Enjoy this splendid collection showing how genealogy enriches your family history. Interesting artefacts and portraits illuminating ancestors back through the centuries; from Diana, Bonnie Prince Charlie and Robert the Bruce and beyond! www.andersonofnorthfield.net
Designed by architect TM Cappon, this Grade B Listed Building dates from 1886. The stained glass in the church dates from 1885 to 1950 and includes two windows from the Kempe Studio in London. The organ was installed in 1904, and is by John Miller of Dundee. The Rood screen figures were sculpted by William Lamb of Montrose and unusually depict Christ as beardless. Many visitors remark on a numinous feeling in the church. https://stmaryschurchnewportontay.org/
Sir John Leng was a 19th century entrepreneur from Hull who adopted Dundee and made his name producing a pioneering daily newspaper for the people. He commissioned the Gothic style chapel as a memorial for his first wife, Mary. This charming A-Listed building was erected in 1895-7 to a design, by Dundee Architect Thomas Cappon, which reflected a miniature cathedral in 13th Century French style. It has a Caen stone interior and is adorned with gargoyles, and carvings by John Bremner Enjoy the magnificent views from the hill-top location.
Earlsferry became a Royal Burgh in 1589 with liberty to hold markets and have a market cross. The mediaeval town-house was described in 1840 as 'an old building', which contained the town-hall, and a wretched gaol before being replaced in 1872. Learn about the history of Earlsferry’s Town Hall and take a guided history walk round the Burgh learning about the pilgrims, weavers, golf club makers and tourist venues.
The Byre Theatre was founded in 1933 and the current building was designed by award-winning architects Nicoll Russell Studios of Broughty Ferry, opening in 2001. With an auditorium and studio the Byre hosts around 800 events every year including theatre, dance, film, comedy and music.
MARTYRS KIRK, THOMSON READING ROOM, UNIVERSITY OF St ANDREWS
The University bought Martyrs Kirk in 2012. After preserving and re-fitting the iconic building, incorporating the Thomson Reading Room and Special Collections Reading Room, it opened in 2013. The architects used lighting skillfully to illuminate highlights of the new interior as well as the original architecture and with awe inspiring stained glass in windows, the Thomson Reading Room is an exceptional environment for study and contemplation.
Built in 1936 as a comfortable modern home in central Cupar, this private dwelling house has survived with only limited modernisation. Sympathetically restored in a 1940s' décor and fitted out with furniture, furnishings and appliances of the era, it is a living time-capsule of the sights, sounds and smells of a home of that period, giving visitors a fully immersive experience. Tours in small groups, conducted by the owners. ALL TOURS ARE NOW FULLY BOOKED
The old Tayport Burgh Chambers are opened especially for Doors Open events. Take the opportunity to visit the old JP Courtroom and view pictures, historical maps, information, regalia and documents. The garden will also be open for you to enjoy.
This has been a religious site since 1607 but the present structure dates from 1794. It is a distinctive local landmark, particularly because of its leaning tower. The church contains a Miller pipe organ installed in 1899. Auld Kirk is developing as an Arts and Heritage Centre, whilst retaining historic features. The surrounding graveyard has interesting slabs which reflect Tayport’s history, maritime connections and the family grave of renowned local artist Cynicus.
A picturesque red-brick church with a vaulted interior, designed in late Victorian Gothic style by eminent Dundee Architect Thomas Cappon in 1896, and featuring a variety of texture and colour, use of timber, and intricate window tracery. The church contains several interesting memorials and the 2004 hall extension constructed in matching materials fits perfectly with the original building.
St JOHN THE EVANGELIST, EPISCOPAL CHURCH
Enter this deceptively large interior and admire the wood carvings by Robert Lorimer, who lived at nearby Kellie Castle, as well as the splendid stained glass, both old and contemporary. Younger visitors may enjoy counting how many angels they can find inside the church. Don’t forget to visit the nearby Priory Gatehouse.
This room is named after the Senatus Academicus, the supreme body of the University responsible for regulating teaching and discipline and approving degrees. The interior was re-designed by Sir Robert Rowand Anderson in 1897-8. It contains fine portraits by Raeburn, Lely and Wilkie and a rare split second clock used by 17th century mathematician, James Gregory.
Discover the charm of this 15th century Gatehouse rebuilt by Bishop James Kennedy. The Priory of Pittenweem thrived from the 13th century until the Reformation. Let your steward explain its links with the Isle of May and St Andrews Cathedral. Efforts continue to restore this hidden gem for community use.
PARLIAMENT HALL, UNIVERSITY OF St. ANDREWS
Standing on the site of the University's oldest college, this impressive wood-paneled room was originally used for classes and examinations. It was renamed ‘Parliament Hall’ after the Scottish Parliament sat here in 1645-1646 during an outbreak of plague in Edinburgh. Visitors can view some of the University’s historic portraits and furniture and chat to our friendly staff! Outside, in St Mary’s Quadrangle, there is a large holm oak tree, which is around 275 years old and another ancient tree: a thorn tree, supposedly planted by Mary Queen of Scots in the sixteenth century.
The current building of Largo Parish Church dates from 1620 with a number of alterations over the years. Major restoration in 2015-17 involved external stonework repairs and work on the stained glass and leaded windows. There is a wealth of local history to be seen inside and out, with stories to bring it all to life - come and enjoy our shared heritage.
You will be given a warm welcome to this old village church, which dates from 1631. Come to enjoy short organ recitals or ask to hear your favourite hymn. Explore the historic churchyard with our quiz. Refreshments served for a donation to church funds.
