In 1803 the British Fisheries Society bought 390 acres on the south side of the the mouth of Wick River. Here Thomas Telford created a new model town, the harbour, and the world's first industrial estate. It is named after Telford's great patron, Sir William Johnstone Pulteney, then Governor of the British Fisheries Society. The Black Steps connected the lower and upper parts of the town and were painted by L S Lowry in 1937.

]]> Castle Sinclair Girnigoe, a wild and romantic ruin with a turbulent past sitting on a precipitous promontory, finally giving up its secrets to archaeologists as this season's excavations come a close.

]]> Archery is held here and can be used in battle or to catch food.

]]> Created by engineer Alan Stevenson and completed in 1849 by Robert Arnot, Inverness. Style of lantern, with diagonal instead of vertical framing, was first used by Stevenson at Noss Head and adopted as the standard pattern for the service. The original lamp is now in the museum in Wick.

]]> Berriedale Church is an historically important building in Caithness and was built in 1826 as a Parliamentary Church under the direction of Thomas Telford, Civil Engineer. It was one of 32 Parliamentary Churches commissioned and built and is one of the few that remains furnished and laid out as it was originally built.

The church is now under the stewardship of the Berriedale Church and Cemetery Association and remains in use for special church services, commemorative and general events which are well attended by the local community.

]]> A welcome to the world of Northlands Creative Glass of Caithness.

]]> Thurso is the NRLI's most northerly lifeboat station on mainland Scotland. Today's Severn class lifeboat launches into the often turbulent seas of the Pentalnd Firth. The crews have been presented with 17 awards for gallantry, the most recent in 2004.

The current boathouse was built in 1957 and was adapted in 1970. In 2004 the new lifeboat, 'The Taylors', was placed on service on 7th April. This lifeboat was funded by the generous bequest of Mrs Vera Rita Eliza Taylor together with the bequest of Miss Agness Anita Cluness. A new pontoon berth for the new lifeboat was also completed this year.

]]> Caithness Horizons Museum and Art Gallery is home to many permanent and temporary displays. The museum covers The Pictus, Vikings, the Dounreay Nuclear Research Establishment and our latest display - the Flow Country.

Thurso Town Hall has been transformed into a hub for visitors to Caithness and locals alike and the gallery sees many rotational exhibitions from local and Scottish artists as well as solo exhibitions.

]]> This Episcopal Church of Scotland, one of only two in Caithness, was designed by architect Alexander Ross, and built in 1868-70, It has seating for approximately 110 people.

The Church became a category 'B-listed' building in 1997.

The interior has a warm and friendly atmosphere, accentuated by impressive stained glass windows. There is a pipe organ by Harrison of Durham within the chancel.

]]> The Trust's archive has WWII information, including plans of Burifa Hill and Dunnet Head.

]]> In the 1960s, Thurso Players, looking for a permanent home, were gifted the, then virtually derelict, Water Mill which stood in the grounds of Robin Sinclair,the then Lord Thurso. Thurso Players then spent many years converting the mill into a theatre. Retaining the Caithness slated exterior, the inside has been converted into a fully functioning theatre.

The listed building incorporates an auditorium which can seat up to 88, backstage area, wardrobe, props store, sound and lighting box and a downstairs lounge and kitchen. All areas of the building will be open to the public on Doors Open Day and there will be Players members on hand to provide guided tours and answer questions.

]]> Old St Peter's Kirk is one of the most iconic buildings in Caithness. Its importance was recognised nationally when it became a Scheduled Ancient Monument and Category A Listed building.

The area on which the church is built has been occupied since Viking times. There have been many additions to the church over the centuries until it was closed to worship in 1832. Although now roofless and in ruins it is still a hidden gem with a serene atmosphere of its own protecting secrets within its walls.

Please note: the graveyard has very narrow gravel paths in some areas and access to the inner church is stepped down with no handrails. Every assistance will be given but there may be issues for those with impaired mobility to enjoy the entire venue.

]]> Can learn about the sport of archery and how it was used other than for hunting.

]]> This church was designed and built in 1885 by the notable Highland architect, Alexander Ross. The chancel was added in 1906. There is a fine carved reredos gifted to the church in 1905 and a pew back from Old St Peter's Kirk dating back to 1676. There is also a pewter chalice and pattern on the north wall which dates back to 1782 and a fine carved German oak reredos above the altar which was gifted to the church in 1905.

]]> Nucleus: The Nuclear and Caithness Archives are home to the archives of the UK civil nuclear industry and the historical archives of the county of Caithness.

The records of the nuclear industry date back over seventy years and include plans, drawings, photographs, film, microfiche and documents. These have previously been held at various sites across the UK including Snowdonia and Sellafield in Cumbria. The relocation to Wick will take several years to complete.

The archives of the county of Caithness date from 1469 to the present day and consist of documents in different formats including charters, minute books, correspondence, maps, photographs and plans.

Nucleus opened to the public in 2017 and aims to provide a unique visitor experience for those wishing to carry out research or delve in their family history. The archive has a unique design and has won several architectural awards. The Nucleus community engagement programme aims to promote Nucleus and its collections to the wider community.

]]> Built around 1870 as the West Public Primary School, this building on Castle Street has remained a seat of learning to the present day. In the latter part of the 20th Century it changed use from a primary school to becoming an annexe for the North Highland College (NHC) (then known as Thurso Technical College), teaching a variety of skills including joinery. With the development of the NHC site at Ormlie road to host these courses the building entered into the latest phase of its history.

