Whispers of history linger here at St Ninian’s Church & Manse. Can you imagine the lives lived within these walls?
St Ninian’s Church & Manse stands proudly a testament to centuries of Leith’s rich past. Its story begins not in 1816 with the construction of the current North Leith Parish Church but much earlier. In 1493 Abbot Robert Bellenden of Holyrood Abbey built St Ninian’s Chapel. This small chapel on the Water of Leith marked the start of St Ninian’s long history. It was rebuilt after the Reformation and eventually became the parish church of North Leith in 1606.
The manse itself is remarkable. It’s one of the oldest buildings in Leith. Perhaps the oldest. Built alongside St Ninian’s Chapel the manse was significantly expanded in 1600. A striking five-story stair tower with a Dutch-style belfry was added in 1675. The inscription ‘BLESSED AR THEY YAT HEIR YE VORD OF GOD AND KEIP IT LUK XI 1600’ still reflects its religious purpose.
The growing population of Leith led to a new church in Madeira Street in 1816. St Ninian’s Chapel and its manse were then sold. The church was adapted into a granary before becoming Quayside Mills. The manse served as offices. The site fell into disrepair during the mid-20th century. It was even considered for demolition.
Thankfully St Ninian’s Manse was saved. A careful restoration project began in 1996. The poor-quality later additions were removed to reveal the original historic structures. Today St Ninian’s Manse houses offices. The adjacent Quayside Mills are now apartments offering stunning views. The restoration perfectly blends the old and the new. The original stonework limewash and historic fireplaces remain. The beautiful gilded copper finial and weathervane atop the belfry are replicas of the originals.
The restoration of St Ninian’s Manse and Quayside Mills is a fantastic example of preserving history. They stand as a symbol of Leith’s past its industrial rise and its enduring spirit. As we move on remember the long rich history of St Ninian’s Church & Manse. It is a special place in Edinburgh.