'Major milestones' reached in Inverness Castle transformation
The attraction is set to open this year
Last updated 17th Feb 2025
An iconic Rose Window has now been installed at a new Highland attraction which is set to open this year.
The refurbished window, which was previously situated on the church and later restaurant on Inverness' Inglis Street, is now in place at the city's castle experience.
Glazing on the new link building is also now complete, with those behind the project saying two "major milestones" have now been reached.
The window is suspended from the ceiling within the South Tower, in a bespoke steel frame.
Those involved with the attraction outlined how it has been restored to showcase its original craftsmanship, creating a breathtaking focal point in the room where visitors will immerse themselves in the stories of the Highlands.
Leader of Inverness City and Area and Co-chair of the Inverness Castle Project Delivery Group, Councillor Ian Brown said: "We are delighted to celebrate these major milestones for the Inverness Castle Experience.
"The completion of glazing on the link building and the restoration and installation of the Rose Window highlight the project’s balance between contemporary design and respect for the Highlands’ heritage.
"Visitors will be able to savour the unique atmosphere of the Saltire Bistro in the new building, and marvel at the beautifully restored Rose Window as part of their journey through the experience in the South Tower.”
The Rose Window was originally crafted in 1867 and a once prominent feature in the centre of Inverness.
It was removed in the 1980s due to needing to expand the road for the construction of the Eastgate Centre.
It was kept in storage for decades, but will now be a focal point of the whole attraction.
The link building, which is now wind and watertight, will house the castle's new 'Satire bistro'.
Designed by the renowned LDN Architects in collaboration with NARRO structural engineers, the structure draws inspiration from the Scottish Saltire.
The Inverness Castle project is part of the Inverness and Highland City-Region Deal, which 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.