Meft Road, Elgin, Scotland, IV30

History — 1843 origins, modern reinvention

There is something uniquely compelling about living in a listed building, and Parrandier – formerly the Old Church of Urquhart – is no exception. Completed in 1843, this Grade B listed landmark occupies a modest hilltop, surveying open countryside in all directions. Today it stands as a sensitive reinvention of a historic kirk, its fabric carefully preserved while its interiors have been reimagined to offer a singular home for anyone seeking a building with genuine narrative and presence.

Parrandier feels like a structure that always expected a second life: soaring stonework, stained glass and a working bell tower set the tone, but it is the warmth and live ability of the conversion that truly set it apart. The planning allows the upper floor to function as a private residence while the ground floor operates independently – ideal for multi-generational living, guest accommodation or income. Planning consent is in place for up to three holiday chalets in the lower gardens, adding another layer of opportunity.

First floor — the private home
Arrival immediately brings a sense of calm and continuity, with craftsmanship very much to the fore. Original double doors open into a generous reception hall, from which two stone staircases rise in symmetry, framed by ornate balustrades and stained glass.

The principal living spaces have been arranged to celebrate the volume of the church. A sweeping, split level lounge and dining room unfolds beneath the curved roof, bathed in natural light from four great arched windows. The principal bedroom reads as a retreat in its own right, with an en suite bathroom that feels almost spa like original stone walls, high chapel ceiling and leaded glass are paired with a luxurious copper roll top bath, walk in shower and underfloor heating.

A bespoke oak kitchen–breakfast room provides ample storage, full appliances and relaxed dining, with wide, uninterrupted views across the surrounding countryside. Two further guest bedrooms sit on this level – both bright doubles with fitted wardrobes and open outlooks, one currently used as a second sitting room overlooking the pond. A shower room lies between them for convenience, while a private study at the front elevation within the bell tower, offers additional built-in storage and a calm place to work.

Ground floor — flexible, character rich space
The ground floor has been planned with holiday use in mind, but the way it has been constructed means most internal walls could be reconfigured if required. Original external stonework and timber wainscoting remain in situ, giving the entire level a strong sense of continuity with the building’s past.

The former altar area now forms a striking meeting or reception room, complete with original pews, panelling and leaded windows. An arched doorway leads to the former vestry with W.C., and there is direct access out to the gardens. A central lounge and bar area acts as a social hub, with a fitted bar and luxurious kitchenette that can serve guests or double as an additional family living space.

Alongside this are a self-contained studio with its own kitchen and recently installed bathroom, plus four further double bedrooms, each with private or shared en- suite facilities. One bedroom incorporates a discreet kitchenette; two bedrooms share a Jack and Jill shower room, making the layout particularly adaptable.

Bell tower — the signature moment
The bell tower is one of Parrandier’s defining experiences. Fixed stairs rise to the original bell platform, with a further flight leading out onto the roof, where views stretch across farmland to the coast. The original bell remains in working order, operable either by hand or electrically – a rare, romantic flourish that connects daily life directly to the building’s ecclesiastical past.

Grounds — two acres of hilltop gardens
Approached via a private road, with a secondary path that could be reopened as an additional access, the property sits within around two acres of landscaped grounds. The hilltop setting lends itself to layered lawns, rustic terraces and a series of outdoor dining spots, all oriented to capture light and views. A large man-made lily pond brings colour, reflection and movement in summer. The gardens have, on occasion, hosted small weddings – the peal of the church bell marking the moment.

Location — Morayshire’s “sunshine belt”
Parrandier lies roughly 0.5 miles from Urquhart and five miles from Elgin, in a part of Morayshire known for its unusually dry, sunny climate. The Whisky Trail follows the nearby River Spey, while championship golf, ski resorts, coastal walks, forest trails and historic castles are all within reach. The neighbourhood village of Lhanbryde provides a regular bus service. Elgin provides rail links to Inverness, Aberdeen and the wider Scottish network, with the A96 only about ten minutes away, placing this remarkably characterful home firmly within Scotland’s “sunshine belt”.

 Material Information

EPC rating: E. Tenure: Freehold, Known building safety issues or planned/required works: None known upon time of listing.

Planning permissions: Likely good external cover on all major networks, variable internal cover linked to O2 & Tree. No internal cover found on EE & Vodafone.