The Gathering
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The Gathering is a vibrant, one-day festival celebrating community and creativity in the Highland capital. Held at the Inverness Leisure Centre on 30 May 2026, the event transforms the venue into a bustling hub of fun, inspiration, and connection. Everyone is welcome – whether you’re a local resident, a visitor to the city, or part of the wider Scottish community – and you’ll find something to spark your interest. With a friendly atmosphere and a diverse program of activities, The Gathering is the perfect way to experience the energy and warmth of the Highland spirit.
The program at The Gathering is packed with activities and entertainment to delight visitors of all ages. Enjoy live performances from local musicians, take part in creative workshops where you can learn a new skill or craft, and browse vendor stalls showcasing local art and specialties. Watch thought-provoking talks or interactive demos on technology, culture or even the quirky side of Highland life—each one designed to spark your curiosity. Families can look forward to a fun kids’ corner with games and crafts, while food lovers can sample tasty local treats from Highland food stalls or grab a coffee and chat with friends in our communal lounge area.
Inverness Leisure Centre is nestled on the banks of the River Ness in the heart of the city, making it the perfect venue for The Gathering. As the largest sports and leisure complex in the Highlands, the Centre provides ample event space under one roof—from swimming pools and gym halls to meeting rooms and studios. Its modern, accessible facilities ensure a comfortable and exciting day for all attendees. Plus, its location means you’re never far from the city’s charm. Step outside and enjoy the scenic river walk, or stroll to Inverness Castle for a stunning view. Inverness also makes a great base for exploring the Highlands—Loch Ness, coastal villages and historic castles are all within easy reach after the festival.
What truly makes The Gathering special is its warm, welcoming atmosphere. Everywhere you look, people are chatting and having fun – whether at a workshop table, enjoying live music, or grabbing a bite with new friends. It really feels like a community ceilidh where everyone is invited to join in. Attendees of all ages and backgrounds come ready to participate, learn something new, and make friends. By the end of the day, most people are leaving feeling inspired and connected, bringing home fresh ideas and memories of a day well spent.
So mark your calendar and be part of The Gathering’s excitement. Whether you come as a Highland local or travel from afar, you’re sure to find an unforgettable experience filled with creativity, camaraderie, and fun. Keep an eye on our updates for program details and ticket information. Get ready to share a day of Highland hospitality, fresh ideas, and lively celebration. We can’t wait to see you at the Inverness Leisure Centre for The Gathering!
Inverness is well connected by air, rail, and road. Inverness Airport (about 10 miles from the city centre) offers regular flights to London (City, Gatwick, Heathrow), Manchester, and other destinations via airlines like Loganair and British Airways. Stagecoach Service 11 runs shuttle buses every 30 minutes between the airport and the city centre. For rail travelers, Inverness Station in the city centre is the terminus for ScotRail services from across Scotland. You can catch frequent trains from Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen and the Highlands, and even the overnight Caledonian Sleeper from London. The Inverness Bus Station (near the city centre) also hosts coach services such as Citylink and Megabus, linking Inverness with other major cities and regions.
By road, the A9 is the main north-south highway connecting Inverness with Perth, Glasgow and the Central Belt. The A96 approaches from Aberdeen on the east coast, while the A82 from Fort William brings you along Loch Ness. The Leisure Centre is easy to reach via Bught Lane. On-site parking at Inverness Leisure is limited (though disabled parking is available), so many visitors use nearby public car parks in the city centre and take a short bus or taxi to the venue. If you drive, allow extra time for Highland roads: they can be narrow and winding, and weather conditions change quickly.
Getting around Inverness is straightforward. The city centre is compact and pedestrian-friendly, so many hotels, restaurants and attractions are within walking distance. Local buses run frequently. Stagecoach routes (for example, the 17 or 2) serve Bught Lane, allowing you to catch a bus from downtown directly to the Leisure Centre. A taxi ride from the city centre is only about 5 minutes, and many taxis and ride-share services are available. If you prefer to walk, the Leisure Centre is roughly a 15-20 minute walk from the city’s main commercial area, following scenic paths along the River Ness.
Inverness and the surrounding Highlands offer a wide range of accommodations. In the city you’ll find everything from budget-friendly chain hotels to charming bed-and-breakfasts and serviced apartments, many within easy reach of the Leisure Centre. It’s wise to book early, especially during warm weather seasons, as Highland lodging can fill up. For a quieter stay, consider guesthouses or inns in nearby towns or countryside locations (for example along Loch Ness) – just plan your travel to the city accordingly. Staying in or near Inverness city centre will give you the best access to restaurants, shops, and attractions before and after The Gathering.
| Name | Star | Distance | Prices From | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Park Guest House | 0.1 ml | £32.00 | Book | |
| River Walk | 0.4 ml | £130.00 | Book | |
| Maple Court Hotel | 0.4 ml | £49.00 | Book | |
| Glenmoriston Town House - A Luxury Town House Hotel | 0.5 ml | £59.00 | Book | |
| The Waterside Hotel | 0.5 ml | £39.00 | Book | |
| Ardmeanach House | 0.5 ml | £40.50 | Book | |
| BEST WESTERN Inverness Palace Hotel and Spa | 0.6 ml | £54.90 | Book | |
| The Glen Mhor Hotel | 0.6 ml | £29.00 | Book | |
| Rocpool Reserve hotel & Chez Roux restaurant | 0.6 ml | £170.00 | Book | |
| Columba Hotel - a Bespoke Hotel | 0.6 ml | £40.00 | Book | |
| Beaufort Hotel | 0.6 ml | £50.00 | Book | |
| Armadale Guest House | 0.6 ml | £35.00 | Book | |
| The Strathallan Bed and Breakfast | 0.6 ml | £50.00 | Book | |
| Redcliffe Hotel | 0.7 ml | £48.00 | Book | |
| Luxury apartments 207 & 306 By the Bridge | 0.7 ml | £69.00 | Book |
Inverness Leisure Centre, Bught Lane, Inverness, IV35SS
