Located near the
Bay of Nigg, Aberdeen in an area known as Balnagask. First
established in 1242 the kirk was Catholic up to the Reformation then
Episcopalian until 1716. It was abandoned in 1829, following the opening
of the New Church of the parish of Nigg, though the graveyard continued
to be used up to the twentieth century.Due to its remote location it was
a target for body snatchers in the early nineteenth century and was
consequently equipped with a watch-house, the ruins of which can still be
seen today, along with the main church building.
Please be aware that due to past vandalism this
graveyard is now normally locked. To gain access a key can be obtained
from the Balnagask golf course starting box. This is at the top end of
St Fitticks Road. When I visited there the
person was unfamiliar with this arrangement but after some looking around
found the labelled keys. No charge applies. Please remember to return
these keys so that others can enjoy same. Despite the vandalism most of
the stones are in good condition. However please keep a good look out
for glass and other debris underfoot. The area has a (perhaps unfair)
reputation for drug problems, nonetheless I recommend you remain
vigilant during your visit.
Parking is easy and plentiful on St Fitticks Road.
This church is in an
exposed spot! Most days there is usually a cold breeze that
blows off the coast through the graveyard - and that's in summer. Clothe
accordingly!
An ancient place of worship that now has an air of sadness about it.
Well maintained and worth a visit for those with ancestors from the
surrounding areas.
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
