About Forres House
Forres House is a long-established community and leisure centre in Forres, Moray (Scotland) that opened in December 1973 (www.forres-gazette.co.uk ). Built on the site of the old Forres Primary School (www.forres-gazette.co.uk ), it was originally inaugurated alongside a swimming pool – hailed in contemporary press as a “magnificent community centre” and pool (www.forres-gazette.co.uk ). The centre was noted even then as “one of the finest in Scotland” for youth and community services (www.forres-gazette.co.uk ). Forres House was actually the first purpose-built community centre in the area (www.forres-gazette.co.uk ), intended as a hub for all age groups. Architecturally, it was designed by G.R.M. Kennedy & Partners (with Alexander Hall & Son as contractors) (www.forres-gazette.co.uk ). The two-storey building includes a large games hall upstairs and multiple meeting rooms downstairs (www.forres-gazette.co.uk ). Key signature features include a fully-equipped kitchen and café (the Forres Coffee House), the town’s public library, and dedicated areas for youth activities (www.forres-gazette.co.uk ) (www.forres-gazette.co.uk ). Throughout its 50-year history, Forres House has been woven into community life: locals recall birthday parties, youth clubs and sports classes held here for generations (www.forres-gazette.co.uk ). It remains notable as a “model for other regions” and a vital local institution (www.forres-gazette.co.uk ).
Events and Programming
Forres House hosts a very broad range of regular activities and special events. It is best known for community sports, classes, and youth programs rather than big-name concerts. The centre’s two halls and activity rooms are used daily for things like indoor football (5-a-side), badminton, swimming (historic), walking football, and fitness classes. For example, a weekly walking football session is held on Friday afternoons (www.walkingsports.com ), and locals have organized badminton and spin exercise classes for decades (www.forres-gazette.co.uk ). The centre also runs several clubs: a popular senior “Friday Night Club” for teenagers (vanished in recent years), youth drop-in sessions, and children’s fitness groups. Holiday and leisure camps for kids (e.g. summer day camps or themed Nerf/arcade activities) often take place here and are advertised in advance in local listings (www.ticketfairy.com ). One local resident noted that Forres House “has offered facilities for all age groups to socialise and learn new skills” for over half a century (www.forres-gazette.co.uk ). Special events have included sports tournaments, ceilidhs and social dances (often arranged by local clubs), craft workshops, chess competitions, and community fundraisers. Programming is typically organized by the Forres Area Community Trust and other local groups; events are frequent (often weekly or monthly), with schedules posted seasonally. Ticket prices, when charged, tend to be modest (often just a few pounds or even free for public events). The centre’s own rooms can be hired by clubs or charities, with standard rates similar to the nearby town hall (around £30–40 per hour, or higher for commercial events (forresarea.org )). In summary, Forres House is a multi-purpose venue for sports, classes, meetings, children’s activities and local festivals – it seldom hosts big commercial concerts but is consistently busy with community programming.
Tickets and Booking
For most activities at Forres House there is no centralized box office – tickets and fees are handled by each club or event organizer. Small classes or clubs usually take fees on the door (or via membership) rather than pre-selling tickets. When public events (like film nights or big community shows) are held, tickets (if required) are typically sold locally through community outlets or on the Forres Area Community Trust’s website, rather than major ticket platforms. Box-office style ticket booths are uncommon. For hirers booking the halls or rooms (for example, parties or training events), booking is done through the Forres Area Community Trust, which manages venue hire for the town. Interested groups can book rooms via the Trust’s booking system or by contacting FACT by phone/email (contact info available on their site). In general, popular events at Forres House do not often “sell out” immediately but very high-demand items (like kids’ camps) may advise early registration. There are no special presales or corporate VIP packages; events are aimed at residents. As a guide, hire rates for halls (set by the Trust) are on the order of £40 per hour for standard use (£70/hr for commercial use) (forresarea.org ). When classes or workshops require payment, fees are usually minimal (often under £10 per session) and may have concessions for seniors/children. For events like a film screening or concert, organizers often list a price (e.g. £5–10) or suggest donations, announced through local media or the Forres Area Community Trust’s channels. Always check the specific event details – there is no single box office to guarantee availability of tickets at the door.
