About Kirkhill Community Centre
Kirkhill Community Centre is a modern village hall in Kirkhill, Highland (about 7 miles SW of Inverness (www.kirkhillandbunchrew.org.uk ) (venues4hire.org )), owned and run by the local charity Aird Community Trust (formerly Kirkhill Community Centre SCIO) on behalf of residents (www.airdcommunity.com ). Built in 1987 by the Kirkhill District Amenities Association and refurbished in 2012 (www.airdcommunity.com ), it provides a bright, adaptable space with full disabled access and energy-efficient upgrades (solar panels, heat-pump heating and LED lights) for community use (www.airdcommunity.com ). Key facilities include a large main sports hall (with stage and lighting), an all-weather MUGA games area, the Williamson Room (for smaller meetings and classes) and adjacent grass sports pitches (www.airdcommunity.com ) (www.airdcommunity.com ). The centre even has a fully equipped kitchen, free Wi-Fi and a large car park for users (www.airdcommunity.com ). Fundraising events, especially the annual Kirkhill Gala Week, have supported its upkeep – proceeds go towards maintaining the building and pitches (www.airdcommunity.com ) (www.airdcommunity.com ). As a “much loved” village hub (www.airdcommunity.com ), it’s notable for its volunteer leadership and strong community spirit: the hall is literally maintained by locals for locals, making it the beating heart of Kirkhill’s social life.
Events and Programming
Nearly every day something is happening at Kirkhill Community Centre. It’s home to dozens of local clubs and classes – from toddler groups and Scouts to indoor bowling, Pilates, karate and Scottish country dancing (www.airdcommunity.com ). There’s a weekly community café, a monthly farmers-style market, and year-round post office services in the foyer (www.airdcommunity.com ). The Centre’s hall is used for parties, weddings, sports and many one-off events (training, drama nights, sales etc.) as well as regular bookings by local user groups (www.airdcommunity.com ). The highlight of the year is *Kirkhill Gala Week*, a week-long fundraiser culminating in a Gala Day of music, dancing, kids’ games and stalls (www.airdcommunity.com ). In 2023 over 600 people turned out for Gala Day in and around the hall (www.inverness-courier.co.uk ) – showing how the Centre shines during community festivals. Performers at Gala have included Highland pipe bands, dance schools and even historical re-enactors (“Highlanders for Hire”) (www.inverness-courier.co.uk ), underlining the Centre’s role in Highland cultural events. Throughout the year the venue hosts a blend of amateur and professional entertainment – for example, touring shows and lectures have been presented here (the centre is listed by VisitScotland as a theater venue) – but most programming comes from grass-roots organizations. Ticket prices for events tend to be modest, often under £10–£15 for music or dance nights, or free for community classes. Many events go on sale a few weeks in advance via community outlets and word of mouth, though low-key family events sometimes offer door sales at the hall.
Tickets and Booking
There is no dedicated box-office or commercial ticket partner for the Centre – tickets are usually handled by the event organisers themselves. For public shows or dances, tickets often go on sale in advance through local venues (village shops, online community pages or social media) and may be available at the door if not sold out. If you see an event listed, look for instructions to “book via X” (often the Aird Community Trust contacts). For best results, check the Aird Community Trust’s event calendar or local news sources well ahead of time. Popular events (for example gala dances or children’s clubs) can fill up, so buying early is wise. Prices vary by event: community dances, concerts and talks generally range from single-digit entry for youths (£3–£5) to teens or adults (£5–£12), while children’s classes or clubs often charge per session (as low as a few pounds).
If you want to hire the space yourself (for a party, meeting, or sports event), you can contact the Centre’s booking secretary via the Aird Trust. Local community & charity groups pay about £13.50 per hour for the main hall (and £10.50/hr for the meeting room) (www.airdcommunity.com ), whereas commercial or private hires run about £21/hr for the main hall (or about £375 for a full-day hire of the whole building) (www.airdcommunity.com ). All bookings and ticket queries go through the Centre (no third-party booking office), so the Aird Community Trust website or phone contacts will have the necessary forms and schedules (email and specific phones are not provided here by policy).