KING JAMES LIBRARY, UNIVERSITY OF St ANDREWS
The King James Library was founded in 1612 with the patronage of James VI & I. The Library is in the north range of St Mary's College quadrangle, above Parliament Hall. Distinguished scientist James Gregory, first Regius Professor of Mathematics (1668-1673), worked in the Library. A meridian line was placed in the floor in 1726 to commemorate his work. This line continues outside across the pavement of South Street.
Over the weekend, we’ll be opening buildings normally kept under lock and key on the island. This includes access to the main Stevenson lighthouse (access to the top), the 1634 Beacon (Scotland’s oldest lighthouse), the Low Lighthouse (access to the top), the engine rooms and the former lighthouse keepers’ building. It’s the only opportunity all year to see inside these unique buildings on the Isle of May.
Housed in weavers’ cottages and the historic Weigh House, in the beautiful village of Ceres, the Fife Folk Museum has over 10,000 objects and artefacts on display. Our small independent museum is manned by volunteers and offers a warm welcome. This year our exhibits are:- the Cottage Room depicting life in the 1850’s ; Victorian Life in Costume; Working Horses in Fife and many more.
Cults Kirk is a well preserved 18th century Presbyterian Church (‘B’ Listed) in a beautiful location. Christian worship has taken place on this site for more than one thousand years. Sir David Wilkie R.A., born in the manse, was a child when the Kirk was renovated to its present form. The only memorial in Scotland to Sir David, by Samuel Joseph, is located in the church. A brief history is available and there is a permanent display of Wilkie’s life and work.
ARCHAEOLOGY ROOM, UNIVERSITY OF St ANDREWS
Come to the University's Archaeology Room to see and handle examples of prehistoric worked flint and Cypriot artefacts such as pottery vessels, lamps, figurines and votive offerings. The objects, dating from the Palaeolithic to the Byzantine period, provide fascinating glimpses into the ancient world – from trade, technology and consumption to burial, beliefs and artistic expression. Learn about our latest digital research and discover how we are using unfamiliar, ancient material to improve literacy, health and well being!
PLEASE NOTE COLLESSIE WILL TAKE PART IN THE EAST AREA EVENTS ON SUNDAY 1st SEPTEMBER AND NOT 8th SEPTEMBER AS ERRONEOUSLY LISTED IN THE PRINTED BROCHURE
Come and see the largest collection of Pictish carvings anywhere – still in the place where they were made over 1500 years ago. As well as telling the story of the caves our brand-new Museum & Visitor Centre has displays and information on local geology and history, including later industries based in the village, like mining and textiles.
The original Kirkcaldy Sheriff Court building was built in 1894, and opened in May of that year. A modern extension was added in 1982, providing additional court rooms, chambers and a room (with library) for the use the local faculty of solicitors.
The Centre currently offers a wide variety of activities to include: • Learning for Work (Adult Certificated Courses) • Learning for Leisure (Adult Non-Certificated Courses) • Sport and Fitness Classes • Learning for Fun (Children's Classes) • Children's Holiday activities • Special Events and 'One Off' Activities • Birthday Parties • Casual facility use The Centre is also home to a variety of different community groups and organisations, which operate as independent groups based within the facility. For more information regarding the class programmes and facilities offered at Community Use Schools, please visit our website www.fifedirect.org.uk/CUSchools or our Facebook page www.facebook.com/CUSchools or our Twitter page www.twitter.com/CUSchoolsFife
Wheelchairs are welcome and disabled parking will be provided close to the amenities. Wheelchair access to toilets, tearoom, platform, station building and workshop. However our heritage coach on the train unfortunately does not have wheelchair access. A steam passenger train will be running to provide rides on the day and there will be a model railway on display as well as craft stalls.
Started in 1876 by Dora, the eldest daughter of James Hay Erskine Wemyss, of Wemyss Castle, the school was modelled on the Royal School of Needlework in London; but with a partisan purpose. The Wemyss School sought to teach a skill to local girls from which they would then be able to earn a living. Under the present guardian, Fiona Wemyss, the School has progressed to teaching all kinds of Needlecrafts, supplying materials and designs to customers while still retaining the original building and a wealth of historical pieces. https://wemyssneedlework.com/
The Museum Bus will be on site and open for Doors Open Day at Lochore Meadows Country Park and will have a Museum Exhibition on the recently opened Fife Pilgrim Way. https://www.onfife.com/museums-galleries/schools-and-groups/mac-fifes-mobile-museum
Earthship Fife is the only building of its kind in Scotland – a sustainability model made from car tyres and waste with renewable energy, self contained water and sewage systems. Needs to be seen to be believed! Tours of the Earthship will take place at 1200, 1400 and 1500. https://sci-scotland.org.uk/about-earthship-fife/
Monimail Tower Project is a small charity and community living in a beautiful walled garden and orchard set around a medieval tower dating to the 13th century. Monimail was an estate belonging to William Lamberton (Bishop of St. Andrews 1298-1328) who constructed a manor house that became a Rennaisance Palace for the Archbishops of St Andrews. The A-Listed tower is a surviving fragment of the palace and comprises three storeys over a basement, which was later altered to form an ice house. https://www.diggersanddreamers.org.uk/communities/existing/monimail-tower-project
There is only one example of Charles Rennie Mackintosh’s work on the east coast of Scotland and it can be seen in Dysart St Clair Church of Scotland. The murals will be on show from 12 noon, after the morning service.
Built between 1592-1595, this is the oldest post reformation church still in use in Scotland. Burntisland Parish Church is also known as the 'Kirk of the Bible' because King James VI of Scotland held the General Assembly here in May 1601 where he granted a new translation of the Bible since known as the 'King James Authorised Version'.
