Pencaitland Parish Church
Denomination: Church of Scotland
Address: , Pencaitland , EH34 5EZ
Local Authority: East Lothian
Listing: A
Church Website
Church Overview
Consecrated in 1242, the foundations of the current church may date to then, with fragments of reused masonry in the walls. The present building is mainly of the 16th or 17th century and consists of a nave, with a gallery at the west end, and two aisles on the north side, the older called the Winton Aisle and the other the Saltoun Aisle.
Striking tower at western end is square for most its height, before becoming octagonal near the top. Used historically as both a belfry and a doocot. Polygonal 19th century pulpit, possibly 17th century front row pew of the Saltoun Aisle. 1889 organ by Peter Connacher of Huddersfield, beautifully stencilled pipes. Windows by C.E. Kempe and Guthrie & Wells.
Kirkyard and external walls adorned with many interesting 17th and 18th century memorials, depicting trades and rich with memento mori symbols. A chain, to which a punishment “joug collar” was once attached, can be seen on the kirk wall, near external stair to loft. Also to be seen adjacent to the kirkyard is the renovated carriage house, stables, harness room and cottage.
Services
Sunday: 10.45 am (tea and coffee in the carriage house afterwards)
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.