It became the Environmental Research Institute (ERI), formally opened by Jamie Stone MP (then MSP) on 9th May 2000. The ERI has grown from just a handful of staff and students to around 35, with a core of 20 staff and PhD students still based at the Castle Street site. The two large office spaces, a conference room, and three large laboratories - hosting a range of state of the art analytical instruments, allow us to learn more about how we can look after and benefit from the local environment.

Tours on the hour and half hour from 10am to 1.30pm

]]> Not normally open to the public, the John O Groats Mill is almost certainly the last water powered grain mill to be built in Scotland. Passed down through many generations of the Houston family, it was still in use fifty years after all other Caithness Mills. It finally stopped milling in 2001 on the sudden death of the last miller.

Still completely intact it’s a time capsule, exactly as it was over a hundred years ago.

On the buildings at risk register, the John O Groats Mill Trust aim to secure the Mill’s future and restore it to its former prominence in the community. The proprietor has kindly agreed to the Trust opening the Mill for the weekend. This may well be the last opportunity to see the Mill prior to any restoration work.

]]> Inverness Campus is a stunning 215 acre landscaped site which is home to business, education and research organisations. This high quality environment, developed by Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), already houses Inverness College UHI and An Lochran, a collaborative centre between Highlands and Islands Enterprise, The University of the Highlands and Islands and Scotland's Rural College.

]]> After many years of dereliction and close to the threat of demolition, Balnain House has been restored as a resource centre of Highland music. Originally built in 1726, it was the home of the Frasers of Balnain. It is an unusual survival of a regular fronted house of the period.

]]> The Grade 'B' listed, two-storey Georgian townhouse (built circa 1830) was refurbished to provide additional office space, a news room and ALBA TV studio.

]]> The Caledonian Canal was built between 1804 and 1822. It was designed by Thomas Telford and represents a remarkable feat of engineering.

Bona Lighthouse was built around 1815 to designs by Thomas Telford. Inland lighthouses are uncommon in Scotland and the stunning oriel bay window, which once held the light that guided ships from Loch Ness onto the Caledonian Canal in its heyday, remains the focal point of the cottage.

The octagonal shape of the building closely follows the types of design Telford used elsewhere for tollhouses.

]]> Castle Leod is the finest 14th Century Tower House in Ross & Cromarty. It is a Grade A Listed Building of great historical importance and architectural merit, and is remarkable in that it has survived in relatively good condition up to the present day. Its survival is largely due to it being the ancestral home of the Clan Mackenzie, a large and powerful Highland clan that ruled the area. The Clan Mackenzie Charitable Trust has plans to see the building fully restored.

]]> The Centre for Health Science is a multi-user facility located next to Raigmore Hospital in Inverness. The Centre was one of the first of its kind in the UK and specialises in health-related teaching, training, research and patient care. The inspiring design of the building encourages interaction and collaboration among its users and a key feature is the open, internal "street" which looks onto a central courtyard through glass panels.

The Centre has state-of-the-art facilities including a dental "phantom-heads" simulation room, mock hospital ward with life-sized mannequins, laboratories and a clinical research facility. This public building also incorporates an ambitious programme of contemporary art and has a library and cafe that are open to the public throughout the year.

]]> Dalarossie Church, which was built in 1790, is situated on the site of an 8th century church, with the River Findhorn skirting its southern wall. It is surrounded by an old kirkyard with many headstones showing trade and origin as well as names. The church was repaired and altered in 1856 by the architect George Rhind and again considerably altered by W. L. Carruthers in 1904. Inside the church there is the baptismal font, formed in the shape of a rough-hewn stone, an old upright stone slab known as the Priest's Stone or bargaining stone, and an old offering ladle.

]]> The Church is a well known landmark for travellers on the way to Inverness. The Church was built in 1826 although there has been a church here, and worship here for many centuries previously. It is recorded as having been granted its charter as a mensal (common) kirk of Elgin Cathedral and Pluscarden Abbey in the 13th Century though it is believed that there was worship here long before that. The present building was renovated and the gallery restored in 1990/1.

]]> Dunolly House is situated at the eastern-most tip of the Caledonian Canal beside the junction between the Beauly Firth and the sealock gates. The house was built in the early 19th century and was used by engineers inspecting the build of the eastern section of the canal, later becoming accommodation for the Canal Manager. Details of the period - such as the lovely shutters, the fanlight and fanciful chimneypieces - remain. Dunolly House was refurbished in 2012-2013 as part of the Vivat Trust's partnership with Scottish Canals.

]]> One of Inverness's landmark buildings, the award-winning Eden Court complex combines 19th century grandeur with 20th and 21st century sophistication. Eden Court consists of two theatres, two cinemas, dance studios and the beautiful Bishop's Palace. There is also a restaurant, bars, roof terrace and garden. Come and see what goes on inside one of the Uk's largest arts centres.

Guided tours at 10am, 12 noon and 2pm.

Spaces are limited so please book at the box office. 01463 239841

marketing@eden-court.co.uk

www.eden-court.co.uk

]]> A top-secret RADAR chain was constructed around Britain in the late 1930s. Three bomb-proof underground bunkers were built for the RAF in 1941 in the Raigmore Estate. Their purpose was top secret - to process RADAR signals from around the North of England, the Scottish and Irish coasts. This allowed the detection and interception of enemy bombers in the North Sea and the Atlantic. This is the single remaining bunker, the other two having been demolished. During the Cold War it was converted into a nuclear, biological and chemical hardened facility which could have been a Regional seat of Government. Until recently the bunker was used as the Council’s Emergency Centre.


