As Old St Peter’s Kirk is located in the small coastal town of Thurso on the iconic NC500 route, it attracts a lot of visitors each year from all over the world. Our dedicated volunteers are always happy to provide guests with information about what we do and share the stories that make the Kirk so special to the local community.

We always love meeting new people and reading all the lovely, kind messages in our guest book. Our volunteers are there most Sundays or when there are cruise ships visiting, and provide free tours, information and leaflets in several languages.

So if you’re interested in a trip to Kirk, here are just a few things to know before you go:

● It has been there since medieval times! The plaque states it was founded circa 1220, but it was possibly used as a religious site before 1120!

● Throughout history, it was repurposed, extended and adapted for different town needs and changing religions. Evidence of this can still be seen today!

● Norse runes found here suggest the site may have been a Norse Graveyard before the Kirk was built!

● The tower was used as a prison in the early 17th/18th centuries! Eagle-eyed visitors might spot the remains of the jougs used to hold people guilty of crimes deemed unacceptable to civil or church morals at this time.

● There is a small memorial to Reverend William Munro, who once claimed he encountered a mermaid in Reay.

Please Note: The Kirk is roofless and contains many uneven surfaces, meaning tours may vary due to weather conditions/ maintenance.

Old St Peters Kirk Preservation Association is a charity dedicated to the upkeep of this 1220 medieval church. Registered Scottish Charity: SCO48879