The history of the building is bound up with Dysart House as It once served as offices and laundry for the Sinclair and Nairn families. From 1930 it was the laundry for the Carmelite Monastery. Kirkcaldy Art Club bought the building in 1970 for £150! Visitors will find greatly improved premises with a splendid Pottery and an upstairs painting studio with stair lift access if necessary. There will be an exhibition of members' work, including pottery, paintings, jewellery, glass, cards and other items. There will also be activities for children in the Pottery, and light refreshments on offer. Some art club members will also be demonstrating their work in a range of mediums.
There are records of a church at Markinch dating from the time of MacBeth but the present church tower was built in the first half of the 12th century. Pieces of Norman decoration still survive. It is believed to be one of the oldest buildings in Scotland still in continuous use - but why such quality and why Markinch? The tour guide will try to provide answers. The interior now has a light, elegant Georgian character.
Scotland's first Coptic Church serves a congregation of people from 15 nationalities including Scottish, Irish, Egyptian, Swedish, Sudanese, Lebanese, Spanish and Korean. The congregation comes to Kirkcaldy every Sunday morning from all over Scotland to attend divine liturgy. Converting Invertiel Parish Church in 1994 produced an astounding interior which will not fail to impress.
Laying on the mediaeval pilgrimage route from Culross to St Andrews Kinglassie has a little known spring called Finglassin's or St Glass’s well and it is highly likely that pilgrims would have stopped here to slake their thirst. With the official opening of the new “Fife Pilgrim Way" the well has been featured as part of Kinglassie’s rich heritage and access has been improved to allow a new generation of ‘pilgrims’ to visit the historic site. This year you will be able to see the new wellhead that has been constructed to a design based on early mediaeval bee-hive cell wellheads found in Britain and Ireland. Our thanks go to the owner of the site for his continued support in this project.
Rothes Halls is an entertainment and conference venue located right in the centre of Glenrothes, adjoining the Kingdom Shopping Centre. Its vibrant programme includes popular music, big-name comedy, drama, dance and children's shows and large-scale, site-specific theatre productions. The FifeSpace & FotoSpace visual arts galleries are located on the first floor and host new exhibitions every six weeks, ranging from nationally-recognised names to touring exhibitions and local artists' work.
In our Heritage Centre we have 6 monthly exhibitions. We have workshops on regularly and we do talks and outreach. We also have class visits from local schools. We have an extensive Archive and deal with many enquiries from both home and abroad.
The Willie Clarke Centre at Lochore Meadows Country Park is the hub of all activities within the park. We are keen that visitors are given the opportunity to appreciate the buildings setting in the park and its flexibility for use for a variety of business and leisure functions and events.
Law’s Close, known locally as “The Merchants House” is a Category ‘A’ listed building and one of the best preserved 16th century town houses in Scotland. Situated on the High Street in Kirkcaldy with views across the Firth of Forth towards Edinburgh. The building dates from the 1500’s and is considered to be one of the finest surviving examples of a house of this type. After becoming redundant and falling into disrepair, the building was restored by Scottish Historic Buildings Trust after an extensive repair programme. The building re-opened in 2005 and now offers comfortable and unique office accommodation.
Experience Kirkcaldy’s heritage inside the oldest building in town in continuous use. View the beautiful stained glass windows by Burne-Jones and William Morris, newly restored, and Crear McCartney; hear the stories of Kirkcaldy’s famous folk – the butler who made his fortune from a beached whale; the last fatal duel in Scotland; the witch kept in the tower before execution; Adam Smith and Rev. George Gillespie. Tour the historic graveyard for more! Climb the ancient bell tower for magnificent views and take in this year’s exhibition celebrating 775 years since the Catholic consecration in 1244.
A church has stood on this site since 1126 when Robert, Archbishop of St Andrews, granted the land to the Abbey of Dunfermline. The original building, which was dedicated to St Glastian, has had many alterations since then. The current building standing on the footprint of the original, dates partly to the 16thC, but was largely rebuilt in 1773 after it had become ruinous, and was then altered again in 1887. The phases of extending and rebuilding can still be seen in the masonry walls. Combine your visit to the church with a short walk to see the nearby Finglassin's Well.
Dysart Tolbooth was built in the late 16th century and visitors will be able to access the former prison cell. The 19th century Town Hall holds the permanent exhibition of the Dysart Trust which features fascinating items from Dysart’s industrial past. There are many old school class photographs which have always proven to be of great interest to visitors and the memorabilia relating to bygone Dysart is particularly evocative.
"Island Jewels of the Forth" - an island hopping tour which shines a spotlight on the now mainly deserted islands from Bass Rock at mouth of the Forth westwards to the iconic Forth Bridge. Exhibition examines their character, rich natural heritage and tells tales that deserve to be better known. www.burntisland.net
The Kirk invites you to enjoy peaceful contemplation in this beautiful setting. See our wonderful stained glass war memorial window, 17thC grave slabs, carved stone font and 1886 organ. All are welcome in this place.
The Church and Crypt underwent major renovations and restoration in 2017. Visitors will be able to view and tour the church and grounds. The local History Group have produced a booklet detailing the history of the church and the surrounding area, and this will be available for visitors. The flower committee will have decorated the church which will also be open on the Saturday afternoon 2- 4pm.
Located in Kirkcaldy's town centre, the Adam Smith Theatre is a popular venue in a traditional setting, well-loved for its high-quality shows, full-scale cinema and long history as the heart of the local arts scene.
Adam Smith Global Foundation offers you an opportunity to explore their exciting Heritage Centre and Timeline, created to celebrate Kirkcaldy’s most famous son, the economist and moral philosopher, Adam Smith, in his 18th Century town birthplace. Come along and enjoy the exhibition and hear about our exciting plans for the latest phase of this Birthplace Initiative including the garden and enterprise projects.
