Dumfries&GallowayGRETNAGREENOldParishChurch(geraldenglandCC-BY-SA2.0)1 GeraldEngland

Old Parish Church

The church had its origins in Pictish times at St Brigids Well on Gretna Hill.

Gretna Green, Dumfries & Galloway

Opening times

Sorry, there are no regular opening times for this church.

Address

Gretna Green
Dumfries & Galloway
DG16 5DU

The name Graitney was used in church records until 1st February 1916 and thereafter the name Gretna is used. In the records of York Minster, Gretna or Graitney Church is mentioned as being under the jurisdiction of the priory of Guisburn in Yorkshire. The church had some connection with the Bruce family who had been granted land by the Normans in Yorkshire, and were Lords of Annandale.

The present church, which in part may date from the 17th century, probably stands on or close to the site of its medieval predecessor, which is first mentioned about 1170. A fragment of late medieval window moulding and what may be two similar fragments are built into the west wall. On display is a piece of stone with a cat like head carved in high relief, with bulbous circular eyes, rounded ears, and the hint of a mouth.

A great variety of old Communion plate/pewter/tokens from the old parish are still in the possession of the church. The old pewter consists of a bowl, flagon, two cups and three plates.
From their appearance it seems likely that they were buried under masonry when the church was burned down. One of the plates is punch marked round the rim with the inscription 'This basin belongs to Graitney Kirk 1707.'

  • Social heritage stories

  • National heritage here

  • Glorious furnishings

  • Captivating architecture

  • Walkers & cyclists welcome

  • Space to secure your bike

  • Parking within 250m

  • On street parking at church

  • Level access to the main areas

  • Dog friendly

  • Café within 500m

  • Bus stop within 100m

  • Accessible toilets nearby

  • Church of Scotland

Contact information

Other nearby churches

St Michael & All Angels

Arthuret, Cumbria

The church of St Michael & All Angels is situated on a hill in the ancient parish of Arthuret and overlooks the market town of Longtown with fine views of the surrounding countryside.

St Andrew

Kirkandrews on Esk, Cumbria

The tranquility of St Andrew's church, set on the banks of the river Esk, belies the turbulence of its past

St Michael

Burgh by Sands, Cumbria

12th century Norman church, built with stones from Hadrian’s Wall and where King Edward I (Longshanks) lay in state in the church for ten days in 1307.