Seating and Layout
Forres House’s interior is functional and versatile rather than fixed-auditorium style. The main indoor space is a flat-floor games hall (now often called the “upper games hall” on the second floor) with high ceilings (www.forres-gazette.co.uk ). Below it is a second large hall and several smaller rooms for meetings. There are no permanent theatre seats – chairs and tables are arranged as needed. For any seated event or performance, seating is usually set up in rows on the flat hall floor. Thus “best seats” will depend on the activity: for a talk or show, front and center rows give the clearest view, whereas seats at the very back or far sides may have restricted sightlines (columns or the slope of the room can impact view). For sports or dance activities, viewers often stand or sit at the edges of the hall to watch. Because the hall is wide-open, there is no VIP section – all audience members mix freely. Acoustically, the halls can be echoey since they were originally built as sports halls, so sound systems tend to project from the front. If you are attending a small concert or club, central seating (mid-hall) typically yields the best audio balance, while corners or extreme sides are less ideal. In short, place yourself as centrally as possible in the hall for any event. Unique features include the upstairs games hall (a wide space often used for indoor soccer or large dances) and downstairs side rooms (for classes or VIP areas). Avoid standing behind the basketball hoops or pillars if cord barriers are up, as these block view. Overall, Forres House is a flexible general-admission venue – treat seating and standing areas like a community gym: first-come seating, eyes to the front, and an easy come-and-go ambience.
Getting There and Parking
Forres House is conveniently located on the High Street of Forres (address: 27D High Street, Forres IV36 1BU) (www.forres-gazette.co.uk ). It sits across from Grant Park near the town’s centre. If driving, you will find limited street parking on High Street (metered or time-limited) and several public car parks within a short walk. The nearest free car park is Tulloch Park (IV36 1AY), just behind the Town Hall (~3 minutes’ walk) (en.parkopedia.co.uk ), which offers 76 spaces with free 2-hour parking. The High Street surface car park is even closer (about 1 minute away) with about 47 spaces (en.parkopedia.co.uk ). Both are free for short stays. Other town-centre car parks (e.g. Leys Road, Orchard Road) are within 5–10 minutes’ walk and typically free for the first 2 hours (en.parkopedia.co.uk ). On-street parking along side streets is mostly 2-hour limited. Note that Forres traditionally did not have paid parking, so most spots are free; always check local signs for any changes. For those using taxis or rideshares, the High Street front door is the easiest drop-off point. There is a taxi rank near the train station if locking your car.
Public transport to Forres is straightforward. The nearest train station is Forres (on the Inverness–Aberdeen line), which is about a 15-minute walk (around 0.8 miles) down the high street from the centre (forresarea.org ). From the station, you can either walk east along the A96 into town or grab a local bus into central Forres. Stagecoach buses call regularly at stops on the High Street, connecting Forres to Inverness, Elgin and Aberdeen. For example, Route 12 runs between Forres and Elgin about every 30 minutes, and Route 11 between Forres and Lossiemouth. During the day, buses on the High St are frequent; in late evenings check the timetable, as services taper off. In winter or wet weather, a taxi from the station or bus stop can be handy (local companies serve Forres). For out-of-town visitors, the A96 road to Inverness or Aberdeen is nearby; if driving from Highlands, follow A96 to Grant Park roundabout, turn onto High St and look for Forres House just past the park. Rideshare drop-offs can use the double bays near the front entrance, and there is nearby pedestrian access from Grant Park car park.
Inside the Venue
When you enter Forres House (typically via the main High Street doors), you’ll find a friendly community atmosphere rather than a formal theatre lobby. Staff or volunteers at reception will often welcome visitors, but it is not a ticketed entry point. Expect a quick walkthrough security check (searching large bags) at major events, but otherwise casual entry. The interior is bright and modern (late 20th-century style) with pale walls and signage to direct you. To the right is usually the ground-floor café and library area (www.forres-gazette.co.uk ), while the sports halls and rooms open off the corridor. The vibe is utilitarian – people in sports gear arriving for classes, local families, the occasional parent with kids, and older community members before bingo or coffee club.