The bunker has recently changed hands and part of it will be converted into a museum. This is an opportunity to see the building as it was following the conversion to a hardened facility. If you have any artefacts or items of interest relating to the bunker, please bring them along.

Open for tours only

Tours at 1000, 1130, 1300 and 1430

The tour at 1300 will be conducted in Gaelic

All tours must be booked in advance at Eventbrite:

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/doors-open-days-highland-wwii-radar-bunker-tickets-65104587574

]]> The Free North Church, which was designed by Alexander Ross, and opened on 7th June 1893, is Gothic style with the tallest spire in Inverness at 170 feet.

Whilst it is typical of the Presbyterian plain style, it surpasses most others in size and in the boldness and elegance of its detail. North Church congregation split from East Church (Church of Scotland) and joined the Free Church of Scotland at the 1843 Disruption.

The interior, which can seat 1300, has been restored with stencil work on the barrel ceiling. The box below the pulpit was for the Precentor who led the singing. Now either a precentor or a keyboard player lead the praise.

]]> This year to mark the 10th anniversary of the Highland Archive Centre, our display will focus on some of the favourite items from our diverse collections.Uncover stories from the past at the Highland Archive and Registration Centre. The building situated along the river from Bught Park is the state of the art home for the historic records of Inverness-shire, Ross & Cromarty, Sutherland and Nairnshire; and houses documents dating from the 13th century to the present day, including maps, records of schools, poor relief, churches and businesses, alongside family and estate papers.

The building is also home to the Family History Centre, the Inverness Registration Service (with two wedding ceremony rooms and access to the ScotlandsPeople network) and Highland History and Culture website, Am Baile.

This year to mark the 10th anniversary of the Highland Archive Centre, our display will focus on some of the favourite items from our diverse collections.

  • Guided tours (must be booked in advance) at 11.30am, 1pm and 2.30pm - to book call 01349 781130 or e: archives@highlifehighland.com
]]> When faced with life shortening illness, death and bereavement, the people of the Highlands deserve the best possible care and support. At Highland Hospice our ambition is to ensure they receive this.

During the design phase for our new Inpatient Unit, an art plan for the Hospice was developed by local arts consultants and artists. The theme of the plan was to "make space for the natural environment". The plan led to the Hospice adopting art objectives including:
- Enhance patient care and facilities by placing a premium on the visual aesthetic of all aspects of the Hospice building.
- Offer patients a range of opportunities for consolation, comfort and stimulation through participation in or experiencing the arts.

]]> Highland Print Studio is an open-access studio with facilities for printmaking and digital imaging. The Studio teaches a range of techniques including; etching, screen printing, woodcut, linocut and wood engraving, alongside photo-based techniques such as photogravure and digital imaging.

The people who use the Studio range from complete beginners to professional artists and anyone can learn to use the facilities by doing one of the Studio's access courses. The Studio also provides a range of activities for schools and community groups across the Highlands and Islands and has a selection of hand-made artists prints for sale.

]]> HMP Inverness is Scotland's smallest prison. Built around 110 years ago, HMP Inverness is the local prison serving the Highland, Islands and Moray courts, holding around 115 convicted and untried males and a small number of women nearing the end of their sentence.

]]> Through a partnership with 12 other colleges and internationally renowned research centres, Inverness College is making it easier for people to study high quality further and higher education across the region. Their vast selection of courses, from national certificates to post graduate degrees, are taught to over 6,500 full-time and part-time students from both the immediate area and also from countries across the globe.

]]> One of the largest new timber buildings in the UK, designed by HRI Architects, Inverness with Hurd Rolland Partnership, this building was officially opened in January 2007.

As an example of what can be achieved by using locally grown and certified timber, the building has been designed to be environmentally sustainable and highly energy efficient and features include an underground wood fuel bunker which feeds a carbon neutral biomass boiler. An underground storage tank collects rainwater from the roof.

]]> Inverness Masjid Association purchased the building in Portland Place in 2014 and have turned it into a Mosque, community gathering place and an Islamic education centre for the Highland wide community.

Inverness has a small Muslim community - approximately only 1% of the total Inverness populations and the Inverness Masjid in Portland Place is the most northerly Mosque in the United Kingdom.

Islam is the universal religion of more than one billion people from every race and nationality, and it is the fastest growing religion in the world today. Islam is a religion which guides its followers in every aspect of their lives, spiritually and practically; it is a way of life.

]]> The Inverness Methodist Church is a glass-fronted building with a distinctive bell tower dating from 1965. It has a plain interior with stained glass windows, including one commemorating a visit by John Wesley in 1764.

The attractive building was erected on the Inverness riverside, replacing a former building in Union Street which had originally been a music hall and which had been destroyed by fire on 7th December 1961.

 

]]> Inverness Museum holds a growing collection of Roman Iron Age objects, each of which tells a fascinating story of the relationships between Imperial Rome and the inhabitants of the Highlands 2,000 years ago.

Join us for this behind the scenes hands-on session with some of the North's most iconic treasures from beyond the Frontier and explore the world of Romans and Natives through the objects they made, cherished and buried.

]]> Standing on the site of the medieval castle of Inverness, the Sherriff Court is by Edinburgh architect William Burn and dates from 1833-5.

