St Vigeans Church

Angus

In Person

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 12^th 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 12^th century church has undergone a large number of changes over the centuries. It was extended in the 13^th century and again in the 15^th 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: 

• Consecration crosses, both inside and outside the church
• Stained glass and painted windows
• Monuments and tablets 
• The Harrison and Harrison organ installed in 1875
• The memorial to Sir Peter Young of Seaton tutor to King James VI

Visitors will be free to explore different aspects of the building and its history. Guides will be available to answer any questions that visitors may have. Two information booklets will be available to visitors and points of interest will be displayed on screens on a loop. Information will be available to help visitors looking for graves. There will be an activity designed to provide a challenge to children.

Booking is not required.

Facilities

• Limited Access
• WC
• Refreshments
• Parking
• Events For Children
• Hearing Loop
• Disabled WC

Additional Access Information

The church is accessible except for those who are entirely dependent on a wheelchair. The path to the church is fairly steep. 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. 

Gallery