The October school holidays are bringing a fresh burst of family fun to Inverness Castle, with a new programme of activities inviting children to explore, discover and get creative in one of the Highland capital’s most recognisable landmarks.
The Inverness Castle Experience has launched School’s Out at the Castle, a collection of family events running throughout the October break, with everything from miniature Highland Games to LEGO scavenger hunts and outdoor adventures.
Designed to give families more opportunities to enjoy the castle and its grounds, the programme forms part of High Life Highland’s wider School’s Out initiative, bringing together creativity, local history, nature and a little healthy competition.
For younger visitors with plenty of energy to burn, the Mini Highland Games offer an opportunity to enjoy some traditional Highland sporting fun, while the LEGO Castle Scavenger Hunt brings a different kind of challenge for children who enjoy a good search.
Families who prefer exploring at their own pace can follow the self guided Cuillin Garden Trail, discovering the castle grounds and enjoying some fresh air along the way.
High Life Highland’s Countryside Rangers will also be involved, leading nature sessions which encourage children to look a little more closely at the natural world around them.
There will be creative workshops for those who enjoy making things, alongside storytelling and dressing up activities delivered with Inverness Museum and Art Gallery, giving younger visitors a chance to step into the stories and traditions of the Highlands.
The programme has been designed to offer a mixture of activities, with most available as drop in sessions and others requiring advance booking.
Steve Walsh, Chief Executive of High Life Highland, said:
“High Life Highland is committed to creating opportunities for people to connect with culture, learning and each other.
“It’s fantastic to see The Inverness Castle Experience becoming part of that wider offer, providing a welcoming space where families and communities can come together to explore, create and celebrate the rich heritage of the Highlands.”
Amy MacLeod, Head of The Inverness Castle Experience, said:
“We’re delighted to launch School’s Out events at the Castle this October, offering families new ways to get creative, learn and explore together.
“It’s just the beginning of a wider events programme, with our Spirit Cèilidh, live music, Festive Gathering events and workshops with local makers planned for the months ahead.
“We want The Inverness Castle Experience to be a place people return to throughout the year to enjoy Highland culture, creativity and community.”
The October activities are also part of a wider ambition to establish the castle as a place for regular community events, rather than somewhere families visit only once.
Plans for the coming months include live music, a Spirit Cèilidh, festive gatherings and workshops involving local makers, extending the programme beyond the school holidays and into the winter.
For parents and grandparents looking for ways to keep younger family members entertained during the October break, the castle programme offers a welcome mix of indoor creativity, outdoor exploration and Highland heritage.
Children aged 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult, and families are encouraged to check which activities require booking before visiting.
With the holidays approaching, the castle is offering another reason to spend time together, discover something new and enjoy a little Highland adventure right in the heart of Inverness.
Full event details and booking information can be found at www.invernesscastle.scot/whats-on
