Holy Trinity Church, St Andrews
Holy Trinity is the town kirk of St Andrews, standing on South Street since about 1412. It is called the Cradle of the Reformation in Scotland because John Knox preached his first public sermon here in 1547, and it remains a working Church of Scotland parish church.
Photos
Han Stw
Six centuries on South Street
The parish church first stood beside the cathedral and was moved to this site by Bishop Wardlaw between 1410 and 1412. Knox preached here in 1547 and returned in June 1559 with the sermon that led to the stripping of the cathedral. A rebuild around 1800 removed much of the medieval fabric, and a restoration of 1907 to 1909 by MacGregor Chalmers brought back a medieval look. The tower and spire are among the oldest surviving parts. It is Category A listed.
Inside
The church is known for its stained glass and woodwork, and it has a carillon. If you cannot get inside, the church offers a virtual tour online, and self-guided tour material is available. Look up at the tower as you approach from South Street.
Visiting and services
Worshippers, tourists and pilgrims are all welcome. The main service is on Sunday at 11:15am. There is no parking at the church, but on-street parking is free in town on Sunday mornings until 1pm. The Bothy and Cafe in the Square are just behind the church in Church Square. The church also runs an earlier Sunday service at Dunino.
Highlights
- On this site since about 1412
- John Knox's first public sermon, 1547
- Restored 1907 to 1909
- Stained glass, woodwork and a carillon
- Category A listed
Good to know
- Sunday service at 11:15am, also shared online.
- No on-site parking; on-street parking in town is free on Sundays until 1pm.
- A virtual tour is available on the church website.
- Phone: 01334 478317.
Frequently asked questions
Nearby
Sources: holyt.co.uk · en.wikipedia.org