Pentland Parish

Canisbay Church

The ancient Church of Canisbay is the most northerly Parish Church in mainland Scotland, nestling on the shores of the Pentland Firth with commanding views of Stroma and the Orkneys beyond. Our historic Parish includes John O' Groats and the Castle of Mey.

Canisbay is situated 20 miles due east of Thurso on the A836 which continues to John O'Groats.  The building is mostly 17^th Century architecture, although it has been altered over the years. It is Cruciform in shape.

The late Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother regularly worshipped here during her summer holidays at the Castle of Mey for almost fifty years, a tradition upheld by her grandson, the Duke of Rothesay (Prince Charles), now HM King Charles III.

The church hall, situated across the road from the Church was opened in 2007 and is a very welcome facility, being used for Prayer Meetings, the Guild and a local Mother and Toddler Group.

Canisbay Parish Church of Scotland is also variously known as Canisbay Church, Canisbay Kirk, and Canisbay Church of Scotland.  The Sunday service is held at 12 noon, with Communion twice yearly.  The church is also open to visitors daily between Easter and October -  9.30am to 6pm Monday to Saturday, 10am to 6pm on Sundays.

Access to the church from the gate is via a wide path with gentle gradient.  There are two steps at the front door to the church.  On street parking is available adjacent to church, with further parking available at the church hall across the road.

There is sound reinforcement but no induction loop available