The Eden Court Theatre is the largest entertainment venue in the Scottish Highlands and one of the community’s main cultural centers. Take a drama class, view an independent film or enjoy a meal at the theatre’s excellent on-site restaurant.
Established in 1976, the theatre underwent a major two-year renovation in the late 20th century and reopened in 2007. The new design incorporates the Victorian-era Bishop’s Palace, as well as the original theatre building. Admire lovely landscaped gardens leading to the theatre from the banks of the River Ness.
Notice the six wind towers on the roof of the theatre. The towers are part of the building’s remarkable stack-assisted natural ventilation system, one of the first of its kind in the country. This system eliminates the need for mechanical air conditioning, helping to reduce the theatre’s energy consumption.
Pick up a programme in the main foyer to find out what events are taking place during your visit. Varied selections of musicals, comedies, ballets, operas, dramas and children’s shows take place in the theatre’s two auditoriums: the Empire Theatre and the OneTouch Theatre.
Check out a Hollywood blockbuster or art-house film in one of the building’s two underground cinemas. You can also sign up for one of the classes hosted at the theatre, which range from animation and dance to storytelling and music.
Head to the theatre’s main dining venue, the Eden Court Restaurant, for lunch or dinner. The menu at this crowd-pleasing restaurant includes everything from Cullen skink to elaborate three-course dinners. For lighter fare, try the Cafe at Eden Court, which offers a fine selection of pastries, scones and teas.
Follow the glazed walkway leading from the theatre to the restored Bishop’s Palace building. Dating back to 1876, the palace includes a small permanent exhibit dedicated to its construction and history.
The Eden Court Theatre is located on the banks of the River Ness, south of Inverness’ city centre. Walk to the theatre from the city’s bus or train stations. The theatre is a 20-minute drive from Inverness Airport. Find the box office directly inside the front doors.
