Portrait of Mary of Modena by Adriaen van der Werff

Inverness Museum And Art Gallery

Inverness Museum and Art Gallery: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Visitor Guide

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction

Discover the essence of Highland culture, history, and art at the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery (IMAG). Situated in the heart of Inverness, IMAG is a vibrant cultural institution that brings to life the stories, traditions, and natural wonders of the Scottish Highlands. With a legacy stretching back to the late 19th century, the museum welcomes you to explore archaeological treasures, Jacobite relics, contemporary Scottish art, and engaging exhibitions such as the celebrated Gaelic-themed ‘Buaile’. Whether you’re planning a family day out, an educational adventure, or a deep dive into Highland heritage, this guide provides all the essential information for your visit—from opening hours and tickets to accessibility features and collection highlights.

Authoritative sources such as High Life Highland, Visit Scotland, and the Inverness Courier ensure this guide is accurate and up to date.

Scenic view of the Beauly River surrounded by trees and distant hills

Portrait of Prince James Francis Edward Stuart, known as 'The Old Pretender', painted by Alexis Simon Belle

Portrait of King Charles I by Anthony van Dyck

Portrait painting of Charles I by Anthony van Dyck

Portrait of Thomas Wentworth, 1st Earl of Strafford, by Anthony van Dyck

Portrait of Anne Mackintosh, Wife of Baillie James Fraser, Scottish School painting

Historical black and white photo of a British Scottish school teacher Mrs Mitchell of Viewhill with school children

Portrait of a Lady painting by British Scottish School

Portrait painting of Robert Carruthers by Daniel Macnee

Portrait of King Charles I wearing a black doublet and white lace collar painted by Edward Bower

Portrait painting of Louise of Stolberg by François-Xavier Fabre

Portrait painting of James Lyon by George Chinnery

Portrait of King George I with King George II and Queen Caroline

Portrait of James II of England in regal attire

A Wedding Feast by Hieronymus Janssens follower, detailed 17th-century scene of people celebrating at an indoor banquet

Portrait of Prince Charles Edward Stuart wearing a blue sash and red coat

Painting of Christ healing a blind man by follower of Jacob Jacobsz de Wet

Portrait of Andrew Macpherson of Cluny painted by James Worsdale

Portrait of an unknown man in armor by John Baptist de Medina

Figures by a Bridge in a Highland Landscape painting by John Milne Donald

Birch trees in Ardersier, Inverness-shire landscape painting by John Quinton Pringle

The Black Isle from Ardersier landscape painting by John Quinton Pringle

Portrait of King Charles II by Mary Beale

Travelers resting in a rocky landscape by Nicolaes Pietersz Berchem

Blacksmith's shop interior with artisan at work surrounded by tools and glowing forge

Portrait of King Charles II in regal attire

Horses at the blacksmith near a cottage painting by Philips Wouwerman

Puma captured in the wild in Scotland 1980

Portrait of a young girl in historical attire by Rembrandt van Rijn

Portrait of Oliver Cromwell in style of Robert Walker

Thomas Scott portrait from 1854 to 1927 with Barrogill Castle in the background

Portrait of Lieutenant Colonel W. Ferguson in military uniform

History and Cultural Significance

Origins and Architectural Evolution

Founded in 1881, the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery initially resided in the Inverness Town House before moving to its purpose-built modernist home on Castle Wynd in 1963 (High Life Highland). A major refurbishment in 2006 brought interactive galleries and enhanced accessibility, reflecting the museum’s ongoing commitment to community engagement and cultural preservation (Museums Galleries Scotland).

Custodian of Highland Heritage

IMAG’s collections offer a sweeping timeline from Highland prehistory to the present. The museum is renowned for its Pictish stones, Jacobite memorabilia, and evocative displays of Highland dress and craftsmanship. Through these treasures, IMAG preserves and interprets pivotal episodes such as the Pictish era and the Jacobite risings (Highland Pictish Trail; Visit Inverness Loch Ness).

Cultural and Community Impact

The museum is a platform for Highland and Scottish artists, supports the Gaelic language, and offers a calendar of workshops, talks, and special events. Collaborations—such as the Gaelic-inspired ‘Buaile’ exhibition—demonstrate IMAG’s role in sustaining living traditions and contemporary dialogue (ArtMag).

Visitor Information

Location and Getting There

Address: Castle Wynd, Inverness, IV2 3EB, United Kingdom
Public Transport: Short walk from Inverness Railway and Bus Stations; well connected by local buses (See Inverness; TravelSetu)
Parking: Several public car parks nearby; accessible parking available

Opening Hours

April–October: Tuesday to Saturday, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM; closed Sunday and Monday
November–March: Tuesday to Thursday, 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM; Friday and Saturday, 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM; closed Sunday and Monday
Hours may vary on public holidays—check the official website for updates

Admission and Tickets

Entry is free for all visitors; no advance tickets required. Donations are appreciated (Live Breathe Scotland).

