Church Overview

Dalmeny Kirk or St Cuthbert’s Kirk is the most complete example of Romanesque architecture in Scotland. The core of the building is believed to date from around 1130, with 17th-century additions and alterations and substantial rebuilding work carried out in 1937.

It possesses a superb medieval south doorway, its arch stones elaborately carved with animals, figures and grotesque heads. Above that is a blind arcade of interlocking round-headed arches. Inside, the original nave, chancel and apse are preserved, with crisp carving of the chancel arch and the ribs of the chancel ceiling.

Geometric designs give lightness to the solid structure and the creamy stone a warmth to the ambiance. The Rosebery Aisle was added to the north in 1671. The church was sensitively restored by Peter MacGregor Chalmers in the early 20th century. Various mason’s marks can be seen throughout the building.

Its ornate wooden pulpit, created by H.O. Tarbolton in 1928, is decorated with creature capitals representing the four Evangelists. In front of this is the stone font designed in a medieval styling by Ian G Lindsay in 1950. The Lammermuir pipe organ was installed 1984 and the kirkyard outside contains a variety of interesting historic grave markers.

Dalmeny’s congregation is now linked with that of nearby Queensferry Church, check the church’s own website for details of special services and events.

Services

Sundays at 11.15am with tea and coffee served in St Cuthbert Hall afterwards

Opening Arrangements

Open April to September, Sunday 2.00-4.30pm or key from Mrs Brown, 6 Main Street, Dalmeny

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.