FAQs – General Enquiries

Booking Your Visit

Do I need to pre‑book my visit?

We recommend pre-booking your visit; tickets can also be purchased at the front entrance (subject to availability), though you may need to wait for the next available time slot.

When you buy a Highlander Pass, please remember to pre-book your time slot before you visit.

Can I change my booking time if my plans change?

Yes, you will have the option to amend your booking. A ‘Manage My Booking’ link will be in your booking confirmation email.

What happens if I miss my time slot?

Due to the timed entry system, if you miss your time slot, a new ticket will need to be purchased for a later time or date.

Are tickets refundable or transferable?

No. All tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable.

Do I need to print my ticket?

You can print your ticket if you prefer, or simply show the e-ticket attached to your booking confirmation email.

Ticket Types & Concessions

Are there concession tickets?

There are concession tickets for people aged 65 and over. Carers and personal assistants will also have free entry into the experience when accompanying someone with a ticket.

A Highland Plus One card (or equivalent) is not needed at the time of booking; however, it must be presented on the day of your visit.

Is there a concession rate for visitors with a disability or additional needs?

We don’t offer a disability concession rate, as we aim to provide equal access for all our visitors. However, visitors with a disability or additional needs who hold a Plus One card (or equivalent) can book a free carer or personal assistant ticket.

A Highland Plus One card (or equivalent) must be presented on the day of your visit.

What’s included in the ticket?

Your ticket grants you entry to the South Tower Experience, as well as entry into the North Tower – Cèilidh Rooms exhibit and North Tower Gallery.

Access to the Gardens, Saltire Bistro and Castle Shop does not require a ticket.

Can I use the same ticket to experience the attraction more than once?

No, each ticket allows a single entry to The Inverness Castle Experience.

Visit Information

What are the opening times?

Please see our opening times for more information.

When is last entry?

Please see our opening times for more information.

How long will a visit take?

We suggest allowing 2–3 hours to fully enjoy The Experience.

Is The Inverness Castle Experience open during the holidays?

The Inverness Castle Experience is open every day except on 25th December.

Getting Here

How do I get to The Inverness Castle Experience?

Please view our page on how to get to the castle.

Is there a storage area for luggage or personal items?

There is no storage space for any luggage. Lockers are available at Inverness Railway Station, a 10‑minute walk away.

Group Visits

Can I make a group booking?

Please see our Group Bookings page for more information.

Payments

What forms of payment are accepted?

• Tickets at the front entrance can only be purchased by card.

• The Saltire Bistro and Castle Shop accept both cash and card.

Facilities

Is Wi‑Fi available?

Wi-Fi is available in the Castle and can be accessed by accepting the terms and conditions.

Dogs & Smoking Policy

Can I bring my dog onto the esplanade?

Dogs on a lead are permitted in the Gardens but not inside the Castle Experience. Assistance dogs are permitted inside the castle.

Is smoking or vaping allowed?

Smoking and vaping are not permitted inside the Castle Experience or on the Gardens.

Photography & Filming

Can I take photos or film inside?

Yes. Photography and filming using hand-held cameras or smartphones are permitted for private, non-commercial use.

Where can I take photographs outside?

You may take photos in public outdoor areas such as parks and public footpaths. Visitors generally have the right to take photographs without needing permission, provided this does not cause obstruction or harassment.

Are drones allowed?

No. The launching, landing or operation of drones is not permitted from The Inverness Castle Experience grounds unless specific written permission has been granted and appropriate public liability insurance is in place.

Can I use flash photography?

No. Flash photography or flash filming is not permitted as it may impact the experience for others and can affect sensitive displays.

Can’t find the answer you’re looking for? Get in touch and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.