Inside, the central stair rises under a panelled vaulted ceiling. Orginal furnishings include a Tudor Gothic Canopy over the bench in Court No.1.

Please note: open for guided tours only at 11.30am, 12.30pm and 2pm.

No entry/exit between tours.

]]> This Victorian Gothic style building was designed by architects James Matthews and William Lawrie following a competition to replace the previous Town House on the site. It was built between 1878 and 1881 and opened in 1882. The interior contains fine paintings, portraits and busts. The Council Chamber was the scene of an historic meeting of the British Cabinet in September 1921.


Over the past 3 years, the building has undergone a £4.2M restoration and repair project - come and see for yourself the newly completed project.

]]> Highlands Astronomical Society is the proud owner of a fully equipped astronomical observatory opened in 2008, the first observatory in the Highlands. The observatory houses a 14" Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope and there are a number of other telescopes which the public and members can view the night sky from autumn until spring and also safely observe the sun through telescopes with special filters in the summer.

Tours of the observatory accompanied by experienced members of Highlands Astronomical Society.

]]> One of the largest wastewater pumping stations in Scotland, the Longman currently handles all Inverness sewage. The latter is screened through 6mm screens before discharge to the sea. It will shortly pump sewage to the new Allanfearn Works for treatment in line with strict new EU regulations.

]]> Maggie's Highlands is a striking sculptural building crowned in bright green copper. An award-winning building which opened in June 2005.

]]> MAKAR design, manufacture and construct ecological buildings. In June 2012, MAKAR opened a customised workshop with 3-tonne gantrey crane to prefabricate wall, roof and floor panels up to 10m long. Surrounded by organic farmland, the 450m2 workshop was assembled within 10 days from 60 tonnes of locally-sourced Douglas Fir, Larch and Sitka Spruce. It is now a hub of activity producing 20-30 homes per year for sites across Scotland.

]]> A 1.2M restoration project for Merkinch Welfare Hall. The Hall was built in 1914 by the Catch My Pal Union.

Thanks to the intervention of Merkinch Enterprise and feasibility studies carried out by the Highland Buildings Preservation Trust, a new use has been found for the hall.

The "Fit for the Future" project and a 1.2M multi funded building contract is currently underway to save and restore this listed building to its former glory.

]]> The Caledonian Canal, opened in 1822, was designed by Thomas Telford. It is a spectacular piece of engineering, and the impressive locks mean that boats can travel up- or downhill. Today, the canal is a busy working waterway, welcoming a wide variety of boats. The towpaths are havens for wildlife, and are great places to explore on foot or bike.

]]> The Church was built and opened in 1901 on a steeply sloping site to a design by William Mackintosh. The style is early Gothic revival with walls of Tarradale stone. The congregation, which was founded in 1787, belonged to the United Free Church which united with the Church of Scotland in 1929. Configuration of the site led to halls being built below the Sanctuary. Inside, there are some notable stained glass works.

]]> It is believed that there has been a church on this site since the 12th century. The present building dates from the late 18th century though it is thought that the building contains remnants of earlier structures.In Celtic times, St Columba of Iona is said to have preached here at 'St Michael's Mount'.


The current building is mostly 18th century with 19th century additions, with part of the tower 14th century. Curfew is still rung from the clock tower at 8pm every night.

It was used as a prison after The Battle of Culloden (1746) with prisoners said to have been executed in the graveyard. Inside you can see the King James' 1st Edition Bible of 1611, a field communion set used by the legendary "Tartan Pimpernel" during the Second World War, a Willis organ, a chancel of Iona marble, and monuments to Inverness worthies.

It is still the venue of the annual 'Kirking of the Council' when the Provost and councillors process from the Town House for worship.

]]> At the heart of the city, the port of Inverness is a thriving, expanding business. It handles cargoes from around Europe and beyond, such as timber products, salt, coal, grain, and oil, as well as welcoming visiting yachts to the area.

]]> The Kessock Station, which was designed by local architect Campbell Ross was officially opened in June 2002, when a naming ceremony was held for the new inshore B class Atlantic 75 lifeboat, Moray Dolphin. As well as the boat, the Station houses facilities for repair and maintenance, and a general purpose crew room which as a panoramic view from its balcony to the Firth and the Kessock Bridge.

]]> The Cathedral which is dedicated to St Andrew was designed by architect Alexander Ross and built between 1866-9. It was consecrated in 1874 and is the mother church of the Episcopal diocese of Moray, Ross and Caithness. The Cathedral contains a picture celebrating the consecration of the first American Bishop, Samuel Seabury in 1784 and Russian icons presented to Bishop Eden by Tsar Alexander. There are a number of interesting features including the architecture and windows including the great west window representing Our Lord in Glory at the Last Judgement and the diocese's memorial to Bishop Eden. Access to the bell tower will be available.

2019 marks 150 years of worship at the Cathedral. This will be marked by a choral evensong at 3pm on 01 September 2019. There will also be a lecture on the architecture of Alexander Ross at the cathedral at 7.30pm on Saturday 07 September 2019. More information is available from the Cathedral office: 01463 225553

invernesscathedraloffice@gmail.com

]]> St John's Church was consecrated in 1903. It is the third building of that name in Inverness - the previous two buildings were sited in different parts of Church Street. The congregation traces its origins to 1688, when the Episcopalians were expelled from the Parish Church.

]]> In 1827, St Mary's, Inverness, was established as a Mission with Fr Terence McGuire as priest in charge. St Mary's Church opened on 2nd April 1837.