The on-site café is the Forres Coffee House, open during café hours (roughly morning to about 5pm) (www.tripadvisor.ie ). It serves home-style meals, burgers, pastries and hot drinks – locals rave about its good coffee and friendly service. The café is open to all visitors and is wheelchair-accessible (www.euansguide.com ) (www.tripadvisor.ie ). (TripAdvisor notes it accepts credit cards like Amex and Mastercard (www.tripadvisor.ie ).) There is a seating area inside the café and a warm, community feel. If you need food or drink and it’s during opening hours, this is the only on-site refreshment; no outside fast food is served inside. However, you may bring a water bottle or snack to events if needed, but alcoholic drinks are not allowed (this is not a licensed venue).
Restrooms are clearly signposted. You’ll find toilets on the ground floor near the main hall entrance – including an accessible (disabled) toilet (www.euansguide.com ). Additional restrooms (men’s/women’s) are usually located on the upper level by the sports hall as well. All floors are wheelchair-accessible via a ramp or platform lift near the entrance, ensuring disabled visitors can reach the halls and toilets. Mobility aids like wheelchairs can enter easily – the ramp at the main door and wide hallways accommodate users (www.euansguide.com ).
Other amenities include: a coat rack/bench area (usually just in the foyer, no staffed cloakroom), free Wi-Fi (provided for some community events or via mobile data), and vending machines in the Youth & Community office area (if any). There is no merchandise stand or stage curtain – any event equipment (PA system, projectors) must be brought in by organizers. If you need parking validation, that’s not offered here (all parking is outside). If attending a sports class, there are changing rooms upstairs. If you get lost, staff at reception or signs will direct you – it’s a small building. In general, expect an easygoing community centre layout: enter, wander to where your activity is, and take note of the nearest exit. Remember, Forres House is a multi-use building – you might enter during a football practicum and see kids playing next to a library user reading quietly, which is all part of the friendly eclectic charm.
Nearby Amenities
Forres House sits in the heart of town, so there’s plenty around before or after your visit. If you arrive early, consider grabbing a bite nearby. The High Street is lined with cafes and pubs. Directly opposite Forres House is the popular Nosher & the Haggis bakery and café (artisan sandwiches, hot food and great coffee). A few doors down are Café 1496 and the casual Station Hotel pub (both serve food all day). A short walk south along High St leads to the Grant Arms Hotel (traditional inn with bar meals) and the Munro’s Bar & Restaurant. Vegans or allergy-friendly diners are catered to at the 81 Café and The Snooty Dory (fish & chips). Forres also has an Indian takeaway (anandTaste) and Chinese restaurant on High St for quick meals. If you prefer groceries or packed lunches, a Co-op is 5 minutes’ walk east of Forres House, and a large Morrisons supermarket is at the west end of town (just off the Grant Park roundabout).
In terms of lodging, Forres is small but has a few hotels/B&Bs. The Donald Muskatal (Donald Musgrave Hotel) is near the railway station, Grant Arms offers rooms on High Street, and the Station Hotel has guest rooms. There are also several B&Bs on nearby streets. If you’re travelling far, arriving early and staying overnight nearby is feasible; just note that Forres House’s recreational rooms usually wind down by 5pm (except evening classes), so plan evening meals in pubs.
If you need to kill time on the day, across the street is Grant Park – a Victorian park with gardens, a play area and shelters. For a drink after events, the Station Hotel pub is a convenient local spot; the nearest late-night cab rank is by Forres Hotel on the A96 or at Forres train station. Buses back to Inverness/Elgin run until about 10pm – beyond that you’ll need a taxi. It’s wise to plan transport or book a hotel in advance if a show runs late. In summary, Forres House is surrounded by everyday town amenities (cafes, fish and chips shop, parks) within a few minutes’ stroll, making pre- or post-event dining and relaxation very convenient.