Seating and Layout
The Centre’s layout is straightforward: visitors enter through the main foyer into the main hall and smaller rooms. The large sports hall (also used as an assembly/drama hall) has a flat floor with movable chairs and tables that can be arranged by event organisers (www.airdcommunity.com ). There is a small raised stage at one end with basic lighting and a house sound system (PA speakers). As such, there is no fixed seating – all seating is general admission. For performances, organisers typically set up rows of chairs facing the stage. If you want the best view, try to sit centrally and closer to the stage (the hall is deep and acoustics are best up front). The adjacent Williamson Room is a small meeting room (seated at tables) for classes or breakouts. Sightlines are very good everywhere in the hall (no pillars or boxes to hide behind). The atmosphere is casual and family-friendly. Behind the stage there are changing rooms and showers (used mainly by sports teams) and back-stage access if you’re involved in a production. If you’re attending a social event the whole hall feels open and convivial – there are no VIP boxes or segregated areas, just community seating. One tip: the wooden sports floor can be slippery if you’re wearing plain socks, so for dancing or sports classes it’s best to bring trainers or non-slip footwear.
Getting There and Parking
Kirkhill Community Centre is located at St Mary’s Road, Kirkhill (postcode IV5 7PB) (venues4hire.org ). By car, Kirkhill is about a 15-minute drive up the A862 from Inverness (roughly 7 miles) (www.kirkhillandbunchrew.org.uk ). There is a generous free car park on-site (www.airdcommunity.com ), so most visitors drive and park easily. The lot can hold dozens of cars – plenty for small theatres or parties – though very large events may need plentiful car-sharing or parking along the road. For drop-off, you can pull up briefly at the front entrance. If you’re coming by public transit, the Stagecoach bus service (hourly from Inverness Bus Station) stops at *“Kirkhill Post Office”* on the A862 – which is right beside the Centre. That route (Inverness–Kirkhill) takes about 18–20 minutes and costs around £3–£4 each way (www.rome2rio.com ). From the bus stop it’s a 1–2 minute walk into the building. Taxis and ride-sharing services can also drop you at the main door. After late events, buses may run less frequently, so it’s wise to check schedules or have taxi numbers handy; Inverness night buses or shared cabs will get you back later if needed. In fine weather some visitors walk or cycle from central Kirkhill village (Local Road) which is only a few hundred metres away.
Inside the Venue
Upon arrival, you’ll enter a bright, homey foyer which houses community noticeboards, a small library/book exchange and CD/DVD shelves (www.airdcommunity.com ). The foyer leads to the main hall and also the Williamson Room (a smaller lounge-style room for meetings and classes). You’ll see the kitchen to one side (used for event catering) and seating for a community café or waiting area. Volunteers or staff often man the entrance for evening events – they may check tickets or sign in guests on a list. Security is low-key (no bag searches), but everything inside is well-maintained. Restrooms (including fully accessible stalls) are located off the foyer – there’s one wet-room style disabled toilet (www.airdcommunity.com ) plus male/female toilets. In sports areas you’ll also find changing rooms and shower facilities (venues4hire.org ). Free public Wi-Fi is available throughout, so you can stay connected during events (www.airdcommunity.com ). There is no permanent concession stand or bar, but at indoor events (something like a Ceilidh dance or show) hosts often set up a tea/coffee station or a small bar in the foyer. A community-run day cafe (on certain mornings) uses the space to serve snacks and drinks (www.airdcommunity.com ). Coat hooks and bins are placed near the entrance, and there’s usually a table selling tickets or merchandise if it’s a special event. Overall the vibe inside is very relaxed and family-friendly – people commonly bring young children and babies to weekday classes or local functions without formal dress requirements. The Centre’s library collection in the foyer means many locals browse books while waiting – it’s part of the community atmosphere.