This beautiful building was the work of William Robertson, Architect, of Elgin. It is a very fine example of Victorian Gothic Revival. By 1888, to cater for ever-growing numbers, the Church was enlarged by the addition of a new Sanctuary, with a High Altar in Caen stone after the style of Peter Paul Pugin.

During 2014 and 2015, there was extensive internal decoration and refurbishment in the church. There re many fine new stained glass windows throughout the building, a re-ordered sanctuary with a new forward altar and reliquary, a new icon of the Presentation, and a new carved wood statue of St John Ogilvie.

Limited disabled access.

www.stmarysinverness.co.uk

tel 01463 233519

stmarysinverness@btinternet.com

]]> St Michael and All Angels' Church was built in the early 20th century when the congregation of the Chapel of the Holy Spirit (an earlier mission from St Andrew's Cathedral situated in Factory Street) transported the stones of the chapel across the river to Abban Street. The building was designed by the noted architect Sir Ninian Comper and RC Bannatyne. The east window is a fine example of Comper's work.

]]> There has been an Episcopalian congregation in the glen for hundreds of years. Part of the effect of the 1689 - 90 revolution in Scotland was that the Presbyterian Church of Scotland replaced the Episcopalian one, though an exception was in Strathnairn where an Episcopalian presence continued until 1726. A church building was eventually provided at Knocknancroishag and a new church, further up the glen, was built in 1817, when Duncan Mackenzie (Parson Duncan) began his long ministry.

The present Saint Paul's, with some lovely stained glass windows, was built in 1868.

]]> Carefully detailed Arts and Crafts Gothic by W.L. Carruthers, 1895-97, the church has a high open interior under a braced collar roof.The stained glass is of note. The three-light west window depicts the Martyrdom of St Stephen and is by A. Ballantine & Son, 1905; in the south wall, a Prophet also by A. Ballantine & Son, 1901; and in the north wall, a portrait of the Very Reverend Norman MacLeod, 1911 while the two-light window in the north transept is of the Marys at the tomb and is by A. Ballantine & Son, 1906.

The chancel lights are of strongly coloured glass, 1895. The organ is by Wadsworth & Bros, 1902 and the pulpit is of locally grown oak. The church organ was substantially renovated in 2000 by A Edmonstone. New light fittings, in keeping with the Early Arts interior, were installed in 2012 as part of the electrical system upgrade.

]]> horner + maclennan landscape architects practice is located within the former dairy maids house at the south end of the former Dochfour Farm Steading. The building was designed by Mathews and Lawrie in 1872. It is Italianate in style and comprises a single storey and gabled attic. A round headed arch supporting a three storey tower above formed the entrance to an inner courtyard, now lawn. To either side are bays containing round headed key stone arches in the centre and outer bays.

The building was converted in 2000 by Paul Waite Associates.

]]> In 1900 the architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh prepared drawings for a 'dream house'. These drawings were for a house that Mackintosh would probably have liked to build for himself and his wife.

In 1992 the house was completed to this design (copyright owned by the Hunterian Museum and Art Gallery, Glasgow). The house has strong sculptural presence in the Highlands. It is situated in spectacular countryside just south of Inverness.

]]> The building opened as an infirmary in 1799 designed to help the poorest members of society. In 1930 the expanded hospital became the Royal Northern Infirmary. In 2003, UHI, the prospective university of the Highlands and Islands, bought the bulding, where UHI staff work in the former wards. The orginal ''lunatic cells'' contain one of the most sophisticated video conference suites in Scotland.

]]> The burial place of the Lovat Frasers, Wardlaw Mausoleum was erected in 1634 on the gable end of the medieval Wardlaw Parish Church. Built by William Ross, Master Mason, its notable features include a monument to Thomas 11th Lord Lovat and the buckle quoins in the east corner below the belfry which is dated 1722.

There are also six lead coffins in the crypt, including one which until recently was thought to belong Simon 12th Lord Lovat, "The Old Fox", beheaded in London after the 1745 Jacobite rebellion. The mausoleum was renovated by the locally-formed Wardlaw Mausoleum Trust with funding from Historic Scotland and the Heritage Lottery Fund in 1998. During the works, a fine quatrefoil window, thought to have been dedicated by Euphemia Fraser in 1341, was exposed in the west gable.

Guided tours will be available which do not need to be booked in advance

]]> Built in 1593, the oldest house in Inverness has witnessed the Covenanting times, Jacobite risings and two world wars - if only the walls could talk!

Abertarff is the oldest house in Inverness. Tucked away on Church Street it's a 2.5 storey town house with a projecting turnpike stairway. It was owned briefly by the Fraser of Lovat Family, whose clansmen fought on the Jacobite side at the Battle of Culloden.

In the 19th Century the building was acquired by the Commercial Bank of Scotland but after being split up for housing, the site fell into disrepair. It was gifted to the National Trust for Scotland in 1963 and the building was restored by the Trust in 1966.

Over the past 50+ years, Abertarff House has been used for many things including the headquarters for An Comunn Gaidhealach (The Gaelic Association), a shop and the Trust's regional headquarters.

Talks each day on the history of the building and street each day at 1330 which do not need to be booked

]]> Interested to see how we treat Inverness and the surrounding areas waste water generating green electricity in the process? Allanfearn is the Highland's and Islands largest waste water treatment works and is open for Doors Open Day!

As Allanfearn WWTW is an operational site, guided tours will be offered to interested members of the public.