Forth Valley Sensory Centre are the proud beneficiaries of the “Adopt a Sculpture” programme. A fabulous tactile sculpture called “Big Wave Vortex”, by Tom Allan, is now located within the Sensory Garden located next to the Centre. The Garden provides a great place to relax and grab a moment of peace or simply enjoy the delightful flowers. With benches, tables, chairs and a picnic bench, it is also a great spot for some alfresco dining. The garden was designed to enrich the senses of touch and smell. You can even say hello to the famous Tin Man - now an official Pokestop for Pokemon Go players! The fountain has recently been remodelled and some great new musical instruments installed along with a new handcrafted bench.
Falkirk Stadium is home to the Scottish Championship club, Falkirk FC, and has a capacity of 7,937. Work began on building the stadium in 2003 after Brockville Park, the club's town centre home since 1885, was sold and demolished. The new stadium was opened in 2004 with the main stand completed. It was designed by Falkirk Council architects and constructed by Mowlem. The main façade faces west towards the town and is dominated by four apsidal metal sheeted stairwells and horizontal bands of powder blue-tinted windows. The north and south stands were built and opened in 2005 and 2009 respectively. The project of building the stadium started as a partnership between Falkirk Football Club and Falkirk Council who set up the Falkirk Community Stadium Ltd. Falkirk's first ever game at the stadium was a friendly in July 2004 against Dundee resulting in a 2–1 defeat (but we don’t mention that). The second stand to the north of the pitch has a capacity of 2,000 and its completion brought the stadium's capacity to over the Scottish Premier League's 6,000 seating criteria, meaning Falkirk was allowed automatic promotion from the First Division. The stand received its safety certificate in late March 2005, shortly before the SPL's deadline. An artificial playing surface was installed at the stadium in June 2013. In 2016 Lowland Football League side Stirling University FC started playing their home matches at the ground, having moved from Stirling Albion's Forthbank Stadium. Likewise, in April 2018 it was announced that East Stirlingshire would begin playing their home matches at the Falkirk Stadium from the start of the 2018–19 season. The club had previously played in the town at Firs Park until 2008, before spending a decade ground-sharing with Stenhousemuir at Ochilview Park. Courtesy of Falkirk Football Club.
In the west wing of Callendar House lies the Searchroom for Falkirk Archives, containing collections relating to the Falkirk area and its people. It is located in the oldest part of the house. When the Forbes family was in residence it was used as a library whilst the adjacent archival storage area was a ladies’ parlour. The current design of the library dates from 1830 and was created by David Hamilton, who also designed the Steeple and Larbert Church. It has original oak panelled walls with an elegant barrel-vaulted ceiling. The wood is said to be from the family estates in the south of Scotland. A large mirror at one end reflects the repeated rectangular shapes of the bronze screens and coffering of the ceiling, thereby exaggerating the length of the narrow room. The room is north facing which helps to keep the contents cool, both in Forbes’ time and ours, as well as contributing to the visual mood of the room. This special weekend opening of Falkirk Archives also opens up a lesser known aspect of archival collecting - displaying material one might not expect to find in an archive such as sound and film recordings. This was highlighted by a recent BBC documentary on the BA Cowboys! Callendar House is open free throughout the year and has permanent displays of Roman material, as well as a large late 18th century kitchen and beautiful grounds. Courtesy of Falkirk Community Trust.
The buildings were designed for the sloping site in Gauze Road by Alison, Hutchison & Partners in 1972 for Central Regional Council and opened in 1976. The exterior features an open scale and platt staircase and ramp access to the main entrance on the first floor. Described by one architect as a “metal box” it has large areas of windows, typical of this period. It houses meeting rooms, games rooms and a swimming pool, with tennis and football pitches outside. These facilities support indoor bowling, football, keep fit classes, badminton, the 50+ club, yoga, squash, and so on. The main feature is the swimming pool measuring 25m x 12.5m with six lanes and a large viewing area for up to 60 spectators. This allows a wide range of water based activities to take place – not just swimming, but also synchronised swimming and sub-aqua diving. The pool is set in a thick concrete trough terraced into the hill slope with most of it set above ground on a supporting frame. Some water leaches though the concrete, carrying with it calcium, to form small stalactites on the outer face. Even though the water comes from the mains it is filtered in large containers to remove small particles and chemically treated to kill bacteria and remove parasites like Cryptosporidium. Infamously chlorine is added, find out why and how. Due to the restricted spaces involved there is no wheelchair access. Courtesy of Falkirk Community Trust & the management of the Recreation Centre.
The Falkirk Townscape Initiative is a grant-giving scheme funded by Falkirk Council, HLF, Historic Environment Scotland and others, that has seen £5.5 million invested in Falkirk Town Centre between 2013 and 2018. The aim is to help regenerate the area through investing in its unique and rich heritage.
Designed by William Black of Messrs A. & W. Black, architects, Falkirk, the Erskine Church was built in 1905. It is in the Gothic style of architecture of the Perpendicular period, with a square tower at the south-west corner some 90 ft tall. The south gable presents a five light tracery window and twin doors to the street, approached by an imposing broad flight of steps. The church is cruciform in plan, with nave, aisles, chancel and two shallow transepts. There are galleries over the end of the nave and each of the transepts. A creamy sandstone from Eastfield Quarry was used. Internally the bases of the pillars are of freestone but the walls and ceiling have been finished with lathe and plaster. Behind the church and communicating with it is a hall to accommodate 200 people, a smaller hall, vestry, session room, ladies room, waiting room, kitchen and offices. The total cost of the building was put at £9248. The building ceased functioning as a church in 2014 and is used as community halls. It now provides a great venue for functions. Courtesy of The Erskine Community Halls.
This unusual asymmetrical grouping in grey ashlar replaced the original in Zetland Place. It has a cruciform plan and is dominated by a parapeted and perforated main tower and slender stair tower. Visitors to this venue may take the opportunity to view from outside the neighbouring Grange Church (1903, B listed) and also, further along Ronaldshay Crescent, the former Abbotsgrange Middle School (1908, B listed) , both buildings now converted to flats.