Nearby Amenities
Kirkhill village itself is small, but there are a few options nearby. Right on the main road through Kirkhill (within a couple of minutes’ walk south of the Centre) is the local pub now called *Bog Roy* (formerly the Old North Inn). It’s a historic Highland pub (tracing back 270 years) (whatpub.com ) serving pub fare and drinks (check ahead for opening hours). A 5-minute drive away is the village of Beauly, where you’ll find more dining choices – for example, the Beauly Mill House restaurant and café, and cozy local inns. Inverness city centre (15–20 minutes’ drive) offers a full range of restaurants, pubs and late-night venues for post-show meals or drinks. For accommodation, there are a few B&Bs in Beauly and some guesthouses in Kirkhill; the nearest hotels with restaurants are in Inverness. (One popular choice is the historic Bunchrew House, a country hotel just a few km from Kirkhill.) As a tip, allow plenty of time to arrive: if you plan to eat or meet friends before a show, aim to arrive 30–60 minutes early to grab a table or settle in. After events end late, bus service is limited; it’s wise to book a taxi or check late-night buses in advance.
What Makes This Venue Special
Unlike a commercial theatre, Kirkhill Community Centre’s charm lies in its community heritage and grassroots feel. Architecturally it’s a simple, modern Highland hall built by the people – but it’s been carefully upgraded. The semi-rural setting (with fields and trees nearby) gives events a relaxed village atmosphere you won’t find in a city venue. Inside, decoration is humble but warm: knitted banners, donated photos of old Kirkhill, and artwork by local children make it feel like home. Key “wow” moments often happen here: the annual Gala events, for example, have become legendary among Highlands locals (sending dancers struggling up the hill in kilts, Highland games demos and a parade of tractors). For performers and organisers, the hall is beloved because it’s run entirely by folks who live there – you won’t get lost in faceless corporate policies. Speakers and artists often comment on the audience’s warmth; one local band noted that you can hear every clap and laugh deeply in the small space. The Centre also holds cultural significance as a training ground for volunteers and young performers. A generation of children have had their first drama show or Ceilidh here, many coming back as parents. Over the years, its sustainability upgrades (solar power, LED lights) and eco-minded fundraising (like carol concerts) have made it a model for small rural venues. In short, Kirkhill Community Centre matters because it’s *the* home of local gatherings – from Sunday coffee mornings to ceilidh dances – and it radiates a genuine Highland friendliness that keeps people coming back year after year (www.airdcommunity.com ) (www.airdcommunity.com ).
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The building is fully wheelchair-accessible, with ramps and an accessible toilet (www.airdcommunity.com ). All public areas (foyer, hall, meeting rooms) are on one level. Hearing loop systems are not mentioned, so if you have hearing aids you may want to sit near the speakers. If you have mobility needs, ask the door volunteers to assist on arrival. What to Bring: Wear comfortable clothing, especially for any sporting or dance classes. For example, children’s sports programs here advise *“comfortable clothing and appropriate footwear”* (trainers or gym shoes) (www.ticketfairy.com ). If you’re attending a formal dance or music event, smart-casual attire is fine. If it’s very sunny or rainy, bring a jacket – parts of the car park and queue areas are outdoors. You’re welcome to bring snacks and non-alcoholic drinks; the centre will have water stations or cups. What Not to Bring: Outside alcohol is generally not permitted inside (unless the organisers have a license for an event). Only assistance dogs are allowed in the hall – no other pets. There is no smoking inside (by law) and no vaping indoors. Do not bring drone or laser lights. Age and ID: Most events are family-friendly with no age restrictions. However, evening or licensed events may require guests to be 18+ (these are rare in Kirkhill). Occasionally quiz nights or dances will ask for ID if you appear under-age. Cameras and Phones: Casual photography (non-flash) is normally fine for personal use at events. Professional filming or flash photography usually requires permission from the organisers. Please switch phones to