From overgrown ruins to magnificent cathedrals, Scotland has something for all aficionados of history, architecture and faith when it comes to the churches on display here. Some like Mackintosh Church in Glasgow are famous for being designed by legendary architects like Charles Rennie Mackintosh.
Others, like St Giles’ Cathedral in the historic Scottish capital of Edinburgh, have recently dominated headlines for acting as the site where Queen Elizabeth II lay at rest while her body was in Scotland after passing away in Balmoral.
The BBC tells us that the “history of Christianity in Scotland goes back to 400 CE” and so these houses of worship scattered across the country represent a prominent aspect of our Scottish heritage. That said, here are 21 incredible churches in Scotland that were voted in by our Scotsman readers, we hope you enjoy them.
Disclaimer: the list is entitled “Scottish churches” but some liberties may have been taken as to what falls under this term e.g., ruins.
17. Dunblane Cathedral
This cathedral is the larger of two parish churches (under Church of Scotland) serving in Dunblane which is nearby Stirling in central Scotland. Historic Environment Scotland suggests that the name “Dunblane” may be derived from the site’s use by monks from St Blane’s. Photo: John Mason on Flickr
18. Cathedral of the Isles
The Cathedral of the Isles rests on the edge of the town of Millport which is the main settlement on the Isle of Cumbrae. Construction of the building ended in 1849 before it then opened in 1851 as a collegiate church. Photo: John McLeish on Geograph
19. Brechin Cathedral
The cathedral can be found in the heart of the picturesque town of Brechin in Angus. Visit Angus reports: “The cathedral was originally dedicated to the Holy Trinity and this is commemorated in the Coat of Arms of the town which has a gold shield with three red rays converging at a point near the base.” Photo: via WikiCommons
20. Dornoch Cathedral
It was a former Roman Catholic cathedral which can be found in Dornoch, a small Sutherland town in the Scottish Highlands. Visit Dornoch reports: “Dornoch Cathedral's first service was held in 1239 and it continues today as a parish church.” Photo: John Haslam on Flickr