St Ethernan's Church, Rathen

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In the old graveyard stands the ruined 17th Century parish church of Rathen, built on the site of earlier churches. The earliest is said to have been founded by St Ethernan or Eddran in the 6th Century AD, although nothing now survives.

The present church was built on a T-plan. The south wall of the nave and west gable survive, with a lozenge-shaped sundial dated 1625 visible on the south wall. A large birdcage bellcote was added to the west gable in 1782, inscribed "L.A.S." for the Saltoun family. The south aisle also survives, lower than the nave, with a 1646 datestone and three other carved stone panels over the doorway, likely later additions.

The ancestors of Edward Grieg, the composer, are buried here. 

Limited on-site parking

  • Opening Times
    Open All Year
  • Facilities
    • Parking