Beauly, Dingwall, Loch Ness and the Black Isle Inverness Newsletter 2013
A chance to update ourselves ready for the new season. Thank you to all the businesses for contributed articles.
March 2013
Explore Scotland Ltd 01796 473335 The newsletter • Gives you the latest Inverness tourist business news • Written by the businesses themselves
Inside this issue:
Article
page
Explore Scotland
1
Explore Scotland
2
New Era
3
Highland Souvenirs 3 The Waterfront
4
Major Events
5
The Castle Gallery
6
The Dores Inn
7
Culloden Battlefield 7 Cawdor Castle
Explore Inverness Start of the Season Newsletter
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Explore Inverness
pics will be felt this year as there was so much positive coverage.
Good luck to us
Tourism
Indications’ - speaking all in the 2009 to one or two busi2012 by all accounts was a much tougher nesses, attractions and accommodation Tourist Season. year for the Scottish tourism industry, many providers is that their forward bookings are Ingood. the year of crossed for 2013. So fingers tourism businesses across Scotland told us looking The “gone are the days of opening the doors What makes Explore Inverness and visitors flocking in”. Homecoming The factors that most people mentioned was the poor weather and the Olympics having a negative effect. I always remember what businesses in and around St Andrews and East Fife say about the year the Open is played at St Andrews. I am told that the year after the Open is when they see the benefits, while the year of the Open is a tougher year. So hopefully the feel good effect from the Olym1
different?
“It is more than just a brochure!” We promote Inverness using four different forms of communications:1. Printed Explore Guides— the style is not graffiti adverting but short pieces of information supported by maps. (Graffiti advertising, is where the advertiser buys a space in a publication and do what ever they want with the space, colours fonts, size etc). I always say when you read a newspaper how often do you read the adverts, but you will read the editorial. We aim to make our publication a good guide to the area, so visitors get the most out of their stay.
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Explore Inverness Tourism Newsletter 2013
Explore Scotland •
etc
3. Start of the Season News — we invite businesses to tell us all their news for the new season. Visitors want to know what is happening across the whole area, so please read the articles and let them know.
2. Explore Inverness web site — is one of a network of 11 web sites across Scotland working together. We are pleased to report that www.Explore-Inverness.com has a high profile when you carry out searches in Google:•
5th “Inverness Scotland”;
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2nd “Inverness Restaurants;
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2nd “Inverness cafes”
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4th “Inverness bars”
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2nd “Inverness shops”;
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3rd “Inverness shopping”;
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4th “Inverness attractions”;
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3rd “Inverness loch ness”
4. Social Media — I read somewhere recently that marketing is 40% social media (Facebook, Twitter, You Tube etc), 40% web site content and 20% search engine optimisation. Well, we are active in all three Social Media categories • mentioned here, promoting Inverness and the highlands. •
hear from Chisholms of Inverness Dores Inn and the Store House And more …
YOU Tube – we have one or two videos Your Comments and Feed back is VERY that are specifically focused on Inver- important to us – Please would you ness and the Highlands:give us your comments on anything we do. Our objective is to produce an infor• Meet the two galleries at Rivermative and useful tourist guide promotside Gallery ing Inverness, supported by tourism • Meet the chef at Cinnamon Res- businesses. taurant If you think we can do anything better • Hear about Caledonian Collect- or differently to make life easier for you and your visitors, please pop an e-mail ables and the great deal offer to james@explorescotland.net and let • Want to know more about Kilts us have your views.