What Makes This Venue Special
Forres House’s uniqueness comes from being more than just a hall – it’s a cornerstone of local community life. Opened by a Cabinet Minister in 1973 (www.forres-gazette.co.uk ), it was heralded as a landmark of civic pride (complete with a then-“magnificent” pool (www.forres-gazette.co.uk )). The building debuted at a time when few rural towns had such comprehensive facilities. Architectural touches like its spacious two-storey design and community-branded stone exterior (distinct from the nearby Victorian Town Hall) reflect 1970s optimism. Cultural significance runs deep: generations of Forres residents have memories tied to it – birthday parties in the halls, youth and exercise clubs, learning languages or crafts. A local volunteer emphasized that residents have “countless books” borrowed from its library and “eaten hundreds of burgers” in its café over the years (www.forres-gazette.co.uk ), illustrating how intertwined it is in daily life.
Legends or “firsts” include being the first purpose-built leisure centre in the region (www.forres-gazette.co.uk ). It also was part of a forward-thinking plan: suggestions to include a library and small “marriage room” were built into its design (www.forres-gazette.co.uk ) to cement its multi-use role. While it has no rock-concert ticker-tape moments, its special moments are local: first spin class, first pickleball games (www.forres-gazette.co.uk ), Friday-night barn dances for youngsters, and hosting community celebrations (like 50th-anniversary events) within its walls speak to its character. Its very name – Forres House – has become shorthand in town for community gathering. In practical terms, it’s special because it combines many uses under one roof: sporting, social, educational and recreational. The fact that the community rallied with a 3,000-signature petition to save it in 2025 shows how dearly it’s valued (www.forres-gazette.co.uk ).
Artists and performers (mainly local) love the space because it’s a welcoming, affordable venue to reach residents. Audiences appreciate the familiar, down-to-earth setting (old and young mingle here). In short, what makes Forres House special is its warm, inclusive atmosphere and rich history as the flagship gathering place on the High Street – a building that’s embedded in Forres’s community spirit.
Visitor Tips and Information
**Accessibility:** The centre is wheelchair-friendly on the ground floor (www.euansguide.com ). A ramp at the main door and an elevator to the upper hall ensure access. The café and library are on the accessible level, and there is a large disabled restroom on the ground floor. If you need mobility assistance upstairs, alert staff or ask in advance to use the lift.
**What to bring:** For fitness classes or sports, wear gym clothes and non-marking shoes. Bring water and any personal gear (tennis racquet, yoga mat, etc). For classes, you usually don’t need ID or tickets – just arrive a few minutes early to sign in. Because lighting/theatre is minimal, bring reading glasses if attending a talk.
**Photography:** Casual photos or videos for personal use are normally fine. The centre has no blanket ban on cameras, but please be considerate (some classes or youth activities may be off-limits for filming). Always follow any event-specific rules.
**Behavior:** The venue is relaxed – sandwiches at snack times and cheerful banter are common. However, note that smoking and vaping are strictly prohibited indoors (the law in Scotland). Alcohol isn’t sold on-site and shouldn’t be brought in unless a licensed event (rare). Assistance dogs are welcome, but no pets otherwise.
**Common Mistakes:** Don’t confuse Forres House with the neighbouring Town Hall (which also hosts events). Forres House is the modern gym/cafe/library building, not the 19th-century music hall. Also, double-check event location in case of venue swaps.
**Arrival Time:** Arrive at least 10–15 minutes before a scheduled start time (especially for children’s activities) to get oriented and park. During busy periods (Saturday mornings, holiday camps), parking may take longer to find. If an event feels full, staff can sometimes direct you to overflow space.
**Family Notes:** All ages are generally welcome. Activities labeled as “junior” or “senior” have age guidelines (youth evening classes often require age 14+). There is no formal dress code – casual daywear or sports attire is fine.
**Emergency Info:** The nearest hospital is Dr Gray’s in Elgin, about 15 miles east. In town, First Buchan Vets is 5 minutes away if needed (rare).
