Parish of Stobo and Drumelzier
Stobo Kirk
Drumelzier Kirk
Welcome to the parishes of Stobo and Drumelzier, united in 1951, which lie in the Upper Tweeddale National Scenic Area. The John Buchan Walkway and Merlin Trail both pass through this Valley bringing many visitors to enjoy the scenery as well as Stobo Castle Health Spa and the Dawyck Botanic Garden, which are within the parish, and are the major employers here.
Agriculture is important with sheep and cattle being the main activities. Stobo is also home to skilled craftsmen – a silversmith, a cabinetmaker and maker of musical instruments.
Stobo Kirk
Stobo Kirk is a building of great architectural beauty and history. As parts of the present Kirk date from the 12th century, it is one of the oldest churches in Scotland still in regular use. According to tradition, it stands on the site of an even older church founded by Saint Kentigern, also known as Saint Mungo, in the sixth century. The church is open every day and visited regularly, as seen in the visitors book.
The congregation is warm and friendly and at the end of the Sunday service, coffee is served to enable time for a “catch-up” chat. Several members live in Peebles or further afield but come to Stobo for the friendly atmosphere or the beauty of the building. Events are held in the form of concerts or talks to encourage others in the community to join us and to feel welcome in the church.
Drumelzier Kirk
Drumelzier Kirk dates from the early 16th century but again there was an earlier building on the site. Regular worship no longer takes place in Drumelzier but there is a well-attended candlelit service every Christmas, occasional services at other times of the year and the church is available for weddings and funerals. Visitors come from all over the world to search for their ancestors’ graves in the graveyard. Drumelzier had its own Minister until 1951 when it was united with Stobo. The 1921 Census showed 186 living within the parish but the population today is nearer 50.
For more information contact our Session Clerk: Jane Gillham Tel: 01721 720910 Email jane_gillham@hotmail.com
The congregation of Stobo and Drumelzier provide financial support for an Intergenerational Skills Share Group which is held every Friday at the MacFarlane Hall in Peebles. Volunteers from the church work with staff from Borders Regional Council Social Work Department to provide a welcoming atmosphere to those who attend the group.
Coffee mornings are held on a regular monthly basis. Proceeds are given to the Peeblesshire Foodbank. Stobo and Drumelzier also make financial donations to the foodbank each month.
Robin Crichton gives a talk on Merlin’s connections with Stobo and Drumelzier
Performance by Nomad Beat