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St Mary's Parish Church, Haddington

26 September 2026 (11:00 - 16:00)

27 September 2026 (13:30 - 16:00)

East Lothian

In Person

2026 Theme

A 14^th century, cathedral sized church in a beautiful peaceful riverside setting. Once richly decorated, all was ruined in Haddington’s famous 1548-59 Siege; due to cost at that time, only half was repaired; it was decorated in the plain style of John Knox’s reformation. Some decoration returned during the C19 Gothic revival. The whole church was only finally restored to its medieval state and the whole length returned back in use in 1973. Many original features and medieval sculptures remain. Fine stained-glass windows. The C21 has allowed LED lighting and solar panels. St Mary’s fulfils its role as a parish church, but also with community events, concerts including the Lammermuir Music Festival, some exhibitions and the traditional Martimas Fair in November.

Activities:

2 illustrated talks about the Reimagination of heritage buildings – our once ruined church and a local ruined farm steading.

Tours:

1 - Pilgrimage of about 6 miles from East Linton over Traprain Law ending at St Mary’s Church based on the local legend of St Enoch and her son St Kentigern..
2 - Possible walking tours of the closes of old Haddington.

This year's Doors Open Days theme is Heritage at Risk: Revive, Resist, Reimagine. We will explore the theme through:

1. Displays of themed project by the local youth centre based on a local legend
2. Children’s activities based on the legend.
3. Possible displays of the project re the Closes.
4. Photographic competition for photos of traditional heritage and related themes in Haddington
5. Floral display to illustrate the legend
6. Invitation to play Bosendorfer piano to continue the musical tradition in st Mary’s