St Machar's Cathedral
An ancient granite cathedral in Old Aberdeen, known for its twin-towered west front and a heraldic ceiling from about 1520.
St Machar's Cathedral stands at the northern end of Old Aberdeen, beside Seaton Park. Legend says St Machar founded a church here in the 6th century. The surviving nave and twin-spired west front were mostly built in the 14th and 15th centuries. It is one of the few medieval cathedrals in Scotland still in use, now as a parish church of the Church of Scotland. The wooden heraldic ceiling above the nave, dating from about 1520, is a must-see. It is painted with the coats of arms of 48 European monarchs, Scottish nobles and bishops. The churchyard outside has many old gravestones. Entry is free, though donations are welcome. Visitors are asked not to tour the church during services. Getting there: take bus 1, 2 or 20 from the city centre for about 15 minutes. It can be combined with King's College, Old Aberdeen High Street and the Brig o' Balgownie for a half-day walking tour.
Opening hours
About 10:00 AM–4:00 PM (except Sunday service times; check website)
Nearby sights
- King's College & Old Aberdeen
- Brig o' Balgownie & Seaton Park
- Marischal College
- Aberdeen Art Gallery
- Provost Skene's House
- Kirk of St Nicholas
- Union Street & Castlegate
- Aberdeen Maritime Museum