The tower and spire of the church with its four clock faces is a focal point in the neighbourhood, and can be seen from many miles around. Its restoration will safeguard its endurance and ensure its distinctive place on the city skyline of Aberdeen.

The church building, completed in 1874, was designed by the prolific local architect Duncan McMillan. Positioned as it is at the top of a hill, it has always been the most obvious landmark in the area and provides a geographical focus that has enabled Ferryhill to retain its characteristic of a “village” within the city – a community gathered round its parish church. The project will repair and restore the fabric of the tower, renovate the clock faces and carry out the necessary work to maintain its condition for future generations.  

The superb site for the church was acquired by William Henderson, a local businessman who subsequently became Lord Provost of Aberdeen and was knighted by Queen Victoria. He donated the porch, with its distinctive trefoil stained glass window, which was later enlarged and in which his memorial can now be seen. The building from its inception was thus very much a local Ferryhill project.

Commenting on the award, the Session Clerk Lorna Glen said: “We are pleased and proud to have received the support of the Heritage Lottery Fund, and are confident that the project will be greatly appreciated by the local community which makes extensive use of the church buildings for a wide range of varied purposes.”

Colin McLean, Head of Heritage Lottery Fund Scotland, said: “Scotland has such a diverse range of churches, each one reflecting the social history of its community as well as the influences upon the country’s architecture. Ferryhill Parish Church stamps a sense of identity locally, while providing a venue for worship and many other community activities, so the Heritage Lottery Fund is delighted to give it support.”

Notes to editors

About Aberdeen Ferryhill Parish Church 
Ferryhill Parish Church is the place of worship for one of 37 Church of Scotland congregations in the Presbytery of Aberdeen. It is also an important community facility for several groups and organisations which make use of its buildings regularly, such as Ferryhill Primary School, Phoenix Theatre, Concordia String Orchestra, Girlguiding Scotland and Trinity Guildhall School of Music.

Further information

Please contact Lorna Glen, Session Clerk at Ferryhill Parish Church, on 01224 583 599 / fonthill42@sky.com.