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March 2013
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New Era Cruises New Era Solar-Powered Boat – 10th Year Anniversary. It may come as a surprise that a unique s o l a r powered boat has been plying the waters around Inverness since July 2003. In recent years the “New Era” has been available for sightseeing trips from North Kessock during the summer months May – September. The quiet running of the boat makes for
a calm and inspiring experience. Dolphins are the obvious attraction and we encounter them on many of the trips. But there is much more: Spend at least some time looking up from the water at the majestic panorama of mountains in the west under ever-changing light. Look Trips depend on calm weather east and “Dolphins and timings vary with the tides. see the are the However, solar power does not Kessock mean that the sun must be shinobvious Bridge with different attraction ing for the boat to work; a fair amount of energy is stored. Why eyes as and we not try a midsummer-twilight the amazing piece of enencounter cruise? Or why not discover that gineering it is. On the them on there is something uniquely atnorth shore we see the white cottages of pictur- many of the mospheric about gliding over still water in the pouring rain under a esque Charleston and trips.” roof of solar panels? North Kessock against the backdrop of forestA solar boat is for more than just clad Ord Hill. sunny days. This year will see the New Era’s 10th birthday, and special events
Highland Souvenirs We are a small, local family run souve- ness card. Just pop in and we will do it nir and gift shop. We constantly strive at the till. to offer our visitors a unique shopping This year we have employed fluent Gerexperience and can safely state that we man, Italian and French speakers and I offer the best service and the most extend to all readers the opportunity to competitively priced gifts and souvenirs contact Josef at the shop if you feel you than anyone else with in the city. We might need a translator, even to the are prepared to offer our cusextent of working out if tomers the further assurance of your customers want “We are giving them the twice the differtheir eggs boiled or ence if they see the same item opposite Costa scrambled. Just pick up at a lower price anywhere else. coffee on Inglis the phone. We would be happy to help furStreet. In addition to the usual nish your breakfast rooms with credit card facilities, we the latest Scottish related Open 9am till are the only retailer in coasters, aprons, table mats 10pm, 7 days Inverness accepting euro etc at a 15% discount on pronotes and coins for pura week.” duction chases, even giving of your change in euros!! relevant busiWe are located opposite Costa coffee on Inglis street and we trade from 9am till 10pm, 7 days a week. 3
I hope we all have a busy season ahead, good luck to Inverness, Martin. 1 5 I n g l i s Street, IV1 1HN Tel:-01463 713 475.
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Explore Inverness Tourism Newsletter 2013
The Waterfront Restaurant & Bar We welcome children and offer the little ones their own selection of favourite dishes. We also keep them entertained with some colouring sheets & crayons. It is not just the décor and the menu that got a new look after the fire; the bar also has a fresh selection of drinks on offer, which includes real ales, malt whiskies and speciality coffees and liqueurs. A new addition to our drinks list is a Whisky Flight, which is made up of three malts from different regions of Scotland. Evening entertainment is provided every Thursday night with a traditional Scottish folk session performed by Kenny Jamieson (Lead singer Schiehallion). There is also entertainment one Saturday a month in July, August and September with local Scottish Ceilidh We were forced to close our doors in When the public house first opened its band Schiehallion. December 2011 after a devastating fire doors over a hundred years ago, it was The Waterfront is always offering somebroke out in our kitchen. But after called “Friars Shott” after the Domini- thing new so if you don’t visit you will tasteful refurbishment and a stunning can friars who cast their fishing nets miss something good. new menu, we reopened on 17th across the river from the bank in front Lunch is served Monday to Friday from March 2012 and have of the bar. Pulling in the 12noon to 2pm (Saturday 12noon to “70-71 had a good year, with nets was such a big social 5pm & Sunday 12.30 to 5pm) and dintremendous support occasion that it was dener is served every day from 5pm. To Huntly St from our local Guest clared an annual local holimake a reservation telephone The WaHouses and Bed & day and all the community terfront on 01463 233870. Booking is Inverness IV3 5JN Breakfasts. Our reopenwould come out to help. advisable for evening meals. ing came as welcome These days our legendary Tel 01463 We also cater for large group appointnews to all residents and pub is also