The transformation of Inverness Castle into a major new visitor experience took another step forward today, as members of the media were welcomed on site for an exclusive preview and off-site Q&A of The Inverness Castle Experience, which will open later this year.
The visit offered insight into the immersive attraction taking shape within the landmark towers. The Inverness Castle Experience will celebrate the people, places and stories of the Highlands – past, present and imagined – through powerful storytelling, creative technology and interactive displays.
The Inverness Castle project is part of the Inverness and Highland City-Region Deal, a joint initiative supported by up to £315m investment from the UK and Scottish governments, The Highland Council, Highlands and Islands Enterprise and the University of the Highlands and Islands, aimed at stimulating sustainable regional economic growth.
Building Progress and Timeline:
The Inverness Castle Experience project is now entering its specialised fit-out phase, as the main construction nears completion. Originally planned to overlap, the fit-out team will now complete specific elements after construction finishes due to the highly specialised nature of the work.
The anticipated opening of The Inverness Castle Experience is now planned for later this year. This timeline incorporates adequate time for staff training and final commissioning of the building ahead of welcoming visitors.
During an operational update, Garry Marsden, Head of The Inverness Castle Experience, confirmed that preparations are well advanced across all areas, including staffing, retail, food and beverage, and visitor services. Merchandise is being ordered for the new retail shop, the café menu is being developed with local suppliers and the ticketing system is fully in place.
Cllr Ian Brown, Leader of Inverness and Area and Co-chair of the Inverness Castle Delivery Group, said:
“Today’s visit offers a real sense of just how far the project has come – and how close we now are to welcoming visitors into The Inverness Castle Experience. This will be a landmark experience not only for the city but for the wider Highlands, bringing our stories and landscapes to life in powerful and contemporary ways.”
“This is a complex project – it involves a unique blend of historic architecture, modern building techniques and innovative exhibits. The teamwork between contractors, designers and fit-out specialists has been commendable, especially considering the challenges with workforce availability. Up until now, three main contractors have been working simultaneously on the site. However, we have now reached a stage where the specialised fit-out demands a carefully planned, step-by-step process. With construction drawing to a close, we are moving into the final phase with energy and clear focus.”
Michael Boylan, Chair of High Life Highland Trading Board, said:
“The Inverness Castle Experience will be a vibrant and distinctive celebration of Highland life, rooted in our communities, culture and creativity. We’re excited to bring this to the public later this year and look forward to sharing something truly special with visitors from near and far. Ensuring it is fully operational and fit for purpose is crucial, and we remain focused on delivering a high-quality experience worthy of its iconic setting.”
The Inverness Castle Experience project, opening later this year, will benefit from £30m in investment to support its redevelopment from the Scottish and UK governments, The Highland Council, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, and a range of other partners.