Architect: Dr John Honeyman (1831 - 1914)
Opened for public worship on Sunday October 7, 1877
Severly damaged by fire on Thursday December 3, 1998
St Philip's is a friendly community church by the seaside with a striking edifice.
Built from Binney Stone in Early Decorated style by Dr. J. Honeyman, it was completed in 1877.
There is a 165ft spire over a lofty belfry and inside there is an impressive interior with fine
stained glass windows and carved pillars.
The people of Portobello and Joppa were to see the first air raid over Great Britain.
On 16th October 1939, German aircraft attempting to bomb the Forth Bridge, hit Portobello.
During this daring daylight raid, the roof top dog fight caused damage to houses in Morton Street.
One of the houses which was damaged, belonged to Lord Provost Henry Steele.
The Luftwaffe pilots that were shot down and killed during this action were buried in Portobello
Cemetery after a service in St. Philip's Church. These pilots were the first enemy casualties to
be buried on British soil.
On the evening of Thursday 3rd December 1998, a devastating fire ripped through the
building, completely destroying the roof and much of the interior of the church.