For Health and Safety reasons unguided tours are not possible. Over 16s only

To book tours please see:

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/doors-open-days-highland-allanfearn-waste-water-treatment-works-tickets-65103216473

]]> Dunlichty Church was built in 1759 and is believed to be the third stone church on this site - all previous churches having been wooden constructions. According to tradition, the building before this one had a porch where the men of the parish left their bows and arrows during Sunday services. Marks made by sharpening arrows and swords could be seen on the sandstone cheeks of the porch. Such marks can still be seen on the corner stone of the Shaw burial enclosure.


In the corner of the graveyard surrounding the church is a watch house, built around 1882 to protect the graves from grave robbers of the time.


There has been worship here since the time of the first church dedicated to St Finan in the year 575 AD.
Dunlichty Church was united with the Parish of Daviot in 1618 - one of the first such unions in Scotland and believed to be the oldest such union still where both churches are still in use. It is a place of wonderful stillness and has a special atmosphere of its own.

]]> The popular term "Pepperpot" lighthouse is used to describe a particular type of small lighthouse that has an architectural style similar to a scaled-up salt or pepper shaker. The Caledonian Canal has three of this type of lighthouse, each comprising a short round tower with a conical roof. The Caledonian Canal Pepperpot lighthouses are the smallest lighthouses in Britain.

The lighthouse at Fort Augustus was built in 1840 to mark the entrance to the Caledonian Canal from South Loch Ness. The lighthouse marks the east side of the canal and leads to a flight of five large canal locks. The lighthouse is readily accessible on foot via a short path along the banks for the canal.

Parking is available nearby in the village

]]> The Midmills Buildings are iconic landmarks in the Inverness Cityscape. Wasps is transforming these two beautiful B-listed Victorian school buildings into the largest creative facility for artists, creative industries, cultural social enterprises and the community in the Scottish Highlands.

Phase 1, in the restored 1913 Arts & Science Extension, is complete and now home to 36 visual artists and makers based in the Highlands, and 3 creative learning organisations. It currently houses frequent and varied exhibitions in the refurbished gym hall and a mixed workshop and events programme in the smaller creative spaces. Wasps will host tours of both buildings at fixed times, and general access will be available to the exhibition and public spaces in Phase 1 throughout the day.

Tours at 11am, 1pm and 3pm which must be booked in advance:

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/doors-open-days-highland-inverness-creative-academy-tickets-65657303763

]]> Built as a Highland Games venue for the Northern Meeting Society in 1864, the Northern Meeting Park is a green oasis of tranquillity close to the centre of Inverness, which serves as a sports facility and occasional concert venue. It is believed that this may be the earliest and best surviving purpose built Highland Games venue in Scotland.

The Northern Meeting Park was sold to Inverness Town Council in 1946 and it is now owned by The Highland Council but managed by Highlife Highland. It is opening for Highland Doors Open Days thanks to the Northern Meeting Park Group, a locally based community group established with the aim of taking the park into community ownership. There are also plans to conserve and upgrade the pavilion building to allow it to accommodate a range of new facilities and services.

During the Doors Open days opening, visitors will be able to enjoy the grounds of the park between 10-4 so why not bring along some games or a picnic? There will also be a small exhibition about the Park’s history and information about the Northern Meeting Park Group’s plans.

]]> At the west end of Cawdor village is Cawdor Parish Church. The first church on this site appears to have been T-shaped and was built in 1619. Parts of the former church of 1619, including the porch, are incorporated into the present church which dates from 1830. The tower at the end of the south arm dates back to 1619, though the belfry was probably added in the 1700s.

Internally the church has a pulpit set against its south wall and galleries in the east, west and north arms. Much of the woodwork dates back to a remodelling of the interior in 1904.

Doors Open Days is very much part of our 400 year celebrations - we plan to have the church full of flowers, with refreshments, live music, and guides to show people around the church and grave yard. On Sunday at 10.15am we will be having a songs of praise.

]]> The original church dates from 1764 with repairs in 1829 and later 19th Century internal alterations and re-casting in the style of John Robertson, Inverness. It is a long harled rectangular building with a ball finial on the east gable and a birdcage bellcote of the west gable. Pointed arched windows on the south wall provide light to the interior. Internally there are many 19th century mural monuments, mainly to the Rose family of Kilravock and Davidsons of Cantry.

There are many handsome table tombs, monuments and a watch house dating from around 1800 in the graveyard.

]]> Purpose built masonic temple with members club. Guided tours on request

]]> Let us convey you up braes and down memory Lane while you relax and enjoy the trip. Leaving from and returning to Gourock Station, you will hear about Gourock’s role in both World Wars, her long history, colourful characters, Neolithic connections and the development from small fishing village to the town we know today.

Leaving from Gourock Railway Station the tour will visit Bath Street for Granny Kempock’s Stone and St Johns Church, Darroch Park, Drumshantie, Tower Drive, Tower Hill with its fabulous views, Ashton Road, Castle Levan, Cloch Lighthouse & Lunderston Bay returning via the Royal Gourock Yacht Club Clubhouse & the Swimming Pool.

Tour approx 2 1/2 hours

With thanks to the Inverclyde Tourist Group

Please book your place on www.eventrbite.co.uk Under 'Be a tourist in your own town'

]]> Join with us as we celebrate the life & times of Greenock’s most famous son – James Watt.

We will visit all the local places identified with Watt, his birthplace ,the buildings commemorating him and conclude by visiting his Cairn at the cemetery.