Watling Lodge is a finely detailed and well-preserved example of a late 19th century Arts and Crafts villa, with the added importance of being constructed directly upon one of the best preserved stretches of the Antonine Wall. The villa was built in 1893 for Mr Fairley, the proprietor of a nearby chemical works. Red sandstone and the copious use of timber give the building a warm welcoming aspect. The green slated roof is broken up by prominent jettied half-timbered dormers with carved bargeboarded gables; and is capped by terracotta ridge tiles and underlined by overhanging bracketed eaves. The timber sash and case windows contain examples of patterned, stained, frosted and leaded glass and this is echoed by the richly decorated lobby door and surround. The interior is richly finished with timber, panelled plaster and glass. Both the main house and the brick stable block are today used by the Barnardo’s Cluaran Service and the Barnardo’s Axis Service – it is not a residential children’s home. Open courtesy of Barnardo’s Scotland. Wheelchair access to ground floor only. Parking on street/ disabled spaces in drive.
A walk through the history of the town inevitably starts at the old parish church. The town of Falkirk owes its name to the church, which is believed to date back to the 7th century. However, the oldest part of the existing building is the base of the tower, which is 15th century. The prominent steeple of 1738 was designed by William Adam. The medieval church was demolished in 1810 and on 8th September 1811 the present one was opened. The plans had been prepared by Gillespie Graham giving an auditorium church. Externally, the angles are emphasised by square pseudo-towers with crenellated tops, the gables surmounted by a matching crow-stepping. The cost of the building was nearly £5000. In 1892 a two-storey hall by R R Anderson was added to the south side of the tower. Since the late 13th century the graveyard has attracted international visitors, including Cromwell’s troops. Robert Burns also made the pilgrimage, for here are the monuments to Sir John de Graeme and Sir John Stewart of Bonkhill, killed in the 1298 Battle of Falkirk. The de Graeme tomb was covered with a cast iron canopy made by the Falkirk Iron Company in 1860. Here too are the graves of Colonel Robert Munro, young Glengarry, and other victims of the Jacobite battle of 1746. More soldiers are commemorated on the war memorial that forms the entrance from the hall; and this is now joined by the memorial from the Erskine Church. Open courtesy of the Kirk Session of Falkirk Trinity. Wheelchair access to ground floor only. Limited parking to side of church for elderly/disabled. Further parking in town centre.
Torwood or Tappoch Broch is probably the best preserved of all the Lowland brochs with walls over 10ft high. It stands at the high point overlooking the Roman road to Stirling and with panoramic views across the Forth Valley. Due to its strategic location on the road this historic wood also saw William Wallace hiding in an oak tree, the Royalist army holding a defensive line against Oliver Cromwell and Donald Cargill excommunicating Charles II. The broch was excavated in 1868 by Colonel Dundas and the interior left exposed.
Large Victorian villa extended upwards (Matthew Steele 1907) with striking columned and domed corner turret and cantilevered Tudor billiard room.
The Barony Theatre building was erected in the 1880s as Borrowstoun Primary School. It is a typical stone building of the School Board era in plain Scottish Baronial style. Since the early 1960s, the Barony Players have made a number of internal modifications, including the installation of raked seating, to bring the building back to life as a venue fit to host theatrical productions.
<!-- [if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:OfficeDocumentSettings> <o:AllowPNG/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings> </xml><![endif]--> The foundation stone for the new Falkirk Town Mission was laid on 10th September 1898. Amazingly, almost all of the money for it, about £1600, was raised at a grand bazaar in the Town Hall that year. The original plans by Alexander Gauld were modified when the mission was given a bell from Falkirk Steeple – the tower was provided with a louvred belfry instead of a dome. The church has a horseshoe balcony, reached by a stair in the tower. A library (now a crèche) and meeting rooms were placed to the front of the building. The Town Mission closed its doors for the last time in March 1985. On 12th December 1986 they re-opened as the Struther’s Memorial Church and remain so to this day.
Completed in 1814 according to designs by David Hamilton of Glasgow, the Steeple is the iconic landmark of the town. 140ft tall, it has four stages – the bottom being severe Florentine; the second Greek Doric; the third or clock chamber Italianate; and the belfry Ionic. It was constructed to house the town’s bell and clock, as well as containing temporary lockups. The design was a reflection of civic pride. The original Steeple on the site was erected in 1697 and was the first building to be owned by the Stentmasters – the precursor of the town council. An exhibition on the history of the Steeple can be found in the Howgate Shopping Centre nearby from mid-September. Today the ground floor is the only area open to the public and functions as the Box Office for Falkirk Community Trust. Over this weekend there will be opportunities to inspect the two prison cells (lockups) usual closed to the public. These retain their original reinforced doors and traces of the iron cladding of both the ceilings and the floors. People had escaped from the previous tolbooth, but this was not going to happen here! To enable it to open to the public, work on the building has been supported by the Falkirk Townscape Heritage Initiative with further work to be undertaken in future years. Open courtesy of Falkirk Council & Falkirk Community Trust Please note: access is to the first and second floors of the building only, by a small spiral staircase. Visitors must be able to ascend and descend the stairs. We reserve the right to refuse access in reasonable circumstances. No wheelchair access. Parking in town centre.
This church and priest's house is one of a number of buildings by the experimental Glasgow architect Jack Coia and his practice, and a unique example of a Category A listing of a 'modernist' building. The design of the abstract flat roof brick exterior maybe a matter of aesthetic debate but inside the clerestory lighting of brick and wood creates an unquestionably beautiful sacred space.
