HISTORIC CHURCH BEGINS NEW ERA AS MUST-VISIT TOURIST ATTRACTION

The new exhibition brings the church’s rich history to life. Image: Janie Meikle Bland.

A favourite place of worship of the Stuart Kings and Queens, Stirling’s Church of the Holy Rude is hoping it can capture the hearts of modern-day tourists with a captivating new exhibition and a dedicated team of tour guides.

The showcase, detailing the church’s remarkable role in history, marks the first major step in the Holy Rude’s evolution into a must visit tourist attraction; following a unique partnership forged between The Church of Scotland and Stirling District Tourism earlier this year.

The Holy Rude, nestled in the shadow of Stirling Castle, is Scotland’s only active church to have witnessed a royal coronation; with James VI, son of Mary Queen of Scots, being crowned there in 1567. Renowned religious leader John Knox also preached there.

Ancient relics housed within its walls, include a bell that was rung to celebrate both Scotland’s victory at the Battle of Bannockburn and Bruce's funeral mass as his coffin passed through Stirling on its way to Dunfermline Abbey. 

The new exhibition brings the church’s rich history to life, showcasing its royal connections and the significant spiritual role it has played in the burgh for nearly 600 years. 

Image: Ellis Mills.

Chair of Stirling District Tourism, David Black said: "Our groundbreaking partnership with the Church of the Holy Rude promises to establish a lasting legacy of exceptional visitor experiences, while contributing to the Church's long-term sustainability and preserving its identity as an iconic place of worship for generations to come.

“The launch of our first exhibition, alongside a new website and online booking system, marks a significant milestone in this remarkable journey.

“Through interactive displays and captivating narratives, the showcase unveils the untold stories of the church and the historic medieval quarter that surrounds it.

“We hope it will act as a catalyst to attract visitors to the old town, where tales from the past await around every corner.”

The architectural wonders of the church, include a nave and tower dating back to 1456 and one of the few surviving medieval open hammer beam roofs in the country. Image: Whyler Photos.

The new exhibition masterfully weaves together the threads of history, narrating the church's sacred role and its profound affiliations with royalty and the ancient Royal Burgh of Stirling.

Susan Ross, Project Lead for Stirling District Tourism said: "It has been a pleasure to work with the Reverend Alan Miller and members of the Kirk Session at the Church of the Holy Rude over the past year.

“Together, we’ve developed a shared understanding of how we could improve our offering to visitors, so that the Church of the Holy Rude becomes a must-see visitor attraction for locals and tourists alike.

“We’re looking forward to developing our events programme and to partnering with local and international tour operators to raise awareness about this amazing hidden gem.

“As we look ahead to 2024, we’re excited to build upon the strong foundations we’ve laid this year, working collaboratively to create a world-class visitor attraction at the heart of Stirling's Old Town."

Although the Holy Rude was built in the 15th century, the site’s religious significance stretches back to the time of King David I who erected Stirling’s earliest parish church here nearly 900 years ago when the Royal Burgh of Stirling was formed.

Church of Holy Rude Minister, Reverend Alan Miller said: "The Kirk Session is delighted that we have been able to enter into a new partnership with Stirling District Tourism as a means to securing the future of this beautiful, historic building.

“It is our hope that it will raise the profile of the church, not only as an important visitor attraction, but also as a living place of worship to continue supporting the mission of the Kirk to Stirling and the wider world.”

In tandem with the new exhibition, Stirling District Tourism has created a user-friendly website, allowing visitors to buy tickets online (£5 adults, £4 concessions, under fives go free).

Profits from ticket sales will be reinvested into conservation and enhancements to improve the visitor experience.

Image: Charlie Perkins.

For further information see: www.churchoftheholyrude.co.uk