In this, the bicentenary of his death, we acknowledge his significant contribution to the world economy and changes to the social order.

His legacy to the world was his scientific & engineering skills in developing the steam engine converting it into the workhorse of the Industrial Revolution driven by efficient, reliable motive power transforming the economies of the world, and bringing immense social change attracting millions of rural families to the towns and cities.

Tour leaves from Kilblain Street Bus Station, Greenock and free car parking is available at nearby Hastie Street, PA 15 1SR

Bus leaves at 10.30 returning 12.30

Some walking required.

Book your place on www.eventbrite.co.uk and look for James Watt tour and trail

Bus access may not be suitable for those with mobility restrictions.

]]> Discover the heritage of Port Glasgow and Kilmacolm and view the regeneration of the area.

The Tour will start at Church Street, Port Glasgow and is a Tour of contrasts – the old and the new

In Port Glasgow we start by visiting the Comet, the stones in memory of Stanley Spencer who spent some time, as a war artist in the shipyards of Port Glasgow, and the new houses at Kingston Dock near the Town Centre. A short drive takes us to Ferguson Marine’s new shipyard then visit the grounds of historic Newark Castle. We then follow part of the Heritage Coastal Trail to Parklea and see the new modern houses at Woodhall before driving through the countryside to Kilmacolm.

Kilmacolm, with its farms, mansions, churches, Charles Rennie Mackintosh homes, Birkmyre Park & its newly opened Heritage Gallery in the Community Centre has a fascinating history and here there will be time to visit some of the open buildings, as well as enjoying a coffee or ice cream before returning to Church Street by a scenic route with wonderful views over the River Clyde.

Coach leaves Port Glasgow Bus Station.

Duration: 3 ½ hours

Tour guides provided by Inverclyde Tourist Group

Places can be booked on www.eventbrite.co.uk, look for Be a tourist in your own town, Port Glasgow

Alternatively call 01475 712032 between 9 am and 5pm, Mon - Fri.

Bus access may not be suitable for those with mobility restrictions.

]]> A redevelopment project in the heart of Kilmacolm, this new centre was created from two significant and semi derelict former primary school buildings in the centre of Kilmacolm which have undergone restoration, alteration and refurbishment with completely new interiors tailored to 21st century requirements.
]]> Kilmacolm Primary School building was originally constructed in 1974 and is a single storey concrete frame structure with concrete cladding panel finish. The building has been the subject of a 4.478M comprehensive refurbishment, remodelling and infill extension including provision of a second gym space and external improvements including a new multi-use games area.

]]> Kilmacolm Old Kirk is the historic Parish Church of the village. The main part of the building dates from 1831 though there was a medieval building on the site. Some of this is incorporated into the Murray Chapel. There has been a Christian presence on or about this site since the 6th century missions from Iona.
The village name “Kilmacolm”, deriving from the Gaelic meaning cell of church of my Columba, preserves that connection.
]]> The first ship was launched from the Newark slipway in 1780 and Ferguson’s founded on the same site in 1903. The new buildings of Ferguson marine were constructed between 2015 and 2017 and designed by Canata & Seggie and Sunax Design & Build Ltd.

Just under £26 million has been invested in rebuilding Ferguson Marine, now one of the most advanced shipyards in the world, currently building two of the UK’s first ever Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) ferries and officially on the roster for building the next generation of Royal Navy ships.

]]> Operational fire station consisting of two fire appliances.

]]> Built in 1854, the Church of St John the Baptist has served the Catholic community of Port Glasgow continuously. Redeveloped over the years it boasts an interesting series of stained glass windows depicting the development of shipbuilding, a stunning rococo sancturary with an Apse Stained "Rose" window completely restored in 2010.

]]> Inverclyde Unpaid Work Service is a statutory service within Criminal Justice Social Work with the purpose of providing the Scottish Criminal Courts with a credible community based alternative to a custodial sentence. This service is innovative in harnessing the re-integrative and rehabilitative potential in providing opportunities to build capacities around employment skills, including painting and decorating and gardening. This service supports many local projects and organisations as well as providing these services to more vulnerable local people.

]]> This Grade A listed building was designed by Sir Robert Rowand Anderson and opened for worship in 1893 replacing the 'tin tabernacle' on the same site. It contains fine examples of stained glass designed by Scottish artists William Wilson and Douglas Strachan as well as designs attributed to Edward Burne-Jones. A Viscount Regent classical three manual organ has been sensitively installed saving all architectural features. There are fine examples of oak carving in the building notable the reredos behind the communion table.

]]> First Church built in Scotland after the Reformation. Opened in 1591, moved to Seafield site, stone by stone, and reopened in 1928. Finest collection of Pre-Raphaelite Glass in Great Britain.

]]> Designed by John Starforth, Architect in 1871 the interior has been altered twice in 1951 and 2002. The latest alterations involved removing the pews and the Sanctuary has become a 21st Century multi functional area. A beautiful stained glass window dominates the Chancel. The building is used seven days a week by youth organisations, community groups and by the Church. Home to the vibrant Lyle Gateway - a weekly gathering for the community where good conversation is always on the menu.

]]> This Episcopal Church is in lovely decorative order and is an example of fine architecture of the Victorian period. Unusual features include fine stained glass windows, beautiful high alter and reredos. The unique Rood/Choir screen features numerous wooden carvings or animals including birds, lizards, monkeys, rabbits and dogs.

