The Inverness Castle Experience is preparing for a busy summer season with a packed programme of family activities, outdoor adventures and special events designed to help visitors discover the spirit of the Highlands.
Running throughout the summer holidays, the programme includes a new children’s garden trail, seasonal dining experiences and a special visit from Scottish Citylink as part of its nationwide Cities Tour.
Visitors to the attraction can explore immersive exhibits and interactive experiences across the Castle’s North and South Towers, uncovering stories of Highland history, culture, music and creativity while enjoying panoramic views across Inverness and beyond.
Families visiting the attraction will also be able to take part in Cuillin’s Garden Trail, which runs from 1 July until 31 August.
Inspired by Cuillin, Flora MacDonald’s loyal dog and the Castle Experience mascot, the free outdoor trail invites children and families to explore the Castle Gardens while completing a series of activities.
Participants can collect a free trail sheet from the Saltire Bistro and, after completing the route, receive a certificate, with visitors entering the main attraction also able to answer a bonus question to earn a special Cuillin sticker.
For those looking to extend their visit, the Saltire Bistro will offer seasonal menus, a dedicated children’s menu and outdoor seating on the River View Terrace overlooking the city, alongside its popular afternoon tea experience.
Adding to the summer programme, Scottish Citylink will bring its Cities Tour pop up bus to The Inverness Castle Experience on 30 June between 2pm and 5pm.
Visitors will be able to step aboard the coach, meet the Citylink team and take part in competitions, with ten family passes to The Inverness Castle Experience available to win.
Amy Macleod, Head of The Inverness Castle Experience, said:
“Inverness plays a vital role as the gateway to exploring the Highlands, and The Inverness Castle Experience offers visitors a meaningful way to begin that journey.
This summer, we’re encouraging families and visitors to spend time here in Inverness, enjoying everything from our interactive experiences to outdoor activities, before continuing their journey further into the Highlands.”
Scottish Citylink Managing Director Simone Walsh said:
“The Inverness Castle Experience is such a fantastic place to visit, and we’re delighted to be part of such a vibrant initiative to really show off the best of the city, and the Highlands.
“Coach travel is a great way to get around the region, providing reliable and affordable transport for thousands of people every week, and with our £2 single fares between Inverness and many Scottish destinations, it’s more low-cost than ever to go by coach.”
No admission ticket is required to visit the Castle Gardens, shop or Saltire Bistro, making the attraction an accessible summer destination for both local residents and visitors exploring the Highlands.
With interactive experiences, outdoor adventures and spectacular views over the Highland capital, organisers hope the Castle Experience will become a key stop on many family itineraries this summer.
