Three architectural campaigns by notable designers created a compact Gothic church with a richly layered sanctuary and Lady Chapel.
Quick facts
- Date
- 1879; chancel 1889; Lady Chapel 1901
- Architect / designer
- Dunn and Hansom; John Kinross; Robert Lorimer
- Type
- Gothic Revival Roman Catholic church
- Designation
- Listed building, Category B (LB38750)
- OS grid reference
- NT 55305 85004
Architecture, archaeology and continuing use
Freestone walls, lancets and a traceried western window establish a simple Gothic nave. Kinross’s taller chancel and Lorimer’s projecting Lady Chapel enrich the plan, while stained glass, marble and wrought iron distinguish the interior and gateway.
Its story
The parish church was built in 1879 by Dunn and Hansom. John Kinross added the chancel and sacristy in 1889, and Robert Lorimer designed the Lady Chapel in 1901; worship continues under the Roman Catholic Archdiocese.
Why it is included
The building combines active faith with work by three important architectural practices and adds Roman Catholic history to the burgh narrative.
What to notice
- Traceried triangular west window.
- Relationship between nave, chancel and Lady Chapel.
- Decorative iron gateway and stained glass.
Reading the surroundings
This is an active church. Attend advertised Mass or arrange a visit, respect prayer and services, and seek permission before photography or entering non-public areas.
Timeline
- 1879 Dunn and Hansom completed the original church.
- 1889 A new sanctuary campaign substantially extended the first building.
- 1901 Robert Lorimer created the Lady Chapel.
- 2026 The parish continues regular Saturday and Sunday Mass.
What we know — and what remains uncertain
Service times and access outside worship can change; the parish’s current notice is authoritative.
Sources & further reading
- Historic Environment Scotland: Our Lady Star of the Sea Church, LB38750 — Designation status, mapped location, date, fabric and architectural or archaeological interest.
- Our Lady Star of the Sea parish — Current parish identity, worship times, address and contact information.
- Scotland’s Churches Trust: Our Lady Star of the Sea — Independent architectural overview and opening arrangements.
Location
OS grid reference NT 55305 85004 · Location confidence: High: the national designation supplies an official mapped National Grid Reference; the independent source confirms the Place relationship, history or current identity. · Select the marker to open its satellite view in Google Maps. On desktop, drag Pegman (the yellow figure) onto a blue road. On mobile, turn on the Street View layer and tap a blue road. Other photo markers may be user-contributed.
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