Originally built in 1895, the Queen Street Church is an architectural anomaly in Inverness. Designed by the architect Pond MacDonald, it departs from the standard Gothic style seen in most Highland churches of the era. Instead, it features a grand, Baroque-inspired facade with elaborate stonework and a sense of theatricality that was quite daring for a Presbyterian place of worship in the late Victorian period. It was built to serve the growing population of the city’s north end during a time of significant urban expansion.

The most striking feature of the building is its ogee-conical spire. Unlike the sharp, needle-like spires of the Cathedral or St Columba’s, this spire has a distinct, “onion-domed” curve that feels almost Eastern European or Russian in its influence. This unique silhouette makes it instantly recognizable in the Inverness skyline. The tower was intended to be a beacon for the community, a landmark that signaled the church’s presence in a busy, industrial part of the town near the old harbor.

As congregations dwindled in the mid-20th century, the building faced the threat of demolition, a fate that befell many Victorian churches. However, it was saved when it was converted into Chisholm’s Funeral Home. While its purpose changed from a place of the living to a place of the departed, the new owners took great care to preserve the building’s grand interior. The high vaulted ceilings and original woodwork were maintained, ensuring that the architectural integrity of Pond MacDonald’s vision remained intact for future generations.

Today, the building remains a significant civic landmark. It serves as a reminder of the “Highland Baroque” period, a short-lived but fascinating trend in local architecture. For visitors walking along the river toward the Friars Bridge, the Queen Street Church stands as a testament to the city’s willingness to experiment with style. It bridges the gap between the rigid religious traditions of the 19th century and the adaptive, functional needs of the modern city, keeping its unique spire high above the streets of Inverness.