Kirkton of Dunnottar Parish Church
A serene, historic parish church near Dunnottar Castle, offering a peaceful escape with a beautifully maintained, ancient churchyard.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy quiet contemplation
Kirkton of Dunnottar Parish Church
Best Time
Enjoy quiet contemplation
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene, historic parish church near Dunnottar Castle, offering a peaceful escape with a beautifully maintained, ancient churchyard.
"A very special place that we have been back to many times... a pilgrimage in its own right."
🚶♂️ Explore the Churchyard
Wander through the historic churchyard; it's exceptionally well-kept and full of ancient gravestones.
📸 Capture the Lichen
The lichen-covered walls offer unique photographic opportunities, especially in soft light.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Churchyard
Kirkton of Dunnottar Parish Church grounds
Explore ancient gravestones and lichen-covered walls, a testament to centuries of history.
Lichen-Covered Architecture
Kirkton of Dunnottar Parish Church exterior
Admire the unique beauty of the church's stone facade, adorned with vibrant lichen.
A Place of Remembrance
Kirkton of Dunnottar Parish Church
Experience the profound sense of peace and history that resonates within this special venue.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
A Peaceful Pilgrimage
Beyond the Castle Walls
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♂️ Explore the Churchyard
Wander through the historic churchyard; it's exceptionally well-kept and full of ancient gravestones.
📸 Capture the Lichen
The lichen-covered walls offer unique photographic opportunities, especially in soft light.
💖 A Special Venue
Consider this church for significant life events; it holds deep meaning for many visitors.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♂️ Explore the Churchyard
Wander through the historic churchyard; it's exceptionally well-kept and full of ancient gravestones.
📸 Capture the Lichen
The lichen-covered walls offer unique photographic opportunities, especially in soft light.
💖 A Special Venue
Consider this church for significant life events; it holds deep meaning for many visitors.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Kirkton of Dunnottar Parish Church for its peaceful atmosphere and historic charm, particularly its well-maintained churchyard with ancient gravestones. Many describe it as a 'magical' and 'very special place' with a profound sense of history and tranquility, often returning multiple times.
"Beautiful church, married there in 1996, was married there on the same date immortalized by the movie 'back to the future; 26th oct. A magical church and a venue we visit everytime we travel across from Australia... A very special place that we have been back to many times in the 28 years of marriage, and expect many more happy years to follow.... Don't hesitate to see it... Jane, David and our 4 kids, who now have kids of their own.. we still make make the effort a pilgrimage in its own right.... Dunnotar holds a dear place in our hearts 🥰"
David Chapman
"Only visited the church yard which is very historic and interesting. It is very well kept, if not the best kept I've ever seen and looks very welcoming."
A.R
"A quiet peaceful place full of very old gravestones. And a beautiful lichen covered church"
robbinthebold
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The church is located near Dunnottar Castle, about 2 miles south of Stonehaven. It's accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Consider it a peaceful stop after visiting the castle.
Yes, it's very close to Dunnottar Castle, making it easy to combine a visit to both historic sites.
While possible, it's a bit of a walk. Public transport or a taxi from Stonehaven might be more convenient if you're not driving.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the churchyard and exterior is generally free. Access to the interior may depend on service times or specific arrangements.
The churchyard is usually accessible during daylight hours. For interior access, it's best to check for service schedules or contact local authorities.
Typically, there is no admission fee for visiting the church grounds. Donations are often welcomed to help with upkeep.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography inside may be restricted during services. It's always polite to ask or look for signage. The exterior and churchyard are great for photos.
Early morning or late afternoon light can be beautiful for capturing the lichen-covered stone and historic atmosphere.
🎫 💖 Special Occasions
Yes, it's a popular and meaningful venue for weddings, holding significant sentimental value for many couples.
Absolutely. The church and its churchyard are steeped in history, with many old gravestones and a palpable sense of the past.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Combine a visit with the nearby Dunnottar Castle for a more varied experience that might appeal more directly to younger attention spans. The church offers a peaceful interlude between more active explorations.
💖 Couples & Sentimental Visitors
For couples, it offers a serene and meaningful backdrop, whether for a wedding ceremony or simply a quiet moment of reflection on shared memories or future aspirations. The enduring nature of the church mirrors the lasting bonds it has witnessed.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historic Churchyard
Many visitors find the churchyard to be a place of deep peace and contemplation. It's a stark contrast to the more dramatic ruins of nearby Dunnottar Castle, offering a different, more intimate perspective on the region's history. The sense of continuity, with families returning over decades, underscores its enduring significance.
Architectural Charm
The church's architecture speaks to its long history, with elements likely dating back centuries. While specific architectural details might require a closer look, the overall impression is one of enduring simplicity and resilience. It stands as a quiet sentinel, a place of worship that has witnessed the ebb and flow of life in this coastal community for generations.
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