Aberdeenshire
**NEW FOR 2026**
Bennachie Parish Church at Monymusk is a remarkable Category A listed building with roots that stretch back to the earliest days of Christianity in north-east Scotland. While much of the present church is believed to date from the 12th century, the site has strong connections to an early Christian community established in the area during the 7th century. Restored between 1929 and 1932, the church was carefully returned to an approximation of its medieval appearance, creating the simple yet beautiful interior that visitors see today.
One of the church's most significant treasures is an 8th-century Class II Pictish stone, brought into the church in 1978. The stone features a large cross, a disc symbol and the rare "step" symbol, one of only a handful known in Scotland and believed to be associated with sanctuary boundaries. Visitors can also admire stained glass by Alexander Strachan, Gordon Webster and Vanessa Thom, including a striking window depicting the story of the church's foundation. Other highlights include a 17th-century Bible, historic memorials linked to the Grant family and the church's 17th-century clock tower.
In recent years, the church has faced challenges common to many historic places of worship. Following a period of uncertainty over its future, Monymusk Church remains an active part of the newly formed Bennachie Parish, continuing its long tradition of serving both the local community and visitors. In 2025, the church and its volunteers were recognised nationally when it reached the finals of the National Churches Trust Awards.
Today, Monymusk Parish Church continues to welcome visitors to explore a building shaped by centuries of faith, history and community life.
Activities:
- Guided tours of the historic church interior
- View the 8th-century Class II Pictish stone
- Discover stained glass by Alexander Strachan, Gordon Webster and Vanessa Thom
- See the 17th-century Bible and historic memorials
- Guided tour of the church tower and 17th-century clock
Visitor Information:
- No booking required
- The tower and gallery accessed by stairs
- Accessible toilet available in the adjacent Village Hall on request
- Water bottle can be filled
Facilities
Additional Access Information
- Please note that the main body of the church is accessible
- The Tower and Gallery are accessed via stairs
- There is a toilet in the building up three steps. However, there is also an accessible toilet in the adjacent Village Hall which is available on request
Gallery
Key Information
Booking not required
Where to find us
Address
- Monymusk Church
- Monymusk
- Inverurie
- AB51 7HJ