Old Kirk, Kirkmaiden

Perched high over Scotland’s most southerly village of Drummore, the 17th century Parish Church of Kirkmaiden has a rich history involving the Covenanters, witches and an unusual graveyard. The church became known as Kirk Covenant due to its origins in 1638, the year that the Covenanters entered Scottish history. Volunteers, who have an intimate knowledge of the Kirk, will be on hand to provide information and guided tours throughout the day.

The Kirk is steeped in folklore and it is said that this area of the South Rhins was once well known for its witches. In 1697 the Rev. A. Marshall declared it to be ‘overrun by witches’ and employed a ‘witch finder’ from Wigtown, who inspected the entire adult congregation. The graveyard has numerous historic and unusual headstones, including a lighthouse erected by one of the Principal lighthouse keepers at the Mull of Galloway in memory of his young son.

After passing the Drummore village sign take the immediate right, up the hill and then left at the T junction. This is the Port Logan Mull of Galloway road. The church is on the left in the hamlet of Kirkmaiden at the top of the hill. Parking is on road.

Partial disabled access.