Located in Inverness, United Kingdom, the East Church is a historic Category B listed building that stands as a testament to local Scottish religious history and architectural evolution. Originally opened as a chapel of ease in 1798, the structure was rebuilt in 1852-1853 and later enhanced with an impressive street frontage added in 1897-1898 by architects Ross & Macbeth.
Over the centuries, this former Church of Scotland parish church navigated complex historical shifts, including leaving during the Disruption of 1843 to become Inverness East Free Church, joining the United Free Church of Scotland in 1900, and eventually returning to the Church of Scotland in 1929. During your visit, you can admire its notable architectural features while reflecting on its deep community ties—which historically spanned Inverness city centre, Longman, Drakies, and Raigmore, where the congregation operated an outreach post called 'The Shack.' The church held its final service on Sunday 5 March 2023 prior to a parish unification.
A new chapter began in 2024 when the building was purchased by Cultarlann Inbhir Nis, a charity dedicated to creating a Gaelic cultural centre, making it an intriguing landmark to observe while exploring Inverness.
What to see at East Church, Inverness
- Category B listed building originally opened as a chapel of ease in 1798
- Striking street frontage designed and added by Ross & Macbeth in 1897-1898
- Rich history spanning the Disruption of 1843 and various church unions
- Purchased in 2024 by Cultarlann Inbhir Nis to establish a Gaelic cultural centre
Visiting tips
Take time to view the exterior street frontage on your tour of central Inverness to appreciate the 19th-century craftsmanship of architects Ross & Macbeth.
How long: 30-60 minutes · Best time: Morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
East Church, Inverness is easy to reach on Inverness’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Inverness Castle and Eden Court Theatre. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Inverness travel guide.
See the full Inverness travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.