Scottish Borders
Situated in the centre of the town of Hawick upon a grassy knoll, there has been a church on this site for over 800 years. In 1214, a church was erected here and consecrated to the memory of St Mary by Adam, Bishop of Caithness, who had formerly been an Abbot of Melrose. The Kirk was then rebuilt in 1763 and then after a fire rebuilt once again in 1880. Its raised elevation means that the Church Tower can be seen from almost anywhere in the town and its clock bells chime out the time across the valley.
The church that sits on the site in modern times is designed as a long wall church. The cemetery that surrounds the church building holds many interesting gravestones and gives a historical account of Hawick in the past. For almost 200 years the church was the burial place of the Buccleuch family. The last family member being interred in 1633.
St Mary’s & Old has been at the very centre of the town of Hawick for many centuries. It is a distinctive building that can be seen from most parts of the surrounding area. It has played a huge part in the history of Hawick and often is mentioned in local poetry and song. The society of Hawick has grown up around the church – linking religion with the knitwear town. St Mary's is woven into the very being of Hawick.
For Doors Open Days visitors are invited to look around the church and find out more about it's long history.
Facilities
Gallery
Key Information
Booking not required.
Where to find us
Address
- St Mary's & Old Parish Church
- St Mary's Place
- Hawick
- TD9 0AN