The church has been established
here since 1178. Though nothing of substance remains of the original
kirk the graveyard can still be visited. There are approximately 70
gravestones ranging from 17th to 20th century. Also to be found here is
the 18th century enclosure of the Grant-Hamilton family of Tulloch.Catterline graveyard lies just outside the village. Access is a
little strange. Just outside the gate there is a large dwelling house
and to enter the graveyard you must walk along their driveway. If
however you are walking from the village there is a gravel path running
along the graveyard boundary wall which runs behind this house. That is
how I arrived. Unfortunately the gravel path stops short of the gates
and you land up walking over what appears to be the householders back
lawn. All a bit embarrassing. If the gravel path is indeed meant for
access why does it stop short?
Parking too is difficult. The road to Catterline is narrow and I do not
suggest you stop anywhere on this as it is little more than a track.
Neither do I recommend you stop at the above mentioned householders
drive. That is most definitely private property. I would recommend you park in
the village. Alternatively park a few hundred metres away at the
Episcopal church of St Philips and walk back. As a bonus you can
investigate St Philips when you return! A lovely little walk on a nice
summer day.
The graveyard is small and thinly populated. There is little in the
way of distinguishing features but the ground is in good overall
condition with the grass kept short and tidy. The 18th century enclosure
has obviously been used as a play area and when I visited there were
bottles and various other pieces of rubbish lying on the floor. A bit
disappointing, though there seemed to be no recent structural damage.
That said, the enclosure could do with some refurbishment work.
Not one of the most interesting graveyards in Kincardineshire but
worth a look, more so if you have relatives from the area.
If you require a specific gravestone photo from the above send me your relevant details and
I'll e-mail you what I have. Contact me
here
Click on photos below to enlarge