Accessibility

Step-free access, lifts to all floors
Accessible toilets, induction loops, baby changing facilities
Assistance dogs welcome
Full details at Euan’s Guide

Highlights of the Collections

Archaeology and Early History

Pictish Stones: Ten symbol stones with ancient motifs and animal carvings (Highland Pictish Trail)
Bronze & Iron Age Artifacts: Tools, jewelry, and pottery from local sites

Jacobite and Highland History

Jacobite Relics: Weapons, personal items, and rare artifacts linked to the 18th-century risings, including a lock of Bonnie Prince Charlie’s hair (Undiscovered Scotland)
Culloden Connections: Memorabilia from the pivotal 1746 battle and its aftermath

Natural History and Geology

Wildlife Dioramas: Native animals such as red deer and golden eagles
Geology Displays: Fossils, rocks, and minerals from the Cairngorms and beyond

Highland Dress: Authentic kilts, tartans, and clan regalia
Traditional Crafts: Tools and objects from local industries

Fine Art and Contemporary Exhibitions

Permanent Collection: Paintings, prints, and sculpture from the 18th century onward
Rotating Exhibitions: Works by Scottish and international artists, including contemporary voices exploring Highland landscapes and identities (High Life Highland Exhibitions)

Special Exhibitions: Gaelic Culture and ‘Buaile’

In early 2025, IMAG is a central venue for ‘Buaile’, a collaborative exhibition celebrating Gaelic language and Highland landscapes. Featuring artists such as Richard Bracken, Mairi Gillies, and Raghnaid Sandilands, ‘Buaile’ invites visitors to engage with themes of land, language, and contemporary identity. The program also includes school workshops and public events, with simultaneous translation for Gaelic and non-Gaelic speakers (Inverness Courier).

Facilities and Amenities

Café: Cozy space for refreshments, hot and cold drinks, snacks, and cakes. Last orders 45 minutes before closing (High Life Highland).
Gift Shop: Highland-inspired crafts, books, and souvenirs
Toilets: Accessible restrooms and baby changing facilities
Cloakroom: Limited space for coats and bags; avoid bringing large luggage

Visitor Experience and Tips

Photography: Non-flash photography is permitted; follow staff guidance
Guided Tours: Available on request for groups and schools—book in advance
Family Friendly: Interactive displays and holiday workshops
Events Calendar: Curator-led tours, talks, and community art projects throughout the year (High Life Highland)
Plan Ahead: Check for seasonal hours, special exhibitions, and events before visiting
Combine Visits: Pair your museum trip with nearby attractions like Inverness Castle, River Ness, and Victorian Market

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the museum’s opening hours?
A: See the “Opening Hours” section above or check the official website for current details.

Q: Is admission free?
A: Yes, entry is free for all visitors; donations are welcome.

Q: Is the museum wheelchair-accessible?
A: Yes, with lifts, accessible toilets, and reserved parking.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, by request. Contact the museum to book.

Q: Can I take photographs?
A: Non-flash photography is allowed in most areas.

Q: Are there facilities for families?
A: Yes, including baby changing, interactive exhibits, and holiday workshops.

Q: Is there parking?
A: Public and accessible parking are located nearby.

Contact Information

Address: Castle Wynd, Inverness, IV2 3EB, United Kingdom
Phone: +44 (0)1463 237114
Email: Via online contact form
Website: Inverness Museum and Art Gallery
Social Media: Follow on Facebook and Twitter for updates

Nearby Attractions

Inverness Castle
River Ness and Ness Islands
Victorian Market
Leakey’s Bookshop
Eden Court Theatre
Culloden Battlefield and Clava Cairns

Conclusion & Call to Action

The Inverness Museum and Art Gallery is more than a collection of artifacts—it’s a dynamic cultural hub connecting visitors to the Highland story through history, art, and community. Its accessible, modern facilities and free admission make IMAG an essential stop for anyone visiting Inverness. For the latest updates on exhibitions and events, visit the official website and download the Audiala app for enhanced audio tours and insider insights. Stay connected on social media for behind-the-scenes stories and announcements.

Whether you are fascinated by ancient Pictish stones, inspired by Gaelic culture, or seeking an educational experience for the whole family, IMAG promises a memorable journey into the heart of the Scottish Highlands (Visit Scotland; Inverness Courier).