Holy Spirit.” 

The interior of the kirk is rich with timberwork including the panelled central pulpit with sound board, timber dado panelling and panelled timber galleries on three sides supported on timber columns. These galleries are approached by external staircases on the building’s east and west walls, a rare occurrence so late in the 18th century.

The church stands at the end of a lovely walk from the centre of nearby Milngavie. Outside visitors will see an unusual octagonal watch house from 1828, built to deter graverobbers plying their grisly trade. The kirkyard also contains several interesting gravestones, including Archibald Bulloch from whom President Theodore Roosevelt and Eleanor Roosevelt descended. 

Services

Sundays at 12pm.

Opening Arrangements

Open Sunday 2.00-4.00pm, May to August or 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.