St Mary's Church

St Mary’s Church is an incredibly impressive and breathtaking building. It has a history, which originally dates back to the 12th century, however, the majority of what can be seen today is 14th-15th century in date. It is regarded as one of the largest churches built during this period and is comparable to some of the smaller Scottish cathedrals. Much of the church was ruined during the mid 16th century Siege of Haddington and has seen many refurbishments since that period.

The earliest reference to St Mary’s dates from 1139 AD but it was founded as a Collegiate Church in 1380, taking over one hundred years to build. After the Siege of Haddington (1548-9) and at the instigation of John Knox, born in Giffordgate just across the river in Haddington, the Town Council repaired the Church in 1561. There followed many improvements since then and in 1892, during the ministry of the Rev Robert Nimmo Smith, the floor was lowered, red pine blocks were laid, plaster was removed from the walls and two new galleries were built. In the early 1970s further restoration took place. 

For more information about St Mary’s, services and opening times go to http://www.stmaryskirk.co.uk/

Directions: You can access St Mary’s Church either from off the Sidegate in Haddington (head east along Market Street and turn right onto the Sidegate) or from the riverside. Just follow the signs once in Haddington.

Additional Information: Interpretation. Café. Free. Open all year.