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6 Art Galleries in Inverness That’ll Impress and Inspire All Kinds of Art Lovers!
Art galleries can be oddly intimidating. The moment I step in, I become hyper-aware of everything–why is everyone nodding? What are they murmuring? Should I take notes?
Once, I stared so intently at a painting and the guy next to me nodded. I nodded back. Suddenly we were nodding and humming as if we understood each other. I don’t know about him, but I had no clue what he was saying but I refused to break character.
Even though I know nothing about art, that doesn’t stop me from visiting galleries all over Inverness–awkward nodding and all. In fact, I’ve got a couple of favorites, and since I’m feeling extra generous, I’ll let you in on them. Let’s dive right in!
Inverness Museum and Art Gallery
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Website: https://www.facebook.com/InvMAG/
Address: Castle Wynd
Contact Information: +44 1349 781730 or [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday: 12 PM – 4 PM
- Friday to Saturday: 11 AM – 4 PM
Admission Fee: Free (but donations are welcome!)
What I love about the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery is that it’s right at the heart of the city. Thus, it makes a great stop while you’re exploring, especially if you love both art and history, as this museum gives you the best of both worlds.
To boot, it’s free–so don’t be surprised if you catch me there every now and then as the exhibits change regularly. Hence, there’s always something new to see, from quirky local treasures to contemporary artworks.
If you’re thinking about bringing the kiddos, I’d say bring ‘em as the museum has a ton of hands-on displays and activities that make for an educational and fun experience.
Pro Tip: Don’t skip the gift shop! There are a ton of great locally-made crafts and souvenirs to bring home.
Castle Gallery
Media Credit: castleartgallery
Website: https://www.castlegallery.co.uk/
Address: 5 Castle Street
Contact Information: +44 1463 233 500
Operating Hours: Monday to Saturday: 10 AM – 5 PM
Admission Fee: Free
Just as its name suggests, the Castle Gallery is both a castle and an independent gallery. My favorite thing? It’s home to the works of many local artists, from handmade ceramics by Ian McWhinnie to dramatic paintings by Katherine Sutherland.
Beyond that, the exhibitions are incredibly diverse, featuring everything from abstract art to contemporary pieces–ensuring there’s something for every taste and interest.
That said, you can even buy the paintings, sculptures, and prints on display! Since the gallery is the hub to find works by Scottish and UK artists, it’s a fantastic spot for collectors looking for unique, original works.
Pro Tip: Be sure to check out their rotating exhibitions so you don’t miss out on their limited-time displays.
Scottish Flair Art Gallery
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Website: https://www.scottishflair.com/
Address: 11 Bank Street
Contact Information: +44 1463 250050 or [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 9:30 AM – 4 PM
- Saturday: 9:30 AM – 2:30 PM
Admission Fee: Free
If you’re a fan of Scottish Edwardian and Victorian Art, the Scottish Flair Art Gallery is a must-visit. Best known for its impressive collection of 19th-century art, it features everything from oil paintings to intricate etchings–exciting right?
It’s more than just a gallery—it’s also frequented by all art lovers, from enthusiasts to art collectors. Conveniently, the Scottish Flair Art Gallery offers services such as framing, cleaning, restoration, and even valuation!
The best part? Admission is free six times a week, so there’s definitely no excuse not to drop by.
Pro Tip: As you explore each piece, take the time to analyze the details carefully as Victorian and Edwardian art is known for telling its story through symbolism and historical references you may not easily catch at first glance.
Browns Gallery
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Website: https://www.browns-gallery.com/
Address: 81a Castle St
Contact Information: +44 1460 712695 or [email protected]
Operating Hours: Tuesday to Saturday: 10 AM – 5 PM
Admission Fee: Free
Browns Gallery, as its name suggests, was established by Gordon Brown in 1993 and has since been a claimed prominent art gallery in Tain. But if a trip there isn’t in the cards, no worries—you can visit their newest space on Castle Street (cheers, Gordon!).
And trust me, it’s definitely worth a visit. Browns Gallery has one of the most extensive exhibition programs so there’s always something fresh to see and look forward to–whether you’re an art aficionado or simply an admirer of the gallery’s dynamic and evolving collection.
If you’ve fallen in love with one of their pieces, you can buy original artwork right from the gallery. Additional services include framing and restoration, too, ensuring that your new acquisition is perfectly preserved and displayed.
Pro Tip: Don’t miss out on chatting with the staff. Aside from being incredibly friendly, they’re well-versed in the history of each piece. You can even get some exclusive insights on upcoming exhibitions!
Riverside Gallery
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Website: https://riverside-gallery.co.uk/
Address: 11 Bank St
Contact Information: +44 1463 224781 or [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 10 AM – 4 PM
- Saturday: 10 AM – 1 PM
Admission Fee: Free
The Riverside Gallery is a well-loved art destination nestled on the east bank of the River Ness since 1982. Fun fact: my mum used to be a regular!
They’re actually the oldest established professional picture framers in Inverness. She would often get her pictures restored here and have bespoke framing done, which are just a few of the services they offer.
Our team, on the other hand, loves their diverse collection as they’ve got virtually everything from 19th-century etchings to contemporary works by local Highland artists.
Pro Tip: If you’re considering getting a custom frame, be sure to bring your photo or art piece for better measurements and the best advice.
Kilmorack Gallery
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Website: https://www.kilmorackgallery.co.uk/
Address: The Old Kilmorack Church, By Beauly
Contact Information: +44 1463 783230
Operating Hours: Wednesday to Saturday: 10 AM – 5 PM
Admission Fee: Free
One of my favorite features of the Kilmorack Gallery? The giant lizard on the wall. I’m not kidding–Gelen Denerly’s striking, metal sculpture clings to the exterior wall, welcoming guests to the gallery.
Oh, did I mention that the gallery is housed in a historic church? The building itself is steeped in character, and the inside is just as beautiful–if I do say so myself. The diverse collection weaves stories and emotions that span generations through various mediums and styles.
Pro Tip: If you can’t make it in person, no worries–you can still explore their collection through a 3D Virtual Tour, complete with descriptions of each piece.