<!-- [if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:OfficeDocumentSettings> <o:AllowPNG/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings> </xml><![endif]--> This unusual church was designed by Gillespie, Kidd and Coia in 1960-1 and includes a presbytery to the rear. From outside the distinguishing features are the use of banded yellow firebrick, irregular rectilinear windows, deep wooden boarding and flat copper roofs. The entrance is through the low western aisle. Inside the rays of light from the clerestory windows play across the twin pillars that separate the aisle from the eight-bay nave. Deep laminated beams – a speciality of the Grangemouth firm of Muirheads – enrich the ceiling and are echoed by the pine pews. The baptistry provides a separate focal point. The furniture is modern, with clean lines, presenting an uncluttered but warm space for the congregation.
This small homely building is in the Romanesque or Norman style and its most prominent feature is the use of slate in the arched windows and door heads. It was built in 1921, as testified by the foundation stone in the north wall of the angular chancel apse. The architects were Dick Peddie and Walker Todd. The church was built in such a way that it could easily be extended to the west, which now gives it a strange unfinished appearance. To the south the wooden hall and connecting passage prove a sharp contrast to the stone main building. The church is entered through a beautifully detailed and heavily buttressed porch, under an arched doorway. Small stained glass windows in the apse provide colour and light. One was donated by Mr G Gould, art master at the Bo’ness Academy, and was made by his students. The glass in the west gable depicts the town’s main industries – coal mining, whaling and maritime trade. The stone of the chancel arch is left bare to contrast with the groin-plastered vaulted ceiling of the nave and chancel.
Designed in 1905 by J N Scott and A Lorne Campbell in the perpendicular style the church has Art Nouveau details. The three stage tower contains the entrance under a square moulded hood. The tower is finished with a battlemented parapet and a green copper fleche. An octagonal stair tower rises above the parapet with delicate Art Nouveau pedestals at each angle extending above the ogival roof. There are wide perpendicular traceried windows in the gables containing stained glass. The interior consists of a four-bay nave with a north gallery over the vestibule. The latter is screened from the nave by wooden panelling with leaded glass; the doors having ornate brass handles. Chamfered arcades provide aisles that merge into the transepts giving the church a cruciform plan. The grand scale of St Andrew’s is evident immediately; however, it has lost none of its charm or sense of community.
<!-- [if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:OfficeDocumentSettings> <o:AllowPNG/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings> </xml><![endif]--> This tall red sandstone building with its 130ft tall spire dominates Newmarket Street. The use of red-snecked rubble makes it stand out from the neighbouring buildings. Above the entrance is a fine Burning Bush sculpture. The foundation stone for Falkirk Free Church was laid on 15th September 1894, and in January 1896 it opened at a total cost of £8,100. It was designed by James Strang in the mid-pointed Gothic style. The inside was refurbished recently and is now bright and clean. Colourful stained glass in a variety of styles fills the ground floor windows. It includes the figure of St Modan – the patron saint of the town – and the town’s coat of arms and motto BETTER MEDDLE WI THE DEIL THAN THE BAIRNS O FALKIRK.
This tall red sandstone building with its 130ft tall spire dominates Newmarket Street. The use of red-snecked rubble makes it stand out from the neighbouring buildings. Above the entrance is a fine Burning Bush sculpture. The foundation stone for Falkirk Free Church was laid on 15th September 1894, and in January 1896 it opened at a total cost of £8,100. It was designed by James Strang in the mid-pointed Gothic style. The inside was refurbished last year and is now bright and clean. Colourful stained glass in a variety of styles fills the ground floor windows. It includes the figure of St Modan – the patron saint of the town – and the town’s coat of arms and motto, ”BETTER MEDDLE WI THE DEIL THAN THE BAIRNS O FALKIRK”. These are also to be found on the Burgh Buildings. On the window the lion has changed colour to yellow! The congregation’s war memorial is on the organ casing, and the roll of honour is in the main stair.
Bo’ness Station is dominated by the 8-bay Haymarket Shed with its fluted cast iron columns supporting an elliptical arched arcade with decorative spandrels. As well as this famous Shed the train enthusiasts of the SRPS have amassed a huge range of buildings in order to provide a working railway. The buildings range from modern warehouses to traditional goods sheds. These enable the steam engines to be maintained daily, carriages to be stripped down and diesel locomotives rebuilt.
Scottish Centre for Simulation & Clinical Human Factors
In the heart of the new Forth Valley Royal Hospital, the Scottish Centre for Simulation & Clinical Human Factors is a state-of-the-art multi-professional training facility and the only high fidelity simulation centre in Scotland. It was established in 1998 and is increasingly recognised as a pivotal part of training a safe and capable healthcare workforce. The centre boasts a range of mid and high fidelity mannequins including adult, child, baby and neonatal simulators. Courses are run for all levels of healthcare personnel and a range of specialities, including emergency medicine, obstetrics, paediatrics and anaesthetics. The high-tech “robots” are used to simulate a range of medical conditions, including heart attacks and convulsions and the course participants’ actions are monitored and recorded. The participants then take part in a facilitated debrief where their decision-making and actions are analysed in order to see why things went well or perhaps were challenging.
<!-- [if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:OfficeDocumentSettings> <o:AllowPNG/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings> </xml><![endif]--> James Aitken began practising as a lawyer in Falkirk in 1792 and in 1818 was joined by James Russel. The premises, from the very beginning, were in Kings Court – named after a public house called the King’s Arms. The firm of Russel + Aitken is therefore probably the oldest one in Scotland to be operating under the same name and from the same site – it’s been almost 200 years! James Russel was also a businessman involved in the industrial growth of the town. Amongst his other interests he was the manager of the Falkirk Banking Company. His portrait still hangs in the offices. The offices were built for the firm and looking from the courtyard it often strikes the passer by as odd that there is a lot of wall between the windows and the roof. This is because there is a stone vault over the ground floor rooms designed to make them fire safe and burglar proof – useful for the valuable legal documents - hence also the shutters. Over the years the offices have been extended and now reach through to Cow Wynd and the 1993 façade designed by William Cadell. Consequently there are numerous levels within the building.
