Castlehill tours – taking a peek behind the hoardings

Issued by High Life Highland

On behalf of The Highland Council, High Life Highland is inviting people living in and visiting Inverness to find out more about the Inverness Castle – Spirit of the Highlands project by joining a tour around the Castlehill area. 

The tour will tell the story of the castle’s past, present and future and will feature a look behind the hoardings currently surround the building. The 45 minute tour around Castlehill is free of charge and will operate daily until later this year. Specially trained guides will accompany groups, taking advantage of this period before the start of the main construction tender at the turn of the year. 

The tours are an ideal way for people of all ages to find out more about the Inverness Castle – Spirit of the Highlands project. Book your place now to find out more about the history of Castlehill and the castle building itself, as well as what the future holds for this transformed building in the centre of the city. 

People taking part in the tour should note that the tour is outdoors and should dress appropriately for the weather. 

Anyone feeling unwell, displaying any of the COVID-19 symptoms or who has been in contact with someone who has COVID-19 is asked not to attend the tours. All participants must bring their own sanitiser and mask, and should arrive 10 minutes before the tour begin. 

Fergus Ewing MSP, co-chair of the Inverness Castle – Spirit of the Highlands Delivery Group said:

“With the school holidays not far away, and many people taking an autumn break in the coming weeks, its an ideal time to book a tour around the area with family and friends. We are keen for everyone to have an opportunity to see the Castle up close, particularly as things begin to open up following the pandemic.”

Helen Carmichael, Provost of Inverness and co-chair of the Inverness Castle – Spirit of the Highlands Delivery Group said: 

“This is a super opportunity for anyone to find out more about the area around the Castle, as well as the background to the building itself. Our new tour guides are ready and waiting to show you around and share the exciting and ambitious plans for the Castle’s future following its transformation.

Make sure you book your place now!”

The transformation of Inverness Castle is supported by £15 million Scottish Government and £3 million UK Government investment through the Inverness and Highland City Region Deal. It will create a gateway for Highland tourism, contributing to reinvigoration of tourism across the area and providing much needed investment for the industry to aid the recovery from the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic. The project will support economic growth throughout the Highland area, creating a sustainable, viable and “must-see” attraction that will celebrate the spirit of the Highlands.

The Inverness and Highland City Region deal is a joint initiative supported by up to £315m investment from the UK and Scottish governments, The Highland Council, Highlands and Islands Enterprise and University of the Highlands and Islands, aimed at stimulating sustainable regional economic growth.

To book a tour, please visit www.spiritofthehighlands.com