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What is the Inverness Castle Experience?

Dè a tha san Turas tro Chaisteal Inbhir Nis?

The Inverness Castle Experience will be a new visitor attraction in the city centre, celebrating the spirit of the Highlands’ past, present and future.  The existing castle buildings and esplanade gardens are being transformed from their original use as the home of Inverness’ prison and courts into a celebration of what makes the Highlands of Scotland a special place to live, work and visit.

The driveway of Inverness Castle (Credit: High Life Highland / Ewen Weatherspoon)
Looking up river from the front of Inverness Castle (Credit: High Life Highland / Ewen Weatherspoon)
A view of Inverness Castle from the opposite side of the River Ness (Credit: High Life Highland / Ewen Weatherspoon)

Do come and visit us and take a journey through the gardens, the two towers and new restaurant, bars and shop to experience stories about the Highlands and its landscape, culture, heritage and people.  Your journey will be guided by a seanchaidh – storyteller – who will help to reveal stories which celebrate the spirit of the Highlands along your route and to find hidden gems in every room. 

Artist impression of interior view of Inverness Castle (Credit: LDN Architects)
Artist impression of interior view of Inverness Castle (Credit: LDN Architects)
Bird's eye view of Inverness Castle (Credit: LDN Architects)

In the North Tower of the castle, the Highland Music Experience and Bar will offer a place for people to come together to share the best of Highland music, food and drink. The Experience will highlight and acknowledge the contribution of musicians to the rich culture of the Highlands. It was announced recently that the opening exhibition will feature the music and stories of Runrig, recognising the band’s impact on the area’s cultural scene over the past half century.

Rory Macdonald and Calum Macdonald, founder members of Runrig, at Inverness Castle Rory Macdonald and Calum Macdonald, founder members of Runrig, at Inverness Castle
Image courtesy of High Life Highland / Ewen Weatherspoon

Take time to relax in the gardens and to find refreshment in the new bars and restaurant.  Look out for our programme of year long events and activities and enjoy glorious views of the city and the River Ness.

Opening in 2025 – join us!