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Augustine United Church

26 September 2026 (10:00 - 16:00)

27 September 2026 (14:00 - 16:00)

Edinburgh

In Person

2026 Theme

Augustine is a diverse, progressive Christian congregation of the United Reformed Church, with a striking building on George IV Bridge. Its four storeys rise from Merchant Street, next to the Cowgate, towards an elaborate tower that earned the church the nickname of “the bridecake” when it was opened in 1861.

Our evolving, living heritage is reflected in a permanent exhibition which shares a story that began in one of the city’s most deprived areas, with roots in the ‘Radical’ Scottish Reformation. Vibrant stained glass by Robert Burns (1869–1941) is also featured.

For Doors Open Days the Sanctuary will be available for viewing, together with our heritage exhibition and audio-visual resources. Light refreshments also available for those who need a pick-me-up!

Visitors will also have the opportunity to meet representatives of interest groups and charities that meet regularly in our building. A number of these focus on aspects of Edinburgh and Scottish heritage. Find out more, ask questions, pick up information materials (Saturday Only)

Tours of whole building will be offered on Saturday 26th Steps involved; no lift access.

2026 Shared Theme: Heritage at Risk: Revive, Resist, Reimagine.

Augustine believes that by exploring its history and heritage, we both learn from and are challenged by the mission and values that have evolved down the years since our foundation in the 19th century.

As part of the United Reformed Church, we are committed to bringing into the open the legacies of the transatlantic slave trade – how that played into our own story, and how in the present day we may make reparations.

We continue to make our heritage and stories available across different media. In 2026, we will have a new booklet that focuses on our stained glass windows, designed by the artist and designer Robert Burns.

Since the Covid pandemic, Augustine has also been developing audio urban pilgrimages, mapping routes in the building’s vicinity that focus on justice issues close to the congregation’s heart. herstory and greenstory are in production, sitting alongside wellbeing story.