The Rosebank Distillery building, mothballed by United Distillers in 1995, but still containing the vats, storage tanks, whiskey safe and stills.
Randolph Hill, home to Strathcarron Hospice since the 1970s, was built in 1912 by William Wallace, the general manager and director of Carrongrove Papermill. The building was designed by architect E. Simpson of Stirling in the latest style of architecture, with a nod to the Arts and Crafts movement.
Her Majesty's Young Offenders Institution Polmont is Scotland's national facility for young men aged between 16 and 21 years who are committed to custody on remand (untried) and convicted sentences. The Scottish Government invested in a comprehensive rebuild of HMYOI Polmont, which was completed approximately 4 years ago. Polmont’s position has provided a unique opportunity to deliver the Scottish Prison Service’s vision of Unlocking Potential and Transforming Lives. For Polmont, the Vision for Young People in custody is: “To use the time a young person spends in custody to enable them to prepare for a positive future” making every contact an opportunity to learn. This vision recognises that some their time in custody may represent a chance - a rare chance - for them to engage in education or find someone who can help to point them to a better future. In addition, the approach seeks to mitigate the negative aspects of custody.
This Romanesque church with its two eastern clasping towers is a familiar sight to travellers of the adjacent M9 motorway. It is claimed to be the only parish church in Scotland with two towers and was built in 1840 to a design by Edinburgh architect John Tait. Two stained glass windows facing the horseshoe gallery, donated by the Salvesen family, have recently been cleaned. The graveyard has two Adam and Eve stones, as well as green men and trade symbols and an odd carving of a man lifting his head aloft. Amongst those buried here are First World War fighter ace John Morris and victims of the Redding Pit disaster in 1923.
Built in 1732 to a design by William Adam this is a typical T-shaped church of the Presbyterian form. The south façade contains two large round-headed windows with remnants of the former tracery. The pulpit stood in the centre of the south wall, facing aisles to the north, west and east, each with a gallery. A door in each of these gables gave access to the ground floor. The galleries were reached by external stairs on the north side and the upper floor doorways mark their positions. Until last year the building was barely visible due to the growth of ivy, but recent work by the Falkirk Local History Society has seen this ivy removed. The restoration project was undertaken to enhance the World Heritage Site of the Antonine Wall, upon which the church is built.
Iconic domed stone structure carved into pineapple shape. The building, originally attached to glass hot-houses, forms part of enclosure to former walled garden. Restored in 1972 by Landmark Trust to include holiday accommodation to rear.
Originally McLaren Memorial Church (amalgamated with Carron Church, demolished 1963) this building shows similarities to Carronvale House by the same architect, eg a flavouring of Arts-and-Crafts, open timber-work porches and small paned windows. A-listed.
Our Lady of Lourdes & St Bernadette RC Church
This pleasance low white rendered building creates a single precinct with the Priests House which along with the substantial boundary wall partially conceals it from the main road.
Listed Category B, c 1870 Occupying the former Aitken Brewery site this building was designed by Thomas Brown in Baronial-Jacobean style (crow stepped gables and conical roofed turrets) to replace temporary hostelry accommodation for the new post of Town Sheriff. The hammer-beam roof to the courtroom is a striking internal feature. Unfortunately, the oriel windowed police station wing which formed an attractive part of the original complex is now replaced by a car park. The building is now occupied by the Falkirk Voluntary Group. Disabled Access to First Floor W.C.
This very large and prominent building in the Gothic style, built to replace the original, has an aisled and cruciform plan and some important stained glass. The church hall to the rear is by Matthew Steele.
The Carron office block was designed by Robert Baldie in 1880. Originally fifty three bays long, the central tower gatehouse, known locally as Thunderbird 3, is all that now remains. The ground floor has a moulded segmental pend arch; the first floor a triple window; and the second floor an armorial panel featuring the Carron Company seal. The tower is topped by a square clock turret and a pyramid spire. On either side of the pend, set into the front walls, are a furnace lintel from 1760 and a date plate from a boiler connected with James Watt. The pend is fronted by a wrought iron screen and contains two carronades and two 9-pounder long guns set on garrison carriages.
Listed Category C/S, 1879 This building presently houses the Falkirk Registrars' Office, the Marriage Room being located in the former Council Chamber. No Disabled Access to Marriage Room.
This building together with a swimming pool were originally planned for the town centre but are now both located in Camelon close to each other. The purpose of the court building is reflected in the stern symmetry of the frontage facade which makes an interesting comparison with the Scots Baronial variety of the Old Sheriff Court.
One of 4 new school buildings designed in the same architectural style under a Public-Private Finance Initiative. 3 storey crisply articulated T-block, top-lit with a strong gable treatment at its northern end.
See a veritable treasure trove of museum objects from the Falkirk Museums collection, housed in this unimposing Grangemouth warehouse, for future generations to appreciate.
This unimposing Grangemouth warehouse is a veritable treasure house! Like many museums, Falkirk Council is only able to exhibit a small fraction of its fascinating collection of objects at any one time, and the remaining items are held here.
This 20C complex includes the Town Hall, District Court and the main 4 storey office block linked to the Councillor / Committee Wing. Opening will be restricted to this latter portion contains the Committee Suite and Council Chambers, and has a style influenced by Le Corbusier.
