Culloden Visitor Centre
In 1746 the last battle fought on British soil resulted in the rout of the Highland
troops by the more professional and brutal redcoats of “Butcher Cumberland”.
This uneven battle has been the source of romantic legend and resentment ever
since, but this recently refurbished centre by the National Trust for Scotland
gives enough information to allow us to separate the truth from
the legend.
Castle Gallery
The Castle Gallery is housed on two floors of an 18th-century building and specialises
in displays of applied arts and crafts by both leading and unknown makers for
the domestic environment. They have been cleverly curated by the owner, Denise
Robinson, so that the visitor can imagine how the ceramics, glass, woodwork,
metalwork and textiles might look in their own home.
Loch Ness Cruises
To experience the glories of Loch Ness and the Great Glen that scours a gash
across the heart of the Highlands, take this retired Tyneside ferry that has
been plying the deep and chilly waters of Scotland’s most famous loch
for decades. There is a bar and café on board and between informative
commentaries you have time and space to savour some of Scotland’s most
stunning scenery.
Mustard Seed
Located in a converted riverside church, the Mustard Seed’s brightly modernised
interior contains a huge central open fireplace and has won praise for its fresh
Scottish products, inventively cooked and very reasonably priced. Most nights
the place is buzzing with a cosmopolitan crowd and in the brief Northern summer
diners can sit outside on the picturesque riverside terrace.
Hootananny
Although Hootananny is only two years old, it has quickly become the place to
go to hear traditional sounds from celtic bands and musicians. The place itself
is good for chilling out – the Jacobite interior is well preserved and
the candle-lit tables, accommodating staff, and good sound facilities all make
for a good night out.
No. 27
The Good Food Guide and the Good Pub Guide have been fulsome in their praise
for this well-established gastropub haven in Castle Street, Inverness’s
restaurant district with its Castle backdrop. They offer a notably wide selection
of pint options with an emphasis on local brews – try a pint of the lip-smacking
Red Kite, organically brewed by the local Black Isle Brewery.
Abertarff House
Abertarff House in Church Street, is a wonderful example of Scots domestic architecture
– once neglected and run down until spectacularly rescued in the Sixties
and restored by the National Trust for Scotland. The white walls, circular towers,
and “crows step” gables are distinctive features of old Scottish
town architecture and are visible elsewhere in Inverness’s abundance of
fine old historical buildings.
Eden Court
Located on the banks of the River Ness, this venue has the benefit of good views
outside and a packed entertainment schedule on the inside. Make a night of it
and book a meal at the Eden Court restaurant.
Summer Activities
Sutherland and the Moray coast are yours to explore – right up to the
top of the UK mainland. Loch Morlich and Loch Insh offer fantastic watersports
such as sailing, windsurfing, canoeing and wind surfing. To view some activity
providers in the area
Winter Activities
Cairngorm Mountain is world famous of its skiing and snowboarding. When snow
coverage permits, the terrain parks challenge riders with a variety of jumps,
ramps and rails. Aviemore is a haven for climbing too, with navigation, crevasse
rescue and scrambling course throughout the year. To view some activity providers
in the area
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