Description

The monument consists of a rectangular chapel with overall dimensions of 14.2m from E to W and 6m from N to S. The side walls stand to a height of nearly 2m in places, while the gables are still relatively complete.

It is lit by two windows in the S wall, and a single high window in each gable; the entrance is through the N wall. A panel in the E gable was inscribed with the date 1683, and was embellished with arms relating to the family of Aiton of that Ilk and their connections with the Wemyss and Lindsay families

The chapel is within a small walled enclosure at the centre of a field to the W of Ayton farm house. It presumably served a house on the site of the present early 19th century Ayton farmhouse, and there are still walls adjacent to the farmhouse with mouldings that appear to be of 17th-century date.

The area to be scheduled includes the remains descriobed above and the area around enclosed by the walled enclosure (although the walls of the enclosure are themselves excluded). The area measures 23m along its long axis, by 16m transversely.

Source: Historic Environment Scotland

Statement of Scheduling

The monument is of national importance as a rare example of a chapel built (or rebuilt) in the early 1680s, a time of a great significance for the history of reformed worship in Scotland.

Source: Historic Environment Scotland

Sources

Bibliography

RCAHMS records the monument as NO 21 NE 22.

Reference:

RCAHMS (1922) Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland, 'Inventory of Fife'.

Source: Historic Environment Scotland