The Sanctuary Café
St Monans Auld Kirk
The Sanctuary Café
As the coastal path hugs the coast right beside the Auld Kirk, walkers are naturally drawn to take shelter, explore and wonder at this unique historic site. Whenever the doors are open, visitors come and are thrilled to witness the beautiful interior and find peace and light inside.
A Kirk with Cake?
Our future plans include establishing a café within the Kirk. What better place for villagers and visitors alike to have a friendly welcome and enjoy some excellent local produce-staying out of the weather on winter’s days or staring out at the sparkling sea in the summer.
Stay tuned for more as our plans and funding applications progress.
F.A.Q.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the café open?
Currently, and until further notice, the café will not be open. We aim to have some facilities until approximately November 2027, when the refurbishment work is due to start. Following this, from 2029 onward, we hope to be able to offer a simple cafe menu, a warm and welcoming space for gathering, and a heritage display area celebrating the rich history of the Auld Kirk.
Are there other opportunities to use the Kirk?
The Kirk will be available for services (such as life events like christenings, weddings and funerals) or as a venue for festivals, concerts and meetings. However, there are likely to be some limits to when the Kirk can be used, depending on refurbishments and access. Please enquire about availability.
What facilities are currently available?
Currently the Kirk has a toilet (accessible via stairs), electricity and a sound system. There is level access to the main space, however please note that sloped gravel paths link the parking area and Kirk.
Will the Kirk be open for visits?
Prior to full refurbishment, we plan to hold regular open days/ weekends throughout the year, as maintaining public access to this special place, especially to our local community, is a key part of our vision. If the Kirk is open when you are passing, do drop in a say hello. It is a beautiful building, a spiritual place and a peaceful haven to spend some time.
Is the Kirk available to all faiths and none?
Yes, everyone is welcome to visit and use the Kirk. We aim to keep part of the Kirk as a sacred place for contemplation and prayer.
Will the organ remain at the Kirk?
Any current visitors to the Kirk cannot miss the wonderful 1850 Thomas Robson organ, at the east end of the Kirk, which has been providing beautiful music since 1996. With the Kirk being repurposed and having to be financially viable, we will have to reconfigure the layout. This means returning the main focal point to the east end of the Kirk, as it was originally. In order to retain this sacred space, which we believe is vital to the Kirk and its visitors, we will sadly have to find a new home for the organ.