known for its 233870” ments & bus tours. Parking available. visitors in the Highland warm welcome and good capital especially our food and has been de- We look forward to welcoming you to oldest customer, Ernie, scribed as “a gem of a find” the Waterfront. who visits us almost on Trip Advisor. Awardevery day along with the winning chef Roslyn river ducks that regularly cross the road McIntosh has added delicious original to say hello. dishes to the menu including traditional Our historic building is steeped in the Scottish favourites, steaks, grills, vegetraditions and folklore of the past. tarian options and an extensive seafood selection along with a mouthwatering medley of desserts to finish. For diners not familiar with traditional Scottish food, the Highland tapas for two is the perfect sharing platter. It gives our customers the chance to sample a collection of customary nibbles. All meals are made from the finest local produce and cooked to order, and every dish on our menu is reasonably priced. 4
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Explore Inverness Tourism Newsletter 2013
2013 Major Events Programme 8 September 2013 Kirking of the Council – The City of Inverness Kirking of the Council is an event rooted in tradition dating back some 400 years. The Kirking involves a morning procession full of colour and pageantry, Highland Council members and officials in bright red robes walk from the Town House to www.InvernessFestivals.com the oldest church in Inverness, The Old High Church, to seek God's blessing on 11 May 2013 Inverness Classic Car the work of elected members, officials Show City Centre - A record number of and the life of the city. 83 cars turned out for the 4th Classic www.InvernessFestivals.com Vehicle Show in 2012. Classic Vehicles lined the city centre streets and entertainment included stilt walkers, unicy- 10-12 October 2013 Street Theatre clists, salsa dancers and musicians. Festival City Centre - The city centre is Kids were also able to take part in cir- brought to life with three days of madcus skills and craft making as well as ness, mayhem and fun! A packed programme of entertainment, music and free face painting. street theatre at the Victorian Market, www.InvernessFestivals.com High Street and Eastgate Shopping Centre every day between 12.30 and 7-9 June Rock Ness - The full schedule 4pm. will be announced closer to the event. www.InvernessBID.co.uk/events For up to date information please follow RockNess on 25 -26 October 2013 Halloween Show www.Rockness.co.uk Ness Islands - One of the biggest fancy dress parties staged in the Scotland. 9 June 2013 Armed Forces Day – Since the event was first staged in Starts with a parade through Inverness 2009, the Ness Islands children’s show City Centre ending up at the Northern inspires hundreds of families to dress Meeting Park. Check web site for de- up in order to scare away an annual invasion of ghosts, beasties and untails mentionables. The two hour show feawww.ArmedForcesDay.org.uk/ tures a dazzling array of effects and events.aspx performances.
6-10 November 2013 Inverness Film Festival - annual film festival, includes premiere and listings at Eden Court, Inverness.
www.InvernessFestivals.com 11-14 July Scottish Open Golf - returns to Castle Stuart where the spectators enjoy great viewing perspectives made 5 November 2013 Fireworks Display possible by the unique topography of The annual City of Inverness Bonfire and Fireworks Display in Bught Park is this much heralded links course one of the most popular events staged www.CastleStuartGolf.com in the Highland Capital.
www.InvernessFestivals.com
29-30 March 2013 Easter Treasure Hunt City Centre - 11am till 4pm, hunt for the eggs in the city centre shops with the help of a sheet of cryptic clues. FREE family fun with Easter bunnies, Face Painting, Ceramic Painting with Crafty Monkey, Bubbles the Clown.
www.InvernessFestivals.com 20 July 2013 Inverness Highland Games - Founded in 1822 is one of the most spectacular traditional Gatherings staged in Scotland. Held at the Northen Meeting Park.
www.InvernessFestivals.com 10 November 2013 Remembrance Day War Memorial - Members of the Inverness Branch of the Royal British Legion Scotland and The Highland Council, staff and unformed youth groups and local MP’s and MSPs. The parade sets off from Huntly Street at 2:20pm and arrives at Cavell Gardens at 2:50pm. A Service of Remembrance takes place at 3pm at the Cenotaph at Cavell Gardens in Inverness. www.InvernessFestivals.com 17 November 2013 Christmas Lights Town House - Fun for all the family as Santa, Arts in Motion and the cast of the Eden Court Pantomime start the 2013 countdown to Christmas with a wonderful show on the steps of Inverness Town House. www.InvernessFestivals.com 13 -15 December 2013 Winter Wonderland Whin Park - Santa and his reindeer friends return for their annual visit to enjoy the illuminations at Whin Park. This event provides toddlers with the perfect opportunity to start their countdown to Christmas.
