Church Overview

A rare survival of a quite exceptional unaltered Scots Parish Kirk of 1836. Situated on a rugged and exposed site, commanding views over the Bay of Skaill with Skara Brae in the distance. A simple lime-washed building, the church’s only exterior ornamentation is a low bellcote with a ball finial. The interior is dominated by a towering pulpit reaching to gallery height, flanked by round-headed windows. The austere space powerfully evokes the experience of Presbyterian worship in the 19th century when over 500 packed the building – each allowed a mere 18 inches of pew. Acquired by Historic Churches Scotland in 1998 and extensively repaired, receiving a Europa Nostra award for conservation in 2004.

Services

Occasional services, weddings and funerals by arrangement. For arranging services, please telephone Historic Churches Scotland on 0131 563 5135.

Opening Arrangements

Open April to October 10.00am-6.00pm, November to March by arrangement, telephone Historic Churches Scotland on 0131 563 5135

Disclaimer

The information about churches in Scotland’s Churches Scheme has been provided by the congregations or taken from the Historic Scotland list and published sources, in particular, the Buildings of Scotland volumes and the RIAS Illustrated Architectural Guides. To contact this specific church please complete the Contact this Church form above. The information is not authoritative; please contact Scotland’s Churches Trust to let us know of any errors or omissions.