Old High Church: Inverness' Ancient Spiritual Beacon
Oldest church in Inverness, where Celtic faith, Jacobite history, and riverside serenity converge on St Michael’s Mount.
Perched on St Michael’s Mount overlooking the River Ness, the Old High Church is Inverness’s oldest church and a site of continuous worship since Celtic times. Dating mainly from the 18th century with a 14th-century tower base, it holds deep historical significance as the place where St Columba preached to the Picts in 565 AD. The churchyard witnessed Jacobite prisoner executions after the 1746 Battle of Culloden, with musket ball marks still visible on its tower walls. Though closed for regular worship since 2022, its kirkyard remains open to visitors, offering a poignant glimpse into Highland history.
A brief summary to Old High Church
- Church St, Inverness, Inverness, IV1 1EY, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Friday 2 pm-4 pm
- Sunday 11 am-12:30 pm
Local tips
- Explore the historic kirkyard to discover centuries-old gravestones and musket ball marks on the tower from Jacobite executions.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the kirkyard terrain is uneven and can be slippery in wet weather.
- Visit on a Friday afternoon to join a guided tour and learn detailed stories about the church’s history.
- Bring a camera to capture panoramic views of the River Ness and Inverness from the church’s elevated position.
- Check opening times in advance, as the church interior is closed for regular worship since 2022, but the kirkyard is always accessible.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the Stagecoach Highland bus routes 11 or 12 from Inverness Bus Station to Church Street, approximately 15-20 minutes. Services run frequently during the day with fares around £2-£3. The stop is a short walk to the Old High Church. Note that buses may be less frequent on Sundays.
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Walking
From Inverness city centre, the Old High Church is a 10-15 minute walk along flat, paved streets. The route is accessible for most visitors but may be challenging for wheelchairs due to some uneven pavements near the kirkyard.
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Taxi
Local taxi services can reach the Old High Church from anywhere in Inverness within 5-10 minutes. Typical fares range from £5 to £10 depending on pickup location and time of day. Taxis offer a convenient option for visitors with mobility needs.
Old High Church location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
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Cold Weather
Discover more about Old High Church
Ancient Origins and Spiritual Legacy
The Old High Church stands on St Michael’s Mount, a low hill overlooking the River Ness in the heart of Inverness. This site has been sacred since at least 565 AD when St Columba, the Irish missionary credited with bringing Christianity to the Scottish Highlands, preached here to King Brude and the Pictish people. The church claims to be the cradle of Highland Christianity, with continuous worship on this spot for over 1,500 years. The oldest surviving part of the current structure is the base of the west tower, dating back to the 14th century, making it the oldest building in Inverness. The rest of the church was largely rebuilt between 1770 and 1772 in a dignified Gothic style, blending medieval foundations with 18th-century architecture.Historical Significance and Jacobite Connections
The Old High Church’s history is deeply intertwined with Scotland’s turbulent past. Following the 1746 Battle of Culloden, the final and decisive defeat of the Jacobite uprising, the church was used as a prison for Jacobite soldiers. Many prisoners were held in the tower under harsh conditions and were subsequently tried and executed in the kirkyard outside. The stone walls of the tower still bear musket ball marks from these grim events, serving as silent witnesses to the executions. This dark chapter adds a somber layer to the church’s story and connects it to the broader narrative of Highland resistance and loss.Architectural Features and Riverside Setting
The church’s Gothic architecture, with its sturdy stone walls and historic bell tower, commands attention on St Michael’s Mount. The tower houses the city’s old burgh clock and the curfew bell, which has rung daily for centuries, except during World War II. The elevated position offers panoramic views of the River Ness and Inverness city, enhancing the church’s serene and contemplative atmosphere. Despite the church’s closure for regular worship in 2022, the kirkyard remains accessible, allowing visitors to explore the historic graves and reflect on the centuries of faith and community life that unfolded here.Modern Transitions and Community Efforts
In recent years, the Old High Church congregation united with St Stephen’s Church, with regular services moving to the latter in 2022. The Old High Church building was sold to a charity dedicated to preserving its legacy and exploring new uses for the site. Community groups are actively working to maintain and restore the church, including efforts to repair the ancient tower and safeguard its heritage. The church’s connection to popular culture, notably its mention in the Outlander book series and TV adaptations, has also drawn interest from fans worldwide.Exploring the Kirkyard and Surroundings
The kirkyard adjacent to the church is a place of quiet reflection and historical intrigue. It contains gravestones dating back centuries and is the site of the Jacobite executions. Visitors can walk among these stones, sensing the weight of history and the passage of time. The grounds are uneven, so sturdy footwear is recommended. The peaceful riverside setting, combined with the church’s storied past, creates a unique atmosphere blending reverence, history, and natural beauty.Legacy of Faith and Highland Identity
The Old High Church symbolizes the enduring spirit of Inverness and the Highlands. From its ancient Celtic roots through medieval times and the Jacobite era to the present day, it has been a focal point of faith, community, and resilience. Its architecture, historical scars, and riverside location tell a story of continuity and change, inviting visitors to connect with Scotland’s rich cultural heritage and spiritual traditions.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
MacGregor's
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Blackfriars Inverness
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The Kings Highway - JD Wetherspoon
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Black Isle Bar & Rooms
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The Mustard Seed Restaurant
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Hootananny
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Aspendos
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Mangrove
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Greig St & Greig St Bridge
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River House
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Scotch & Rye
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Jacobite House
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Fàsaidh Tattoo
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The Auctioneers
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The White House
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Unmissable attractions to see
Leakey's Bookshop
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Miele's Gelateria Inverness
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Old Town Curiosities
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Greig Street Bridge
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Abertarff House
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The Junction Church Inverness
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Highland Buddhist Community
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City Sightseeing Inverness
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Loch Ness by Jacobite - Inverness Bus Station
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St Mary's Roman Catholic Church
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Inverness Gifts & Souvenirs
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Jesus House Inverness
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Bruce's roundabout
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Young's Auld Sweetie Shop
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The Victorian Market
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Essential places to dine
Thai Dining
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Rooftop Garden
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McBain’s by the River
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La Le Turkish Mediterranean restaurant
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Rose Street Foundry
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EscoBar - Taqueria & Cocktails
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Georges
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Salt’N’Fire
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The Brasserie
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Comfort Foods
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The Kitchen Restaurant
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Kool Runnings
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Coyote Burger
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Ash
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Zizzi - Inverness
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Ness Wear
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Triquerta Crafts
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Ortak Handmade Jewellery of Scotland
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Allsorts
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Victorian Gift Shop & Barber Shop
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Rohan Inverness - Outdoor Clothing & Walking Gear
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North Designerwear
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Far Fetched
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Cancer Research UK
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GLENEAGLES OF SCOTLAND
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Gifts & Souvenirs SALE
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Bluebells Of The Glen Souvenirs & Gifts Shop
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Ellerium Games
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Highland House of Fraser
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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The Phoenix Ale House
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R&Bs
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The Malt Room
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Highlander
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Market Bar
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Playback
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MacCallums Bar
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Platform 8
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The Exchange
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The Gunsmiths Bar
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Lauders
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Revolution Inverness
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Caledonian
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The Imperial
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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Seaforth Club
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Jackos Bar & Diner
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the Balavoulin
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The Winking Owl, Craft Ale Pub & Bar
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The Vault
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Mambos
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The Aviemore Inn pub and grill
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Woodshed Bar
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SUIE BAR
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The Pine Marten Bar
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Moray Jazz Club
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Shmelgin
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Historic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
