Edinburgh
Designed 1899 by Sydney Mitchell & Wilson, stone & brick with addition of James Jerdan & Sons Tower. A lofty communicating building with ground floor, 1st floor Gallery, Tower & Basement. Building officially opened on 18 May 1901. Addition of Foster & Andrews organ 1903 which was completely rebuilt in 1984. 1903 Clayton & Bell of London designed a stained glass East Window in the memory of John Drennan's mother. Union of Candlish & John Ker churches on Candlish site in 1981 and renamed Polwarth Church. Four stained glass windows from John Ker church removed and installed in the Murray Aisle in 1983.
Extensive use of beautiful gardens widely used by the community, including a Teds’ Den for children. The All Aboard boat owned by the church has resided at the floating pontoon alongside the Canalside Garden since 21 May 2021.
Activities
Access to all building with guides available to give additional information when requested or to add to the visitor's journey through the building.
Points of specific interest: view from Gallery of the Sanctuary; Sanctuary with labyrinth on the floor (available to walk); beautiful stained glass windows; Drennan Hall and Small Hall; extensive gardens with Teds’ Den; Peace Garden for contemplation; decking facing the Union Canal; Canalside Garden (not accessible)
2026 Theme: Heritage at Risk: Revive, Resist, Reimagine
Reimagine:
● The building will be seen by visitors who can explore the whole site and soak in the beauty of its heritage;
● It can show how the congregation has opened up the building for extensive use by the local and far community in a variety of ways;
● Explore the garden, the labyrinth and boat embracing their accessibility;
Keeping the building alive for future generations beyond just being a building to worship in.
Facilities
Gallery
