Eden Court Theater, Inverness (must see)

Eden Court Theatre, located near the scenic banks of the River Ness in Inverness, is a cornerstone of Scotland’s cultural landscape. Originally opened on April 15, 1976, by actor Andrew Cruickshank MBE, the theatre brought a modern performance venue to the Highlands, a region that had been without a dedicated theatre since the 1930s. Built on the site of the historic Bishop’s Palace, the theatre’s architecture cleverly integrates Gothic heritage with contemporary design, a concept developed by architects Law Dunbar and Naismith.

The theatre has a rich history tied to Inverness's cultural evolution, succeeding earlier venues like the Theatre Royal and the Empire Theatre. These iconic spaces, which once hosted performances by luminaries such as Harry Lauder and The Corries, were lost to fire and demolition. The legacy of these venues lives on through the names of Eden Court’s refurbished spaces.

In 2007, Eden Court was extensively refurbished and expanded by Page\Park Architects and Robertson Construction, adding a second theatre, two cinemas, and upgraded facilities. Now Scotland's largest combined arts center, it features the 840-seat Empire Theatre, the 270-seat One Touch Theatre, and two cinemas, La Scala (125 seats) and Playhouse (78 seats).

The venue continues to honor its community ties and historical roots. For example, the One Touch Theatre's name references the local diabetes monitor produced by LifeScan, while the Jim Love Studio commemorates the late editor of the Inverness Courier. Eden Court also plays host to the annual Inverness Film Festival, showcasing Scottish premieres and international films.

With its rich history, state-of-the-art facilities, and vibrant programming, Eden Court Theatre remains a cultural hub, providing a dynamic space for art, film, and performance in the heart of the Highlands.