31 December 2013 Red Hot Highland Fling TNMPark - Scotland's Biggest Free Hogmanay Party, starts at 8.00pm and you don’t need a ticket, just a smile, to get in. Opening the show will be one of the Highlands hottest new bands. Traditionally the top of the bill spot goes to the band in the 10pm slot. Closing the show, on either side of a fireworks display will another top band. www.InvernessFestivals.com
www.InvernessHighlandGames.com/ 5
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Explore Inverness Tourism Newsletter 2013
The Castle Gallery in Inverness
place costly adverts. In these reces- all those who make it to our exhibition sionary times it is good to get some- previews – see you there! thing for (virtually) nothing! The Castle Gallery in Inverness has woken up to the benefits of facebook. After a slow start, we are beginning to get the hang of it thanks to the excel-
Find us on facebook at castlegalleryinverness and ‘like’ us to be kept up-todate with what is happening at one of the most stylish, cultured and pro-active galleries in the High- “The
lent training sessions organised by Inverness BID and Tuminds. By scheduling a set amount of time each week to update our facebook page we are able to keep like-minded people in touch with all the exciting events at the gallery. This targeted marketing is free, except for staff time, and must really be getting the goat of the advertising sales people in the newspaper industry who are continually phoning to ask us to
lands. As well as mixed exhibitions, we organise solo and two person shows by talented professional artists. For 2013 we will be exhibiting pieces by Katrin Moye, Janine Partington, Blandine Anderson, Shazia Mahmood and Katy Spong, encompassing ceramics, enamels, sculpture, jewellery, original prints and paintings. For more information find us on the web, on facebook and on foot. A free glass of wine and home-made canapés awaits
Castle Gallery in Inverness has woken up to the benefits of facebook. “
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Explore Inverness Tourism Newsletter 2013
The Dores Inn Come and enjoy the breathtaking views of Loch Ness at The DORES INN this SPRING; Whether it be for a walk along the beach, a glass of wine, a pint of one of our real ales or a delicious meal in the pub.
The DORES INN, Loch Ness, Inverness, IV2 6TR. Tel 01463 751203 Only 10 minutes from Inverness
We look forward to welcoming you. Please give one of the team a call if you would like us to book you a table. Visit our sister restaurant at Foulis The STOREHOUSE Restaurant & Farm Shop Foulis Ferry, Evanton IV16 9UX Tel: 01349 830038
“Visit our Sister Restaurant and Farm Shop The Storehouse at Foulis Ferry Evanton”
Culloden Battlefield Culloden Battlefield & Visitor Centre is now on Facebook! Visit www.facebook.com/cullodenbattlefield for up to date news, event information and to leave posts and comments.
Culloden Battlefield a National Trust for Scotland property. Events coming up at Culloden Battlefield:
“Culloden Battlefield & Visitor Centre is now on Facebook!”
This year sees the continuation of the proud tradition of the Annual Commemoration Service which will be held by the Inverness Gaelic Society on Saturday 13th April at 11am (Arrival at 10am is recommended).
This year there will also be three special lectures held on the anniversary weekend: Friday 12th April – Why the Jacobite ’45 Matters (Dr Christopher Duffy) Saturday 13th April – Men and Weapons of Culloden (Dr. Christopher Duffy) Sunday 14th April – Charlie Meg and Me : A Journey Following the Prince's 7
Escape After Culloden (Gregor Ewing) Spaces will be limited for these events so please phone the Centre on 0844 493 2159 to avoid disappointment.
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Explore Inverness Tourism Newsletter 2013
Cawdor Castle temporary sculptures throughout. The nature trails vary in length from 3/4 of a mile to 5 miles and are waymarked through the Cawdor Big Wood. It is outstanding as an ancient oak wood with rich lichen and diverse ground flora. There is a programme of events throughout the Summer with highlights including our
Cawdor Castle opens its doors from 1 May to 6 October to welcome visitors again.
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Open Air theatre performances and (still to be confirmed at time of going to press)
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Living Food at Cawdor Castle event on 21 September which showcases the best of Highland food, drink and crafts and is a very popular fun day out for all the family.
ture, books and porcelain.
“The Cawdor Big Wood, is outstanding as an ancient oak wood with rich lichen and diverse ground
Located near to Inverness and Nairn,
In this, the Year of Natural This fairy-tale castle has Scotland, we are promoting been the home of the our beautiful gardens and Thanes of Cawdor for over our nature trails to visitors. 600 years and is still the We are open every day from 10am to The gardens are perceived 5.50pm and more details are available family home. Romantically to be amongst the best in on www.cawdorcastle.com linked by Shakespeare with ScotMacbeth, the castle is a picl a n d ture perfect example of a Scottish castle with its medieval tower, are full of colour drawbridge and turrets and contains a and contrast with consuperb collection of tapestries, furni- fascinating
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