Born-and-bred Forres residents advise: “This place feels like a second home.” Some insider tipoffs: rare open Gym “taster” days are announced on FACT’s newsletter, and there’s sometimes a pop-up pantry or craft fair in the foyer. Also, quiet area shoppers say the hidden back bench under Grant Park’s trees (behind the centre) is a lovely spot to wait or picnic. Lastly, if an event finishes late, note local taxi numbers or arrange a Lyft/Uber ahead, as evening buses run until only around 10pm. Packing a flashlight or baton with reflective gear is wise in winter gloom on the short walk from far car parks. Following these tips will help you fully enjoy your visit at Forres House.
What is the exact address of Forres House?
Forres House Community Centre is located at 27D High Street, Forres, Moray (post code IV36 1BU) (www.forres-gazette.co.uk ). It sits on the High Street across from Grant Park in central Forres.
Is there parking available at Forres House?
Forres House has no private lot, but there are several public car parks nearby. The closest free car parks (with a 2-hour limit) are Tulloch Park (behind the Town Hall) and the High Street car park (en.parkopedia.co.uk ). Both are only a few minutes’ walk away. On-street parking (2-hour limit) is also available on adjacent streets. In-town parking is generally free for short stays.
How can I get to Forres House by public transport?
The nearest train station is Forres on the Inverness–Aberdeen line. It’s about a 15-minute walk from the station into the town centre towards Grant Park (forresarea.org ). Stagecoach operates local buses along the High Street, connecting Forres with Inverness, Elgin and other towns. For example, Routes 11 and 12 stop on High Street near Forres House. Check current timetables for evening and weekend service. A taxi rank is also available by the station for late-night returns.
What should I wear or bring to an activity at Forres House?
Dress depends on your activity. For sports or fitness classes, wear gym clothes and non-marking trainers, and bring a water bottle. For a casual class (dance, crafts, etc.) comfortable everyday clothing is fine. Arrive about 10–15 minutes early to sign in and get settled. If attending a talk or show, no special dress code is required – casual attire is normal. You may bring a small snack or drink (non-alcoholic) if needed. Don’t forget indoor shoes for sports and any personal equipment (tennis racquet, yoga mat) if required.
Does Forres House have facilities for people with disabilities?
Yes. Forres House has step-free access (a ramp at the main entrance) and wide doorways. The ground-floor hall, café and library areas are wheelchair-accessible (www.euansguide.com ). An elevator provides access to the upper games hall if needed. Restrooms on the ground floor include a fully accessible toilet. An external review confirms “easy access for wheelchair users” and that the on-site café and library are wheelchair-friendly (www.euansguide.com ). Assistance dogs are also welcome.
Is there a cafe or food available inside Forres House?
Yes. Forres House contains the “Forres Coffee House” café which is open during the day (approximately until 5 pm) (www.tripadvisor.ie ). It offers coffee, tea, sandwiches, baked goods and simple hot meals. The café is popular for gatherings and accepts credit/debit cards (including Amex, Mastercard) (www.tripadvisor.ie ). Outside of the café, visitors may bring non-alcoholic drinks or snacks to events if needed, but outside food isn’t provided by the venue. No alcohol is served on-site.
Are there restrooms at Forres House?
Yes. There are restrooms on each floor of the building. On the ground floor (near the main hall entrance) you’ll find men’s, women’s and a wheelchair-accessible toilet. Additional gendered bathrooms are located upstairs near the sports hall. So restroom access is available wherever you are in the building, and an accessible restroom is clearly provided downstairs for disabled visitors.
Is Forres House wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The building was designed with accessibility in mind. The entrance has a ramp, and the ground-floor facilities (main hall, café, library) are step-free and spacious (www.euansguide.com ). There is also an elevator/lift to reach the upper hall. A wheelchair-accessible restroom is provided on the ground floor. An accessible review of the site notes that both the café and the public library inside Forres House have easy access for wheelchair users (www.euansguide.com ). As a result, most areas of the centre can be used by visitors with mobility impairments.
Is photography allowed at Forres House?
Personal photography (e.g. snapshots with family/friends) is generally permitted in public areas of Forres House. The venue has no prohibition on casual pictures. However, during certain events (classes with children or performances) the organizers may request no filming, so follow any posted rules or staff instructions. Remember to be respectful of others’ privacy. Commercial filming or photography should be approved in advance by the administration.
Can I bring alcohol or pets into Forres House?