The housing complex at 43-51 Corbiehall is known locally as the “Coffin Block” due to the shape of the doorways. It was designed in 1932 by Matt Steele for Bo’ness Town Council and comprises of two large 3-storey L-plan blocks with canted corners flanking a 2-storey rectangular-plan piend-roofed block on higher ground. This mass is exaggerated by the use of a painted cement render, regularly placed windows, and slightly projecting vertically aligned chimney-headed entrance bays. These latter consist of moulded piers rising through the eaves as battered stacks. Below the ground floor window sills the base is of red and white brick. The rear block has brick door margins extending to the first floor banded sill course and a vertically emphasised shaped stair window above. These have been described as early Modern Movement with Voyseyesque influences and an Austrian Secession bias. Whatever the name tag they are visually attractive and have just been completely renovated by Falkirk Council.
Erected for 409 Lodge Douglas in an Arts and Crafts style with significant Egyptian elements. The main hall still has its orignal internal decoration. This little building is considered to be Steele's best work (despite the higher B listing given to his Hippodrome cinema and Grangewells, a house in nearby Muirhouses). A list of his works in the Bo'ness area will be available at this venue.
Two Gothic gables present to the main road, the larger to the main church and the smaller to the original church (1898, now the church hall).
Built alongside the Dobbie Hall in 1904 and designed by the same architects, A & W Black, the former library building reflects the hall’s rich façade. It is one of 2509 libraries around the world built between 1883 and 1929 with money donated by the Scottish-American businessman and philanthropist, Andrew Carnegie. The entrance hall has a plain mosaic floor with scrolled border. To its left, lighted by the Italianate window, is the panelled reading room. The main area of the library, where the book shelves stood, is now used as a store by the Larbert Operatic Society and the local dance group. The librarian’s howff is a hairdresser’s.
Adjacent to the parish church is a burial ground whose magnificent monuments neatly illustrate the advent of the Industrial Revolution in Scotland. They are dominated by those relating to the Carron Ironworks, which was established in 1759. The large edifices to its managers range from an Italianate tomb, to a huge urned column and a mock Roman temple. Cast iron features strongly throughout the graveyard with elaborate railings and obelisks. The Carron Enclosure contains beautiful examples of public art, including two tombs designed by John Hutchison of Edinburgh, one of the most famous sculptors of the late 19th century. In its own separate enclosure stood the earliest cast iron funerary obelisk anywhere in the world. It commemorates James Bruce, discoverer of the source of the Nile and grandson of Reverend Robert Bruce of Kinnaird referred to in this brochure under Larbert Church. “James Bruce Esq of Kinnaird,/Who died on the 27th of April 1794,/ In the 64th year of his age/His life was spent performing/useful, and splendid actions./He explored many distant regions./He discovered the fountains of the Nile./He traversed the deserts of Nubia.” The monument was so famous that Roberts Burns paid a visit to it. The graveyard is open all the year round, but during this weekend there will be guided tours.
In the 17th century Larbert Church was caught up in national politics. King James VI exiled Reverend Robert Bruce of Kinnaird to his home parish. Bruce naturally started to preach from the pulpit of the old semi-deserted church, fulfilling the roll of minister for the parish. It is said that he attracted large audiences of thousands of attendees from all over central Scotland. Around 1624 he paid to have the decaying church building demolished and a new one constructed in its place. Part of it still remains. The present church opened in 1821 at a cost of £4,400. Its architect, David Hamilton, also designed Falkirk Steeple. The style is Gothic with prominent crocketed finials on the corner buttresses and the west tower. The tower contains the main entrance and the stained glass is particularly attractive with windows by Alf Webster of Glasgow, Dickson & Walker of Edinburgh and Stephen Adam of Glasgow. On the left of the approach to the church is a pink granite marble fountain with a shallow bowl on a turned circular plinth, presented in 1923. On the right is the 1905 hall, designed by P. MacGregor Chalmers.
This B-Listed Gothic-style church, prominent at this road junction includes a square and finialled tower and belfry on the roadside corner to a substantial entrance gable. The roof-line sweeps down over the side aisles. Originally built for the breakaway Free Church. The simple Arts and Crafts hall was added in 1923.
A striking little modern church with an unusual drum feature on the street frontage. It replaces the original early 20C building.
Set within a carefully designed park landscape Kinneil House or Palace was built for James Hamilton the second Earl of Arran when he was the Protector and Governor of Scotland from 1542 to 1554 during the minority of Mary, Queen of Scots. For a few short years it was the seat of Scottish government. It still houses the best 16th and 17th century murals in Scotland. The bed chamber is now known as the Arbour room and the painting is full of foliage, scrolls and animals. This was later painted over in imitation of wainscoting and a coffered ceiling containing the 1621 coat of arms of Arran. The withdrawing chamber has a number of biblical scenes on the walls, notably the Good Samaritan. In 1677 Anne Duchess of Hamilton began a programme of renovation, producing the house and grounds as they appear today. By the late 18th century the house was being let. Inventor, industrialist and part-founder of Carron Company Dr John Roebuck lived here 1764-94. Dugald Stewart the philosopher was the last tenant 1809-1828. The grounds are also the setting for events connected with Roman Week, which runs in September. The Antonine Wall runs close to the House and the remains of a Roman fortlet can be seen. There is also a 12th century church. Kinneil Museum, located in the old coachhouse, is open from 12.00-4.00pm. Nearby is the workshop in which James Watt experimented on the separate condenser in 1768 and this will feature in the guided tours. Please book online at www.historicenvironment.scot/events
The ruins of the 12th century church associated with the village of Kinneil lie just west of Kinneil House. The west gable stands full height, with rows of putlog holes and a double bellcote. It is first mentioned in the 6th century in connection with St Serf. An early stone cross from the site, of possibly 9th or 10th century date, is on display in Kinneil House. The bell, dedicated to St Catherine, is on display at the nearby museum.