Historic Inverness Castle Now Open as Premier Tourist Destination in the Highlands, Get the Details Here

Published on December 10, 2025

Inverness Castle, an icon of the Scottish Highlands, is now open to the public after significant renovation work. This £47 million makeover saw the castle transformed from an historic sheriff court and prison into a state-of-the-art visitor attraction. Centrally located in the heart of Inverness, it opens its doors for tourists and locals to venture into its rich history and stunning views, infusing a new era for tourism in this region.

A $47 Million Revamp Transforms the Castle into a Must-Visit Attraction

The transformation of Inverness Castle began in 2022, with the goal of preserving its historic charm while creating a modern tourist destination. The building, originally constructed in the 1830s and 1840s, has witnessed various changes over the years. It was once the site of the town’s prison until 1904, and it served as the Scottish courts up until 2020, when they moved to the new Inverness Justice Centre. The revitalization project was part of the larger Inverness and Highland City-Region Deal, which saw up to £315 million in government investment aimed at boosting regional economic growth.

The project’s completion is expected to significantly impact the tourism sector, with projections estimating around 400,000 visitors annually. This influx of tourists is expected to provide a major boost to local businesses and the broader Highland economy, especially as Inverness becomes a more prominent destination on the UK tourist map.

The Inverness Castle Experience: An Immersive Journey Through the Highlands

The new Inverness Castle Experience offers visitors an immersive journey through the history, culture, and natural beauty of the Highlands. The attraction features a variety of interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, and multimedia displays, making it an engaging experience for visitors of all ages. Through carefully curated exhibitions, tourists can explore the captivating stories of the Highlands, its famous landscapes, and the people who shaped the region’s history.

Upon entering the castle, visitors are greeted by staff who guide them through the self-guided tours that begin with an impressive staircase in the south tower. The tours offer a chance to uncover the fascinating past of the castle itself, while also showcasing the rich heritage of the surrounding region. Visitors can even brave the elements and venture onto the viewing platform, where panoramic views of Inverness and the River Ness await.

The Rose Window: A Restored Treasure

One of the most stunning additions to the Inverness Castle Experience is the city’s iconic Rose Window. Originally part of a Victorian-era Methodist church on Inglis Street, this beautiful stained-glass window was removed in the 1980s as part of roadworks for the Eastgate Centre. Although the building was demolished, the window was carefully preserved and stored for decades.

Now restored and incorporated into the castle’s new exhibition, the Rose Window has been reimagined as a striking projected light feature. This centerpiece is expected to be a major draw for visitors, offering a blend of heritage and innovation that underscores the broader aim of the project: to bring Inverness’s rich past into a modern context while offering an unforgettable visitor experience.

Economic Impact and Employment Opportunities

The Inverness Castle Experience is set to be a key driver of economic growth for the region. With the influx of tourists, local hotels, restaurants, and shops will likely see increased foot traffic, contributing to the growth of the tourism and hospitality sectors. Additionally, nearly 90 new jobs have been created at the attraction, with part-time, full-time, and seasonal roles across various departments, from tour guides to operations staff.

The project also highlights the growing importance of sustainable tourism, as the Inverness and Highland City-Region Deal aims to create long-term economic benefits without compromising the region’s natural and cultural assets.

Ticketing and Visitor Information

For those planning to visit, tickets for the Inverness Castle Experience are available online for £20 for adults. Walk-up admission is priced at £22, with concessions and family tickets also on offer. Local residents of Highland Council who are holders of a High Life Highland card can enjoy unlimited access to the castle until the end of March with the exclusive Highlander Pass. Additionally, for those looking for a more indulgent experience, afternoon tea bookings are available.

A formal opening of the castle attraction will take place next year, offering another chance for the public to celebrate this new chapter in the castle’s storied history.

A New Era for Inverness Tourism

The reopening of Inverness Castle is a milestone for both the people of the Highlands and the local community. It is now being tipped to be an integral part of the tourism network of Scotland, with thousands visiting annually. Hence, it was not just a question of preserving an important historical site but also opening up a real possibility of a sustainable, evolving tourist attraction that will continue to contribute positively to economic growth and support the local economy for many years.