Inverness Cathedral (St Andrew's)
Inverness Cathedral, dedicated to St Andrew, is the red-stone Gothic Revival cathedral on the west bank of the River Ness. Built between 1866 and 1869, it was the first new Protestant cathedral completed in Britain since the Reformation, and it is an easy, rewarding stop on a riverside walk through the city.
Photos
Inverness Cathedral, dedicated to St Andrew
History and design
Inverness architect Alexander Ross designed the cathedral in red Tarradale stone, with nave columns of polished Peterhead granite. The plans included two tall spires, but money ran out and they were never built, which explains the squared-off towers. It is the mother church of the Scottish Episcopal Diocese of Moray, Ross and Caithness. The congregation began as a mission on the other side of the river in 1853.
What to look for
The stained glass is by Hardman & Co, including the great west window of Christ in Majesty, which commemorates Bishop Robert Eden. The tower holds a ring of ten bells, noted as the most northerly change-ringing peal in a church anywhere, so listen out on practice nights and Sundays.
Visiting
The cathedral is open daily and visitors can take tours. Daily prayers and Sunday services are also livestreamed. There is a café and shop on site, making it a natural pause on the riverside path. From here, walk upstream to the Ness Islands or cross the river towards the castle and city centre. Evening light on the red stone makes the riverside view from Ness Bank especially attractive.
Highlights
- First new Protestant cathedral completed in Britain since the Reformation
- Built 1866-1869 to designs by Alexander Ross
- Hardman & Co stained glass
- Ring of ten bells
- Café and shop on site
Good to know
- Open to visitors daily, with tours available.
- Services are held daily; visit quietly during worship.
- Sunday services and daily prayers are livestreamed.
Frequently asked questions
Nearby
Sources: invernesscathedral.org · en.wikipedia.org