A Little History of Inverness Castle

Perched high above the River Ness, Inverness Castle has commanded the riverside for centuries. Its hilltop position made it a coveted stronghold for clans, troops, and royalty. Buildings have come and gone through fire and conflict, but traces of the past remain, including a medieval well tucked away in the Castle Bistro.

The red sandstone castle you see today dates back to the 1830s, when Inverness needed a courthouse. A prison wing followed in the 1840s. After the courts closed in 2020, the site embarked on a major restoration, transforming the building into the captivating Inverness Castle Experience, ready to inspire a new generation of Highland explorers.

Your Journey Through the Castle

Your visit begins with a gentle walk past the Castle Gardens and up the steps or ramp to the impressive main entrance. Pause to admire the beautiful bronze statue of Flora MacDonald before stepping inside your Highland story.

South Tower Entrance

You’re welcomed into a spacious lobby with a sweeping staircase and friendly local guides. After collecting your handheld audio guide, follow the staircase up to the viewing platform in the South Tower.

Take time to look at the striking new installation of cascading “story sheets.” These represent the timeless stories of Highlanders, their lives, land and legends, inviting you to let the Highlands wrap around you.

At the top, meet your geode and remember to tap the audio guide and take in the spectacular 360° views across:

• Great Glen
• Black Isle
• River Ness & Ness Islands
• Eden Court Theatre
• Inverness Cathedral
• Craig Dunain & Craig Phadraig
• Merkinch Nature Reserve
• Muirtown Basin

It’s one of the most breathtaking vantage points in Inverness. The tower is fully accessible, with lift access for wheelchair users.

The Rose Room

Next, you’ll step into a small digital waiting room where immersive screens and music set the tone. Once inside the Rose Room, the star of the show is the 1867 Rose Window, beautifully restored by Iona Art Glass.

A mesmerising light show brings the window’s colours and symbols to life, accompanied by powerful Highland music. It’s evocative, emotional, and sets the heartbeat for the rest of your tour.

Highland Resources & Landscape

Leaving the Rose Room, you enter a series of exhibits that uncover the geological treasures of the Highlands, from gold to oil, wind to sea, along with tales of selkies, fairies, and the famous Brahan Seer. Each story on your audio guide is paired with engaging visuals, making this area fascinating for all ages.

Celebrating Highland People

This space celebrates the region’s greatest resource: its people. Meet Highland Olympians, artists, writers, innovators and sporting legends.

Explore the story of shinty, Scotland’s oldest sport, and see the original Silver Camanachd Cup. Don’t miss the tiny tower room featuring Gaelic psalm singing, a deeply moving experience enhanced by the stained-glass window inspired by Glenfinnan.

Write Your Story Room

Enter the beautifully curated Highlander Library, an interactive space filled with books, audio, visuals and creative corners. Take a moment at the writing desk to add your story and don’t forget to peek into the hidden historic toilet, a small surprise and a playful nod to Highland journalism.

The Spirit Room

Your journey concludes with the dramatic Spirit Room. Warmth, fire, thunder and Highland energy all combine in an unforgettable audiovisual finale. Whether you’re local or visiting from afar, you leave feeling connected to the spirit of the Highlands.

Still More to Explore

Before you head home, stop by the Saltire Bistro for coffee, cake or lunch, and soak in the views from the terrace.

Then wander through the Tapestry Rooms, where needlework and felt masterpieces made by groups from across the Highlands are proudly displayed.

Finally, enjoy the Runrig Exhibition, a loving tribute to one of Scotland’s most influential bands. Their music fills the room and, trust us, your toes will tap.

Always More to Explore In and Around Inverness

Visited Inverness Castle, do not worry, there is plenty more to discover in and around Inverness. Have a read of the Top 8 Magnificent Castles blog if you love history and learning the brutal history of the Highlands, or if you are on foot, have a read of Top Things To Do In Inverness on Foot.

Stay With Us

Visit Inverness Castle and book your stay at the Inverness Palace Hotel, with a castle and river view for your entire stay! Check our latest Seasonal Offers. Make it a longer luxury break with access to the Leisure Club pool, sauna, steam room and jacuzzi. Always book direct for the best value, or call 01463 223243.

Top Tips for Your Inverness Castle Visit

1. Leave bulky backpacks at home if you can, many spaces are cosy and intimate.
2. Make time for the Gaelic psalm singing. Stand by the stained-glass window and just let the moment wash over you.
3. Pop your head into the historic loo in the library, you’ll smile!
4. Head out to the bistro terrace for an extra viewpoint to complement the South Tower panorama.
5. After your visit, enjoy a walk along the River Ness and take in the castle views from the riverside, the perfect ending to your Highland story.