Inverness-Highland is in the running for UK City of Culture 2029. Let’s show the world why.

A Scottish Tale: Police Officers, Mechanics, and Musicians Or how a Land Rover breakdown, helpful police officers, magical mechanics, and an evening at the Gellions allowed us to discover Scottish culture and the kindness of its people. We’ve been hooked on the music of Julie Fowlis and Calum ever since our first visit to Inverness, and despite many other trips, we dream of nothing more than returning there in summer and winter to enjoy the festive, musical atmosphere, the tranquil beauty of the River Ness, and the magical sight of dolphins off the beach

Been here for 5 years and have found art and culture is so strong at grass roots level. From painting to ceramics, architecture to gardens, from music to theatre,Inverness recognises and celebrates it’s past by remaining its future. A new memory is made by us every time we go out to any venue large or small.

Still how each time you drive over the top coming in from the A9 feels like your first time coming home, seeing Ben Wyvis and the Kessock bridge and the Black Isle knowing your home. Its beauty shines through. Walking up the river and in through the islands and being in the middle of Inverness but sitting there in complete silence listening to the river and the birds around you. Home is where the heart is….❤️

It surprises me that it was only after moving to Inverness that I fully explored my creative potential. In my late fifties I joined Writers Groups and Filmmaking classes. I have also been enriched by the cultural diversity on offer here : my husband had joined choirs and we have lived discovering classical music. We have our very own WASPS Creative Academy in Inverness where I recently made a short film. Inverness also hosts the 48Film Festival. 26 short films were made this year ! At the screening I met fellow creatives and we plan to create a filmmaking community in Inverness.

We moved to Inverness 2019. We knew only one person living here. Everyone was asking why retire to a place where you have no friends or family. I told them that I would soon make friends. 7 years on (despite the pandemic) I have lots of friends now because Inverness is a warm & welcoming City. I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.

Eden Court in Inverness rivals any arts venue in Glasgow or Edinburgh. Not only does it consistently attract big names, the layout lends itself to creative collaboration. I have met fellow creatives for planning meetings there, and I have networked and socialised there. I have seen world class musicians under canvas in the grounds of Eden Court. And I have kept up to date with current films while also enjoying art house cinema. It surprises me how much we punch above our weight in Inverness in terms of the creative arts. In nearby Nairn we also have a world class Book and Arts festival.

Lying back on a thick mattress of heather on the cliff tops on the Caithness east coast shifts your perspective entirely. The stillness of the moorland is replaced by thrilling suspension as just a few feet away from you the land drops vertically into the churning North Sea – steady rhythmic booming waves crashing against hidden geo inlets – the updrafts sweeping up the stone face carrying salty spray that blends with the familiar honey scent of the purple heather – terns and gulls dancing in the wind

The amazing amateur classical music activity across Highland! We have numerous talented and ambitious ensembles such as Inverness Symphony Orchestra. Groups such as this are part of the lifeblood of Highland musical culture.

The beauty of the landscape and the friendliness of the people.

Inverness and the Highlands is full of history and hidden cultures that the world should know about. The new castle museum and bistro was a joy to visit. And it thoroughly explains why cultures and traditions are important to the Highlands. The people of Inverness are always very welcoming. The people have great craic and the music in the pubs is even better. From traditional ceilidh music to local rock music, there is something for everyone. I’m sure we can all agree seeing Scotland at the World Cup brought a smile to everyone’s face. Let’s bring the world to Inverness!

The trees, you can find such big trees here, right on our doorsteps; cedar, spruce, fir and pine. They take me to places far away, they take me back in time.

The cultural diversity and friendliness of the population. As a Highlander, but only a very recent resident of Inverness, I have also been delighted to discover how much is happening in the city in the way of music, theatre, Gaelic/Highland culture, sport and leisure activities; and also the number and variety of good restaurants and lovely cafes, artisan bakeries, etc, that seem to be around every corner. There is a definite buzz in the city centre. All this and the city’s beautiful setting on the river – what more could one ask for?

How diverse the history and people are. The artefacts, landscapes, houses and castles that tell the story. Look at the Rose window that has been included within the museum, Loch Ness, Nessie and Morag.

As we took the small ferry over from Arisaig to Eigg last year, a pod of dolphins swam along beside us in the sunshine. Everything – the light reflecting on the waves, the sunshine, the wind, the scenery – came together in that moment of perfection.

I have been living here for over two decades and the beauty of the light in the sky over the mountains after rain still catches my breath every time.

The Highlands represent opportunity and a strong sense of purpose. As I begin my early career, they remind me to stay grounded, embrace challenges, and build a future inspired by the people, landscapes, and values that make this place unique.