Thomas Coats Memorial Church
A magnificent Gothic Revival church in Paisley, known for its iconic crown steeple and as a former 'Baptist Cathedral of Europe.'
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Thomas Coats Memorial Church
Best Time
Experience its full splendor
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magnificent Gothic Revival church in Paisley, known for its iconic crown steeple and as a former 'Baptist Cathedral of Europe.'
"A beautiful setting with professional service; highly recommended for couples who want an effortless, high-energy celebration."
Check Event Schedule
Confirm if there are any concerts or weddings before visiting to avoid disappointment.
Outlander Fan Spot
Visit this iconic filming location for 'Outlander' Season 5.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Crown Steeple
Exterior
A dominant feature of Paisley's skyline, this striking steeple rises 60 meters, showcasing the church's magnificent Gothic architecture.
Outlander Filming Location
Exterior and Interior
Step into the world of 'Outlander' as this church served as a Boston church in Season 5, adding a layer of cinematic history to your visit.
Architectural Grandeur
Interior
Explore the stunning interiors, once the heart of the 'Baptist Cathedral of Europe,' offering a glimpse into its past glory.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Beyond the Architecture
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Event Schedule
Confirm if there are any concerts or weddings before visiting to avoid disappointment.
Outlander Fan Spot
Visit this iconic filming location for 'Outlander' Season 5.
Architectural Gem
Admire the stunning Gothic architecture and the impressive crown steeple.
Wedding Venue
A highly recommended venue for weddings, known for its beauty and service.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Event Schedule
Confirm if there are any concerts or weddings before visiting to avoid disappointment.
Outlander Fan Spot
Visit this iconic filming location for 'Outlander' Season 5.
Architectural Gem
Admire the stunning Gothic architecture and the impressive crown steeple.
Wedding Venue
A highly recommended venue for weddings, known for its beauty and service.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Thomas Coats Memorial Church for its breathtaking architectural beauty and its role as a stunning venue for weddings and concerts. The professional staff and excellent catering receive high marks, making it a highly recommended location for events. Some visitors note that access may be limited outside of scheduled events.
"I DJ’d at Adriana & Kenneth’s twilight wedding at Coats Paisley and the event & venue were outstanding. Smooth load-in, great acoustics, helpful coordination and attentive staff, the night ran flawlessly from first dance to last. Guests from Scotland and Slovakia kept the floor packed (and kindly introduced me to Goral Malinovica!). Catering was excellent - my pre-set steak pie hit the spot. A beautiful setting with professional service; highly recommended for couples who want an effortless, high-energy celebration. 10/10 - Ayrshire Wedding & Events"
kristian keegan
"My husband and I got married here at the start of September. We had originally planned not to have a big wedding, but the moment we walked into Coats, we completely changed our minds – we instantly knew this was where we wanted to say “I do.”
From the very beginning, the staff were excellent. Any questions we had were answered straight away, and the Facebook group run by the team was a fantastic resource, full of tips and advice from other couples. In the lead-up to the big day, Paulina was an absolute star – so kind, funny, and caring. Nothing was ever too much trouble for her, and she made the whole planning process feel so much easier.
On our special day, every member of staff went above and beyond to make sure everything was perfect from start to finish. The catering was truly first-class – our guests couldn’t stop complimenting how amazing the food was.
I would honestly recommend Coats to anyone considering getting married. The venue is stunning, the staff are incredible, and the whole experience was completely hassle-free. What more could you possibly want?"
Cheryl McNaughton
"Lovely church ⛪️ up on a hill where to congregate & pray to God for your soul.
2.10.25
Beautiful setting for a religious festival."
Nirvana Dutt
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Thomas Coats Memorial Church is located at the west end of High Street in Paisley, Scotland. It's easily accessible by public transport, with bus routes serving the High Street. If arriving by train, Paisley Gilmour Street station is a short walk away.
Limited on-street parking may be available nearby, but it's advisable to check local parking regulations. Public transport is generally recommended for ease of access.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
As the church is primarily an event venue, general public access might be limited outside of scheduled events. It's best to check their official website or contact them directly for information on public visiting hours or if tours are available.
Opening hours vary as it's often used for private events like weddings and concerts. Check for specific event listings or inquire about private tour availability.
While it's a popular wedding and concert venue, some visitors have explored its reception hall.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
It's renowned for its stunning Gothic architecture, particularly its crown steeple, and its historical significance as the 'Baptist Cathedral of Europe.' It's also a notable filming location for the TV series 'Outlander.'
Absolutely! The church's magnificent architecture, both inside and out, makes it a dream for photographers. The crown steeple and intricate details offer endless opportunities for stunning shots.
Built in memory of Thomas Coats, a prominent thread manufacturer and philanthropist, the church was intended to be the 'Baptist Cathedral of Europe.' It stands as a testament to Paisley's industrial past and philanthropic spirit.
Yes, it's a highly sought-after venue for weddings, praised for its beautiful setting, professional staff, and excellent catering.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the church itself may not have public dining facilities, it is known for its excellent catering services for events, particularly weddings. Nearby Paisley offers a variety of restaurants and cafes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If visiting on an event day, the atmosphere can be quite lively. Consider checking for any family-friendly concerts or events that might be scheduled. For 'Outlander' fans in the family, pointing out the church as a filming location can add an extra layer of excitement.
It's a great opportunity to discuss the history of Paisley and the role of figures like Thomas Coats in its development. Remember to check for any specific visitor guidelines or tour availability that might be suitable for younger visitors.📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Photographers can capture stunning exterior views from various angles, especially during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset. Inside, the grand scale, intricate detailing, and stained-glass windows (if accessible) provide a wealth of photographic subjects.
The church's use as an event venue means that lighting conditions can vary, offering unique challenges and creative possibilities. 🎬 'Outlander' Fans
Imagine Claire and Jamie walking these grounds or scenes unfolding within its walls as you explore. While the church's exterior is most recognizable from the show, understanding its historical context as a former 'Baptist Cathedral of Europe' adds depth to the experience.
It's a chance to connect with the show's production and appreciate how such a striking Scottish landmark was transformed for the screen. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvel of Paisley
Built as a memorial to the philanthropist Thomas Coats, a key figure in Paisley's industrial textile history, the church stands as a testament to the town's prosperous past and the generosity of its benefactors. Its intricate stonework and imposing presence make it a must-see for architecture enthusiasts. Inside, the church continues to impress with its grand scale and detailed craftsmanship. Although no longer an active place of worship, it has been beautifully preserved and is frequently used for special events, including concerts and weddings.
Visitors often remark on the fantastic atmosphere within its walls, making it a memorable experience even for those not attending a specific event. Beyond its architectural significance, the church holds a special place in popular culture. It famously served as a filming location for the acclaimed TV series 'Outlander,' doubling as a Boston church in scenes set in the 1960s.
This connection adds another layer of appeal for fans of the show, allowing them to step onto a piece of their favorite fictional world. A Venue for Memorable Events
Reviewers often highlight the first-class catering as a standout feature, with guests frequently complimenting the delicious food.
For those looking to host an event, the church offers a blend of historical grandeur and modern event management. Its reputation for smooth operations, from load-in to the final dance, ensures a flawless execution.
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