Forres House follows standard public building policies. Smoking (all types) and alcohol are **not** allowed inside the centre. This is not a licensed premises, so no outside alcohol is permitted (exceptions only at specially approved events). Pets are generally not allowed, except for guide or assistance dogs. The venue provides water bowls for assistance dogs in any case. In summary: leave your pets and alcohol at home, but guide dogs are of course welcome.
Does Forres House have its own ticket office?
No, Forres House does not operate a box office or ticket kiosk. There is no single on-site vendor for event tickets. Tickets (if required for a class or show) are sold by the event organizer. This might be through online booking on a community website, at the Forres Town Hall box office (for Trust events), or at the door on event day. Always check the specific event announcement for ticket info. For casual tours or drop-in classes you usually just arrive and pay at reception.
What is the difference between Forres House and Forres Town Hall?
Forres House is a modern (1973) community leisure centre with sports halls, a cafe and library, whereas Forres Town Hall is a historic (Category B listed) building from 1827-29. The Town Hall was recently restored as an arts and events venue (forresarea.org ). In contrast, Forres House remains focused on sports, education and general community programs. They are adjacent buildings but serve different purposes: Town Hall for theatre/concerts/meetings, Forres House for recreation and clubs.
When was Forres House opened?
Forres House officially opened on 21 December 1973 (www.forres-gazette.co.uk ). The opening ceremony was held that Christmas season and marked the beginning of its role as the town’s youth and community centre. The building’s 50th anniversary was celebrated in late 2023.
Is there a swimming pool at Forres House?
Originally, yes. When Forres House opened in 1973 it included an adjacent public swimming pool, which was celebrated as a “magnificent” facility (www.forres-gazette.co.uk ). However, that pool is now closed and no longer part of the centre. For decades the town’s main pool was at Forres Academy (next door), and in recent years Forres Leisure Centre in Grant Park has served swimmers. Today, Forres House itself has **no** active pool. The space is now used for sports halls and other activities.
Does Forres House have a ceremony or wedding room?
Yes – one of the original design features of Forres House was a small licensed civil ceremony room for weddings and marriages (www.forres-gazette.co.uk ). This “marriage room” was included to allow legal civil ceremonies to be held in the building, complementing the library and coffee bar for the community. It is a small formal room that couples can hire through the Forres Area Community Trust for civil partnerships and wedding proceedings.
Who runs Forres House? Is it run by the Council or a charity?
Forres House is owned and managed by Moray Council as a public sports and community centre. Since 2011, Forres Area Community Trust (FACT) has been responsible for community projects in town, including the nearby Town Hall, but the council still operates Forres House itself. You’ll even find council offices and services (housing, adult learning, etc.) housed there (www.forres-gazette.co.uk ). Essentially, Forres House is a council-run leisure centre that partners with local charities for classes.
Why was Forres House listed for possible closure?
Following a 2024 sport and leisure review by Moray Council, Forres House was identified as one of the most financially challenged centres. A January 2025 report noted its “poor financial performance” and argued the impact of closing it might be low (www.forres-gazette.co.uk ). This put it at risk of closure amid budget cuts. However, local Councillors later pushed for more accurate usage figures, since Forres House also hosts council offices, the library, café and charities that weren’t counted in leisure stats (www.forres-gazette.co.uk )【24†】. A community petition with over 3,000 signatures helped highlight how valued the centre is (www.forres-gazette.co.uk ). No final decision has been made yet, but as of late 2025 Forres House remains open while discussions continue.
How do I hire Forres House halls or rooms for an event?
The halls and classrooms in Forres House can be hired by community groups, clubs or businesses. Booking is arranged through the Forres Area Community Trust (FACT), which posts venue hire info on its site. Generally, you would email or call FACT to check availability. Rates are hourly (for example, around £25–40/hr for standard use, as listed for the Town Hall’s main hall (forresarea.org )). It’s recommended to book well in advance, especially for weekends or popular time slots. Half-day and full-day hire is also possible. In short, contact the trust’s bookings office (same team that handles Town Hall bookings) for details on rates and availability of Forres House spaces.
