One of Scotland’s most unique architectural attractions is celebrating a £100,000 funding boost that will secure its future. St Conan’s Kirk, situated on the picturesque shores of Loch Awe, in Argyll and Bute, was voted one of the top 10 Scottish buildings of the last 100 years in a 2016 RIAS public poll. Steeped in history and heritage, the Grade A-listed building is regarded by many as being one of the area’s leading attractions.

It has now been awarded the “Our Heritage” National Lottery Fund and Historic Environmental Scotland grant that will allow trustees to revitalise the existing building and continue works to preserve the integrity of the kirk and maintain its future. The funding will address essential repairs to the kirk roof, with work expected to start later this summer and be completed by spring 2019. In addition, a programme of heritage activities, exhibitions, events and guided tours during the repairs will help people find out more about St Conan’s and how this award will safeguard Scotland’s national heritage.

Rosie Campbell-Preston, chairwoman of the Friends of St Conan’s Kirk, said: “The trustees and friends of St Conan’s are delighted to have been awarded £100,000 from the Heritage Lottery Fund. We are all energised and enthusiastic by this announcement and how it will positively impact the future of the kirk and the local community.” Lucy Casot, Head of HLF Scotland, said: Scotland’s historic and diverse places of worship are so often at the heart of our communities. Thanks to National Lottery players HLF funds urgent structural repairs and also improved facilities and visitor information. St. Conan’s Kirk is an excellent example of  how HLF can help conserve a much loved building so it can continue to serve its local community. Designed and built by Walter Douglas Campbell, the kirk’s highlights include the Bruce Chapel, which  contains a bone fragment belonging to Robert the Bruce. The church was gifted to The St Conan’s Church Trust in 1884 and is now supported by the Friends of St Conan’s Kirk SCIO, which was formed in 2014.

About the Heritage Lottery Fund
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