Description

The Mortuary Chapel was designed by Patrick Allan-Fraser as a memorial to his late wife Elizabeth and her deceased parents John Fraser and Elizabeth Parrot Fraser. Work began in 1875 based on an outline plan by Allan-Fraser to which he added details as building progressed.

Everyone who visits quickly realises that this is a remarkable building, possibly the most unusual and most instantly appealing of the many fine buildings within Arbroath. However, it is also very important on a national scale. It could claim to be one of the best buildings of its date in Scotland.

The building is also notable for its eclectic mix of styles, including reference to Scottish, English and possibly other precedents from East European Gothic. Every part of the building is important because every part received great care in design.

The Mortuary Chapel is located in the Western Cemetery about 25 minutes walk from Hospitalfield.

The chapel has one step on entering and the upper levels are up a number of stairs.

Dogs are not allowed inside the mortuary chapel (unless an assistance/guide dog).

Opening Times

It is possible to visit the interior of the Mortuary Chapel through the weekly tour of the Chapel. This takes place at 3pm every Saturday from 15 April to 28 October 2023. Cost – £10 per person. Children under 12 always go free.

Free Second Saturdays: On the second Saturday of each month Tours, Garden & Fernery entry is free. Even on Free Second Saturdays booking is recommended.

If you are interested to visit Hospitalfield House and Garden that day, there is an Adult Combined Saturday Ticket at £25. We recommend you book a table in the café at Hospitalfield for lunch.

If you are a group of 6 or more and our opening times don’t suit you, please contact us and we may be able to arrange a special tour for you

View a virtual tour of the Mortuary Chapel led by volunteers Blythe Stockdale and Vika Buharova.