The kirkyard on Carmelite Street is one of great antiquity and national significance. It appears that, according to Imlach, the old church within the kirkyard was rebuilt in 1471 by the town council. By 1749 the old church was ‘in a ruinous way’ and was finally demolished in 1797. It was replaced by the present Banff Parish Church, located on High Street. The only part of the original church remaining today is the restored Banff aisle. The kirkyard has a wonderful collection of interesting and sometimes, to us, eccentric gravestones and tombs. The Society has produced two volumes of books about the kirkyard that are available for purchase…(link to our ‘shop’ page?)
(Excerpt from The Book of Banff Royal and Ancient Burgh by Banff Preservation and Heritage Society)
For more information from Historic Environment Scotland
Click here
For more information from Canmore
Click here
The Ogilvies of Dunlugas, later Lords Banff, built this side-chapel and family burial vault on the south wall of the old parish church.
The 16C Banff Aisle in St Mary's kirkyard, seen from the south west.
View of the historic St Mary's kirkyard, with the Banff Aisle.
Showing Admiral Gordon's monument (the pyramid). Behind it is the former Gordon's Granary, and behind that Banff Castle.
The Interior of the Banff Aisle, with early family monuments.
The wall monument on your right is to Provost Douglas, who was murdered.
The arch opened into the nave of the old parish church.
St Mary's kirkyard, seen from the east, with the Banff Aisle. Note the characteristic table tombs.