silent during performances or classes. Parking: Trust your parking instincts – the on-site lot is usually safe and well-lit. Do not block driveway entrances. If the main lot is full (only happens for the biggest events), you may find street parking nearby, but it’s best to arrive early to avoid being blocked in at the end of the night. Food and Drinks: The Centre’s kitchen is used by caterers – you won’t find a permanent café or bar inside. However, many events (especially fundraisers and dances) will sell snacks, sweets and drinks in the foyer or canteen area. There’s a coat-stand and bin area near the entrance. If you have dietary requirements (nuts, etc.), plan to bring your own food just in case. Registration: Some classes require pre-booking and fees; check the event listing. For drop-in events (cafés, markets, open dances) you can usually pay at the door. New visitors should introduce themselves to the volunteers – people here are very friendly and often show newcomers around. Community Courtesies: The hall also serves the local school and sports teams, so be respectful of equipment (e.g. don’t kick balls around inside unless it’s a scheduled sports session). Help keep the place clean: use bins for litter and dispose of recyclables properly. If you move chairs or tables, please stack or return them at the end. By following these simple tips, you’ll enjoy everything the Centre has to offer and help keep it vibrant for the community.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Kirkhill Community Centre, and where can I park?
The Centre’s address is *St Mary’s Road, Kirkhill, Inverness, IV5 7PB* (venues4hire.org ). It’s in the centre of the village of Kirkhill, about 7 miles west of Inverness (www.kirkhillandbunchrew.org.uk ). A large free car park is available on-site (www.airdcommunity.com ). On event days you can drop off passengers at the front door quickly; otherwise park in the lot. The main street (A862) runs past the hall and has additional parking if needed.
How can I buy tickets for an event at Kirkhill Community Centre?
There is no on-site ticket booth; tickets are sold through event organisers. Typically you purchase tickets from the local organisers, community trust listings or at the venue’s door. For example, local shows or dances often have advance tickets sold locally or online, but many community events simply charge at the door. For big events (Gala dances, concerts, children’s clubs) check the announcement – it will usually say to contact the Centre or event contact to reserve a seat. If in doubt, ask via the Aird Community Trust’s event calendar or local postings well before the date.
What is the seating capacity of the main hall?
The main hall is a large sports hall and can hold roughly 200–300 people set up with chairs (venues4hire.org ). (Most events set up rows of chairs facing the small stage.) In practice, capacity depends on the seating configuration: seated gigs or dinners might accommodate about 150–200, while standing events like fitness classes could have more. For safety, it follows community hall limits under 300 people, fitting its classification as a “large” venue (venues4hire.org ).
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The building was constructed with accessibility in mind. There are no steps in the main entry, and all rooms (hall, meeting room, toilets) are on one level. There is a fully accessible (disabled) toilet next to the foyer (www.airdcommunity.com ). The main hall floor is flat and suitable for wheelchairs, and the MUGA outdoor area is also step-free. If you need any assistance during an event (e.g. help to a seat, or lifting something), the event staff or volunteers are usually happy to assist.
What facilities are available inside? (Toilets, kitchen, Wi-Fi, etc.)
The centre has modern facilities. Besides the main hall, there’s a smaller meeting room (Williamson Room) and a fully equipped kitchen (for caterers) (www.airdcommunity.com ). Restrooms include men’s, women’s and a large accessible toilet. The foyer houses a small community library and free DVD/CD exchange (www.airdcommunity.com ). Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the building (www.airdcommunity.com ). For sports groups, there are changing rooms and showers. The kitchen is not open to the public, but during events tea, coffee and snacks are often served. There is no regular café or bar, but a volunteer-run community café might pop up on some days.
Is there a food or drink concession at the Centre?
