Skelmorlie Aisle And Burial Ground, Largs

Skelmorlie Aisle and Burial Ground, built in 1636, was originally the north transept of the old church in Largs, which was demolished in 1802. The aisle is constructed from coursed ashlar and features an entrance on the west wall with an ogival-headed door that has roll moulding. Above the door is a square plaque with a crest, flanked by single windows. There are two similar windows on the east wall and a window with geometric tracery on the north gable. The building has angle margins with decorative quoins, straight skews, thistle and fleur-de-lis finials, and a slate roof.

Inside, the aisle boasts a richly painted ceiling signed by J S Stalker and dated 1638. The timber barrel-vaulted roof is divided by painted ribs that imitate rib-vaulting, with panels in between displaying biblical texts, zodiac signs, and symbolic figures. The four seasons are represented in the corners, with 'summer' featuring a view of Largs town and the old church. The floor is on two levels, with the upper level raised over a partially sunk burial vault, accessed by steps with a balustraded parapet.

An elaborate Renaissance carved stone tomb is present, with a canopy raised above a panelled and pilastered platform, supported by four pairs of double Corinthian columns. There are two intricate outer entablatures linked centrally by a raised arch with elaborate brackets, coffered soffits, and an entablature adorned with pinnacles and a decorative pediment. Symbolic figures are positioned over the angles.

The burial ground is enclosed by rubble-built cemetery walls, featuring a segmental-headed ashlar gateway to the west, dated 1636, which is approached by stone steps.