StrathclydeKILMARNOCKLaighKirk(billymccorieCC-BY-SA2.0)1 BillyMccorrie

New Laigh Kirk

New Laigh Kirk has many unique features and attracts visitors, the stained glass windows are of national importance and there are links to Robert Burns and to the Covenanters.

Kilmarnock, Strathclyde

Opening times

Open Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday 12noon to 2pm.

Address

John Dickie Street
Kilmarnock
Strathclyde
KA1 1HW

New Laigh Kirk, situated in the centre of Kilmarnock is a vibrant and large congregation of the Church of Scotland. 

It was the first church in Kilmarnock following the reformation in 1560 although the present building dates from 1802 following the tragic events which took place on the afternoon of Sunday 18 October 1801. The church was packed for worship when some plaster fell from the ceiling and panic ensued. Thirty people died in the rush to get out. The church was demolished and rebuilt in 1802 with wide staircases to the gallery and many exits. 

Laigh Kirk is mentioned by Robert Burns in his poems and he is believed to have visited the church. Covenanters gravestones are in the churchyard and the church has many WWI and WWII memorials from several churches. For many visitors the highlight is the magnificent stained glass windows which have recently been cleaned and restored.


An audio tour guide is available (lasts approximately 1 hour).

  • Captivating architecture

  • Enchanting atmosphere

  • Famous connections

  • Magnificent memorials

  • National heritage here

  • Social heritage stories

  • Spectacular stained glass

  • Bus stop within 100m

  • Level access throughout

  • Level access to the main areas

  • Non-accessible toilets in church

  • On street parking at church

  • Parking within 250m

  • Train station within 250m

  • Walkers & cyclists welcome

  • Public worship to which all are welcome on Sunday at 11am.

  • Regular Musical Events under the banner of Music For All @ New Laigh Kirk.

  • Church of Scotland

Contact information

StrathclydeKILMARNOCKLaighKirk(billymccorieCC-BY-SA2.0)1 BillyMccorrie

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