There isn’t a permanent canteen or licensed bar. Some events (like dances or fundraisers) will set up a table for tea, coffee or light snacks in the foyer. A “Community Café” also runs in the hall from time to time (check the monthly newsletter or calendar) (www.airdcommunity.com ). Outside those occasions, you should plan to bring your own refreshments or grab something nearby (see “Nearby Amenities”). The large kitchen exists so that hired caterers can prepare food for parties and weddings; it’s not open to uninvited guests.
How do I get to Kirkhill by public transport?
Stagecoach buses from Inverness stop at Kirkhill several times a day. The closest stop is “Kirkhill Post Office” on the A862 – this is essentially at the Community Centre entrance (www.rome2rio.com ). The trip from Inverness Bus Station takes about 18–20 minutes. The service runs roughly hourly, but check the schedule (for example Stagecoach route 11/13 or similar). On weekends or evenings the frequency may drop, so plan ahead. Taxis from Inverness (approx. £10–£15) are also a quick way to reach the Centre if buses are inconvenient. Once in Kirkhill, the Centre is an easy 1-minute walk from the post office/bus stop.
Can I hire the hall for a party or event, and what are the rates?
Yes, private parties, classes, meetings and sports groups frequently hire the hall. You would contact the Centre (through the Aird Community Trust) to book. Rates depend on who you are: local community groups and charities pay about £13.50 per hour for the main hall, whereas commercial or private events are about £21 per hour (www.airdcommunity.com ) (www.airdcommunity.com ). There is also a whole-day hire option: currently £375 for all day use of the full centre (local charitable rate) (www.airdcommunity.com ). The smaller meeting room (Williamson Room) costs around £10–16/hr. Kitchen use is usually included or available for a small extra fee. These prices are current as of 2024 and set by the trust; always confirm the latest rates upon booking.
What are the rules and policies (dress code, photography, etc.)?
There’s no strict dress code – most people come in casual or smart-casual clothes. For sports or dance sessions, wear comfortable athletic attire and non-marking trainers (socks alone can slip on the wooden floor). Photography with a normal camera or phone is usually fine for personal use, but professional filming or flash photography should be approved by the event organiser. Smoking and vaping are prohibited inside by law. Alcohol is not sold on site unless a specific event is licensed; you generally cannot bring your own alcohol except as arranged with the organisers. Bags are not usually checked, but please keep valuables on you. Above all, visitors are asked to be respectful of the building: use bins provided, don’t chew gum on the floor, and follow any safety instructions from staff. If you’re attending a formal event, you may be asked to stay behind until latecomers can be seated safely (as is common in theatres).
Are there age restrictions on events?
Most events are all-ages or family-friendly. If an event has an age restriction (for example some evening dances may be 18+ due to alcohol or content), it will be clearly stated in the announcements. Children under 16 should be supervised by an adult at all times in the building. Teens and adults should carry ID only if they plan to purchase alcohol. In general, youth clubs, school activities and family shows are open to all ages. Senior events (like the monthly market) are also fine for kids, but a parent or guardian should escort young children in any case.
Is Wi-Fi or internet access available?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is provided throughout the community centre for visitors and event guests (www.airdcommunity.com ). You can usually find login details posted on the noticeboard near the entrance or simply connect to the open network. In practice, signal is good in the foyer and main hall, and decent (though slightly weaker) in the far corners of the building. Mobile 4G coverage is also generally reliable inside, as the village is well-covered by the main UK networks.
Are there any food or drink outlets nearby if I want a meal before the event?
Kirkhill village has a few small options. The nearest is the Bog Roy (formerly Old North Inn), a historic local pub on the main road, which serves pub meals and drinks (whatpub.com ). A short drive north (3–5 minutes) lies Beauly, which has several pubs and cafes (for example The Eagle Pub, Ages Hotel, and Dandelion Cafe) offering meals. Inverness city (15–20 min drive) has a wide range of restaurants for any taste. If you prefer not to drive, consider getting food in Beauly or Inverness before catching the bus to Kirkhill. Late-night transport is limited, so plan for a car or taxi if you’ll be out late.
