The characterful churches of Crossmichael and Parton open their doors to welcome visitors to two village churches of fine but contrasting architecture. Crossmichael’s unusual slender round tower was built in 1611, a late addition to the first church. Look out in the churchyard for the headstone of covenanter William Graham, the burial enclosure of the Gordons of Culvennan.

Just up the road to the north you will find the village of Parton and another fine church built in 1834, designed by architect Walter Newall, well known for his work in south west Scotland. Famous people buried at Parton include William Macmath, who saved many old Border ballads, and James Clerk Maxwell, eminent scientist.

]]>