The present building was designed by Paley and Austin of Lancaster and consecrated in 1878 replacing an earlier church dating from 1824. It was built in the early English style of freestone from Inverkip quarries. The font, which was gifted by Lady Emma Shaw Stewart in 1845 for the previous building, was copied from a 15th century original.

Descriptive illustrated leaflets available and guided tours on request. Recorded organ music will also be played throughout the day.

]]> The new £7.012M St Patrick’s Primary School building was constructed in 2015/16 following the demolition of the old school. The school opened in November 2016 and is a two storey brick clad building with areas of feature cladding and curtain walling designed to maximise the use of natural daylight.

]]> Greenock Custom House was designed by architect William Burn in the neoclassical style and in the early part of the 19th century, at a time when Greenock was a thriving principle ‘Port of Entry’ to Scotland and the custom House became a magnificent landmark on the busy River Clyde.

Access to the Greenock Burns Club Room and Exhibition displaying artefacts amassed over the last 216 years. The exhibition comprises of Burns memorabilia and artefacts which includes the history of Greenock Burns Club, the oldest Burns Club in the world and the local connection with Robert Burns and Highland Mary. The collection of books and artefacts are said to be one of the best of its kind and includes literature and poetry by Robert Burns and many other famous authors such as John Gault and William Shakespeare.

Children under 14 years of age must be accompanied by an adult.

]]> The Mariners Home was built by Mr W King, Contractor & Builder, Houston in 1850 and opened in 1954. The front of the building ranging from 1500-1540 in a Tudor period of Gothic architecture.

Currently a Care Home for the elderly and specialist unit for Korsakoff mainly for retired seafarers but currently open to all.

]]> St Mary’s has great historical significance as the ‘Mother Parish’ of the Catholic Church in Inverclyde and beyond. At the back of the church a plaque commemorates deceased parish priests from 1808. The present building, designed by George Goldie of London, opened in 1862, replacing the earlier St Mary’s in East Shaw Street.

The Grade B listed building, refurbished in 2002, has stained glass windows striking for their richness and colour. Recent additions are the stunning ‘Annunciation’ window (2013) by Shona McInnes, and the ‘Walsingham’ window (2016), which echoes the style of the original windows.

]]> HMP Greenock was built between 1907 and 1910, taking its first prisoners on 28th August 1910. HMP Greenock provides accommodation for both short and long term offenders. There are three residential halls and two community integration units and has a maximum provision for 263 people. Whilst the prison will ensure safe custody for people during their period of imprisonment, the ultimate desire of the prison is to return people to their communities as citizens prepared to positively contribute. The prison operates in partnership with local and national partner organisations to offer a wide range of services designed to address offending behaviour.

Tours are only available at 1215 on Saturday and Sunday and last approx. 1 hour.

These must be booked in advance and spaces are limited.

THIS IS NOW FULL.

No access for children under the age of 16.

]]> The allotments gardens have been in existence since 1855. Plots are available to the residents of Inverclyde to grow both flowers and vegetables. In recent years the allotments have invited youth groups and nursery children into the gardens to encourage the next generation of gardeners.
]]> Sited on the corner of Union Street and George Square, this B listed building was formerly called George Square United Reformed Church. Designed by John Blair, rectangular in plan with Tudor Gothic detailing. This suggested that the architect used a sketch design produced by a member of congregation for the South front. The stained glass vaulted ceiling and pipe organ are of particular interest.

]]> The Tobacco Warehouse was built in the late 19th century. This historic five-storey building, which is located on the corner of Clarence, Hood and Haig Streets, dates back to 1896. It is a large 5-storey building built of red brick with contrasting yellow brick dressings. The B-Listed bonded store, although known as a tobacco warehouse, was also used for the storage of whisky and was built by Greenock whisky distillers and blenders R Thorne & Sons Ltd. The building was also used as accommodation for American soldiers during World War Two. There is World War Two GI graffiti, the soldiers have written their names on the window frames.

The ground floor is a converted workshop and office space for RIG Arts.

]]> A local independent cinema that shows all the recent blockbusters and live events.

]]> The buildings, designed by Peddie and Kinnear of Edinburgh, opened in 1869 and provided accommodation for the Sheriff, Sheriff Clerk and the Procurator Fiscal as well as living quarters for the caretaker.

The two storey building is in the Scottish Baronial style with corner turrets and 140 foot high central tower. The new court building, designed by PSA Architects was added in 1980-81.

]]> This is the old Victorian Fire Station in Greenock, which opened in 1887 and closed in 1960. It is now the Scottish Fire and Rescue Services Museum and Heritage Centre. There is a complete range of fire engines and fire fighting equipment and uniforms on display covering the period The Fire Station was open. Further details can be obtained at www.sfrheritagetrust.org.
Children’s quiz sheets, interactive games

]]> The Dutch Gable House is an iconic and unusual building in Greenock’s historic William Street town quarter. The rear of the building allows access to the oldest surviving house in the town.

Come and step back in time.

There will be a photograph exhibition called ‘Inverclyde At War’ which is a collection of local WW2 images taken from the Imperial War Museum’s Collection. This exhibition will be upstairs on the first floor at the back of the building.

The bottom rooms at the front building will also be open, in this space we will be inviting the public to take part in a public consultation survey to find out what activity and projects, local people would like to see taking place in the building over the next 2-3 years.

Please note – Wheelchair access is very limited. Assistance needed, the ground floor of the building is accessible, with an uneven cobbled area. There is no disabled access to middle floor

]]>