Scotland’s Churches: How to Care for Churchyards

Thursday 29 August, 12 - 1.30pm

Did you know that churchyards in Scotland are often not owned by the church? With many churches due to be sold over the coming years, and new owners taking these buildings on, this talk will investigate some of the common ownership scenarios, problems and legislation relating to graveyards.  

Our speaker, Dr Susan Buckham, is an expert in Scottish graveyards and will share case studies and examples of community, private and local authority ownership of these spaces. She’ll also explore the maintenance of gravestones, monuments, tombs and other structures. 

Dr Buckham will be joined online by Janet Beveridge, from the Kilmaronock Old Kirk Trust, who will share how they’ve worked through some of these tricky issues relating to graveyard management. 

Who is it for? 

This talk continues the SPAB Scotland series investigating practical measures for those thinking about taking on a church for sale, whether privately or as part of a community group. 

It may be particularly useful to community groups who are taking on a church building and who are unsure of their responsibilities to the graveyard. It may also interest potential owners who want to better understand what can be achieved on the ground surrounding the building they may purchase.  

Topics we will cover  

• What legislation exists in Scotland on graveyards and their care? 

• Who is responsible for the care of graveyards and what does this involve? 

• Case studies including Greyfriars Kirkyard, Edinburgh 

IT requirements 

You will need a computer, phone or other device connected to the Internet. 

Speakers 

Dr Susan Buckham, Graveyard Project Manager for Edinburgh World Heritage 

Dr Buckham is a specialist in Scottish graveyards and is currently authoring a consultation on the community use of Greyfriars Kirkyard, which is to be joined with St Cuthberts, another Edinburgh church. 

Janet Beveridge, Kilmaronock Old Kirk Trust 

Accessibility 

Anything we can do to make this talk more accessible for you? Please email scotland@spab.org.uk.

Booking Terms and Conditions

Image: Duncan Mausoleum at Lundie Parish Kirk © Lucy Stewart

Kilmaronock Old Kirkyard © Kilmaronock Old Kirk Trust