Inverness and the surrounding area was the setting for the first episode in the new series of The Apprentice, which aired on BBC One last night.
Series 18 of Lord Alan Sugar’s acclaimed TV show headed to Inverness and the surrounding area, where the teams were tasked with organising corporate away days for two businesses.
Filmed in early 2023 under the watchful eye of Lord Sugar’s advisors, Baroness Karren Brady and Tim Campbell MBE, the teams worked with Highland businesses to organise their days with varying success.
Visit Inverness Loch Ness (VILN) helped to bring the filming of the episode to the Highlands and connected Highland businesses with the programme’s producers.
Among the locations featured in the episode were Achnagairn, Cawdor Castle, Culloden House Hotel, Bogbain Farm, Ness Castle Lodges and Golf View Hotel.
Transport was provided by Wildtrax and GOYA Adventures, while The Lunchbox Boys provided catering.
As part of the corporate away days, the teams were tasked with organising activities, which included gorge walking, abseiling and bushcraft from In Your Element, Highland dancing by Cheryl Heggie School of Dance, and Highland Games by strongman Sinclair Patience.
Commenting on his involvement, Mike Dunthorne, Owner of In Your Element, said:
“What a buzz to have The Apprentice team join us for some fun in the Highlands!
“It is great to be able to showcase our beautiful region on a national scale and the fantastic businesses that operate here.
“Everyone was up for the challenge when they took part in activities at In Your Element – even Baroness Karren Brady!
“I hope the episode encourages people to take their own Highland adventure.”
Alan Rawlinson, Business Development Manager at Visit Inverness Loch Ness, added:
“We were delighted that many local businesses supported the filming of the episode in our region.
“Having the destination featured on the first episode of such a well-watched show, we hope, will encourage viewers to come an experience all the great things we have to offer for themselves.”
The episode can be watched on BBC iPlayer here.
