The village of Lumphanan is
situated some 24 miles west of Aberdeen. The church, built in 1762, is
central to the parish, but approximately half a mile south-west of the
village. The adjacent manse, built in 1782 and enlarged in 1828 is substantial and would indicate that the parish was a wealthy one.
The Statistical Account of 1843 indicated that the glebe extended to 7½
acres - a reasonably generous size for the exclusive use of the minister
and his family. The area of Lumphanan is steeped in history and has
almost certainly been occupied by man since the earliest times. It is
said that Macbeth (of Dunsinan fame) was killed here.
The church of Lumphanan is typical in design but alas is no longer a
place of worship. The manse, on an adjacent
plot, is now private housing.
The graveyard has approximately 150 stones, a number of which are in
a later extension to the north of the grounds. Many of the gravestones
are 20th century but there are also some from the
19th century and earlier. The grounds are in good condition with the
grass reasonably well maintained. Mature trees shelter the area from the
worst of the weather. Many of the stones are difficult to read due to
moss and lichen growth. In winter I would imagine it is quite a cold and
damp spot as it's low lying.
Access to the site is not too difficult - once you find it! Leaving
the centre of Lumphanan to the south you turn right on Main Road and a few
hundred yards on the right you should see the church a little distance
back from the road. There is an access road just before it. Turn right
down this and park on the grass verge leading up to the manse and
church.
An interesting site in an area of great historical significance. My
advice is to find out a little bit of the history before visiting - it
will enhance the experience!
Interesting and well worth a visit.
If you require a specific gravestone photo from the above send me your relevant details and
I'll e-mail you what I have. Contact me
here
Click on photos below to enlarge
