Runrig to form part of opening exhibition at Inverness Castle
The band's music will be included as part of the revamped landmark's 'Highland Music Experience and Bar'
New design images have been released showing the transformation of Inverness Castle, with Runrig now set to be included in the project.
The band's music and stories will form part of an opening exhibition at the 'Highland Music Experience and Bar' which will be located within the North Tower.
Founding members Calum and Rory MacDonald have welcomed the announcement, which comes on the eve of their 50th anniversary.
Images have been released on how the famous 'Rose window' will be incorporated into the project and how a new restaurant will look.
Pictures have also been released on the vision for a revamped roof terrace and gardens.
Exhibition an opportunity to share Runrig memories
Visits to the castle will start in the gardens, where Gaelic language and culture has inspired the design and interpretation of the plants and features to create a relaxing and informative area to stay a while and to enjoy spectacular views down the River Ness.
The Highland Music Experience and Bar is set share the best of Highland music, food and drink.
It will highlight and acknowledge the contribution of musicians to the culture of the Highlands.
One of Runrig's founding members Calum says it's "exciting" to be involved.
He said: "When we started playing together as Runrig in Skye all these years ago I wouldn’t have imagined that we’d reach this 50 year milestone.
"It’s exciting to be involved with the Inverness Castle Experience, and the new exhibition will mean people who enjoy our music will have a way to come together to share their own memories of their connection with the band over the years."
His brother and co founder of the band Rory added: "Through being invited to be a part of the Highland Music Experience, we’ll have an opportunity to share some memories of the band’s journey, and to involve and acknowledge the support of the people who’ve enjoyed the music over the years – it was certainly that initial support from Highland audiences that sent us on our way, something we’ve always been acutely aware of."
Inverness Castle will be 'must see' attraction
Within the South Tower of the castle, visitors will be able to explore Highland culture and scenery, through in person guides and a full 360-degree immersive experience.
Fergus Ewing, MSP, Co-chair of the Inverness Castle Delivery Group says he's thrilled to have Runrig on board.
He said: "I am delighted that we’ve reached this important milestone in creating a visitor attraction that will be a gateway for Highland tourism and an international attraction that will be a must-see!
“The details released today illustrate the creativity and innovation that visitors to the Inverness Castle Experience can enjoy when it opens in 2025.
"We want to make sure that everyone visiting the Inverness Castle Experience has a brilliant time – and that they come back for more on a future visit!
"It is important that we ensure that every visitor has a first-rate experience, inspiring them to venture to other parts of the Highlands, connecting with people and places across the area, and uncovering their own stories as they travel.
"We are thrilled to have Runrig members Calum and Rory MacDonald here with us today on the eve of the 50th anniversary of the band to announce that their work will feature in a new exhibition in the North Tower."
Scottish Government Wellbeing Economy Secretary Neil Gray added: "I welcome further progress in designing an Inverness Castle experience which can attract tourists from around the world and generate jobs and investment for Inverness and the surrounding area.
“Through the Inverness and Highland City-Region Deal, the Scottish Government is helping create a fair and growing economy which supports local businesses.”
UK Government minister for Scotland Malcolm Offord said: It's great to see Inverness Castle is on the High Road to success, with the design update marking another step closer to the site being open to the public"
"Its transformation will create a must-see attraction in keeping with its heritage that will help to boost the region's economy and bring visitors and tourists to the local area.
"The UK Government is supporting the Castle through its investment in the project as part of the ÂŁ53.1 million Inverness and Highland City-Region Deal."
The Inverness Castle project, opening in 2025, will benefit from ÂŁ30m investment to support its re-development from the Scottish and UK Governments, The Highland Council, Highlands and Islands Enterprise and a range of other partners.
The Inverness Castle project is part of the Inverness and Highland City-Region Deal, which is a joint initiative supported by up to ÂŁ315m 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.