Saints and Stones: Old Kirk of St. John (Gardenstown)
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On the hillside to the west of Gardenstown, and visible from most parts of the village, are the remains of the Old Kirk of St. John the Evangelist, traditionally said to have been founded in 1004 A.D., but is frequently referred to in the 12th and following centuries. Indeed, one source states that it was built in 1513.

The kirk perches right on the edge of a ledge some 230 feet or so above sea level. The kirk predates the village and celebrates an even earlier event, the defeat of the Danes here in 1004. It was formerly known as the 'Kirk of Sculls' from the 3 skulls, said to be of Danes, which decorated the inside of the church.

About the Old Kirk of St. John

Canmore: St. John's Church
Undiscovered Scotland: Gardenstown

Journey to the Old Kirk of St. John

Gardenstown is located off the B9031 in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. From Gardenstown, walk past the town along the beach, turn inland, and follow the winding footpath up to the the Old Kirk of St. John.

Ordnance Survey Map (NJ789644)

Visitors Information

Visitors information for the Old Kirk of St. John may be found at the Canmore website. Tourist information on Gardenstown and surrounding villages may be found on the Welcome to Gamrie website. General tourist information may be found at the Aberdeen City and Shire website.

Additional Photos of the Old Kirk of St. John

Old Kirk of St. John from Road Leading Into Gardenstown
Old Kirk of St. John from Beach by Gardenstown
Approaching Old Kirk of St. John
Approaching Old Kirk of St. John
Old Kirk of St. John
Interior of Old Kirk of St. John
An Entrance Into Old Kirk of St. John
One End of Old Kirk of St. John
Grave Marker, Old Kirk of St. John
View of Gardenstown from Old Kirk of St. John

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