Thurso, Wilson Lane, Old St Peter's Church And Burial-ground, Medieval church ruins in Thurso, Scotland
Old St Peter's Church stands as stone ruins without a roof, revealing a large building that once dominated this space. The eastern section shows traces of a vaulted choir, and numerous graves surround the remains on the ground.
The church was established around 1220 by Bishop Gilbert Murray as the parish church serving the town. It remained in use until closure in 1832, after which it gradually fell into disrepair.
The burial ground displays gravestones spanning different periods that show the names and dates of local families. These markers reveal how people in Thurso marked their connection to this place across generations.
The site is freely accessible at any time of day or night without requiring reservations. Visitors should expect open-air conditions with limited shelter and challenging terrain for those with mobility difficulties.
The structure features an uncommon three-story chancel and a staircase tower connected by a long vaulted passage running through the building. This rare architectural arrangement shows the ambition that went into this medieval building, something not often seen in small parish churches.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
