Former kirk now has hall mod cons...
Conversion of church in village is just heavenly, writes Dean Herbert
IT has served as a place of worship and a village hall during its 150-year history. But there is still much to be preached about when it comes to this home overlooking the Moray Firth.
Once an imposing Free Church building, this B-listed property is now an expansive four-bedroom house in the Black Isle harbour village of avoch.
Casting off its austere Free Kirk past, part of the building was converted into a home in the mid1980s and now brims with quirky features including a spiral staircase linking all three floors.
On the market for around the same price as an exclusive newbuild, it overlooks one of the prime dolphin-spotting areas.
Completed in 1873 with the help of a £500 gift from local rubber and tea merchant James Douglas Fletcher, the Free Church was designed by renowned architect alexander Ross.
During the 1930s, the church became a village hall, hosting social events and dances. a balcony was put in place during this era, which now serves as an upstairs lounge.
In 1986, work began on converting half of the church into a residential home, with the other half turned into office spaces.
The home now boasts a living room, lounge, kitchen diner, bedroom and utility room on the ground floor alone.
On the first floor is the master bedroom and en-suite bathroom, while above is the balcony sitting room, two further bedrooms and a shower room.
Outside, the property has a mature garden with views over the village and the Moray Firth. Estate agent Yopa said: ‘The village of avoch offers a good range of local services including a grocery store, post office, several hot food outlets and an active harbour.
‘Primary schooling is available in the village with secondary schooling at nearby Fortrose academy.
‘This property is located near the Rosehaugh estate with acres of woodland walks easily accessible.
‘The Black Isle has become one of the most popular areas of the highlands to live. There are many woodland and coastal walks as well as several rowing and sailing clubs within easy reach. Fortrose boasts one of the oldest golf courses in scotland.’
In terms of location, avoch is 11 miles from Inverness and less than an hour’s drive from the Cairngorms National Park. The larger village of Fortrose is less than five minutes away.
For those seeking a family home with a unique historical twist, look no further.