St Vigeans Church
13 September 2025 (10:00 - 16:00) 14 September 2025 (13:30 - 16:00) The historic and picturesque church at St Vigeans stands on a prominent natural kaim in the centre of the small hamlet. The red sandstone used for its construction complements the row of attractively restored traditional cottages that skirt the foot of the mound. The 12th century church was consecrated in 1242. Nothing is known about previous buildings however evidence indicates that St Vigeans has been an important site of Christian worship for over 1300 years. Before Christianity came to St Vigeans, the site was of importance to the Picts. This is evidenced by the large number of significant Pictish stones that have been found in the village and are now expertly displayed in the nearby museum. The 12th century church has undergone a large number of changes over the centuries. It was extended in the 13th century and again in the 15th before a major restoration and extension was carried out in the early 1870s. Dr Duke, who was appointed minister in 1859, realised the qualities of the building and the deterioration in its fabric. He set about a sympathetic restoration scheme which was completed in 1872, with several pieces of carved stone found in the fabric of the building. The chancel apse and the second north aisle were added. Sir R. Rowand Anderson was the architect engaged to carry out the work and is largely responsible for the building we can all enjoy today. Visitors may find the following aspects of the building interesting: Booking is not required. The church is accessible except for those who are entirely dependent on a wheelchair. There are two tarmac paths with handrails leading to steps at the front of the church. There are disabled toilets in both the nearby Parish Hall and in the Church for any visitors who are able to access the building. Water bottles can be filled up. Baby changing areas are available.
Address
St Vigeans, Arbroath, DD11 4RB