Church Overview

There are few sites in Scotland where arriving visitors will encounter such an impressive insight into Christian worship in medieval Scotland than can be found here at St Athernase’s Church in Leuchars. The magnificent 12th century Romanesque chancel and apse at one end of the building, possess an elaborate decorative embellishment of tiered, blind round-headed arcading and beautifully sculptured wall-head corbels and make the building of outstanding architectural interest.

The apse is believed to have been re-roofed sometime before 1638 and the church’s distinctive octagonal belltower, making the whole structure somewhat reminiscent of a tiered wedding cake, was added on top of the projecting chancel in 1745. The nave was altered by local architect Robert Balfour in 1812-14, when the gallery staircase was added, and further substantial changes to the building were made in 1858 during the restoration efforts of Victorian architect John Milne. The chancel was re-opened into the nave and further changes were made to the fabric of the building in 1914, during renovations overseen by the architect Reginald Fairlie. 

The lively architecture of the exterior contrasts somewhat with its peaceful interior. Original masons’ marks and carving can be found can be found throughout, much of which was probably exposed when the nave was altered in 1858 by John Milne. The Norman chancel and apse are beautiful in their simplicity, with the chancel arch decorated with chevron and chequerboard carving typical of its date. The grotesque stone heads, some of which show signs of significant restoration, are a delight, depicting horses and various monstrous creatures presumably intended to provoke feelings of awe and fear from those gathered within

The furnishings are of the early 20th century, probably dating to Fairlie’s refurbishment, with wooden panelling and other items replaced during necessary repair restoration work carried out 2014-15. There are three large burial slabs on display, one in its original location on the floor covering the remains of Sir Robert Carnegie of Kinnaird (d.1565) and the other two lining the walls, to Sir William Bruce of Earlshall (d.1584) and the other Dame Agnes Lyndesay (d.1653).

The interior is naturally lit by the the windows which are predominantly of clear glass, apart from one, a stained glass memorial window commemorating former minister Rev Dr William Levack, depicting scenes from St John’s Gospel and designed by the celebrated Scottish artist William Wilson.

The surrounding ancient graveyard has many interesting memorials, including many well carved 18th century stones depicting ‘Memento Mori’ symbols that were intended to emphasise the precarity of life to any passers-by and encourage pious behaviour and regular attendance at the nearby church.

Services

Alternates each Sunday at 11.00 am with Tayport Church. Special services at other times. Check church’s own website for details.

Opening Arrangements

Open to public every Tuesday 10am-2pm, with tea, coffee, scones, toasties and soup available in the Coach House at the same time.

Guides on duty on Tuesdays.

Disclaimer

The information about churches in Scotland’s Churches Scheme has been provided by the congregations or taken from the Historic Scotland list and published sources, in particular, the Buildings of Scotland volumes and the RIAS Illustrated Architectural Guides. To contact this specific church please complete the Contact this Church form above. The information is not authoritative; please contact Scotland’s Churches Trust to let us know of any errors or omissions.