Bught Park, Inverness

Bught Park is the largest recreational area in Inverness, located on the western bank of the picturesque River Ness, about a mile southwest of the city center. This versatile parkland has become a cornerstone of community and sports activities in the city, combining rich historical roots with modern amenities.

Originally part of the Bught House estate, the park occupies land once home to an 18th-century stately home that was demolished in the 1960s to make way for the Inverness Ice Centre. Today, Bught Park is a dynamic venue that hosts a wide range of events and facilities. It is particularly renowned as the site of the annual Inverness Highland Games, a celebration of traditional Scottish culture, and a small-scale outdoor music festival.

Bught Park is a sports hub, featuring a 5,000-capacity stadium with a renowned shinty pitch. It hosts major events like the Camanachd Cup Final and Composite Rules Shinty/Hurling Internationals. Home to Inverness Shinty Club since the 1920s, it is considered a top venue for shinty in Scotland. In 2009, it faced controversy when the council offered the stadium to a football team without consulting the shinty club.

The surrounding parkland enhances the area's appeal, offering a variety of attractions such as the Floral Hall, the Inverness Ice Centre, and the Inverness Leisure Centre, which includes an aquadome and an athletics stadium. Visitors can also enjoy a miniature golf course, a caravan park, and a campsite, making Bught Park an excellent destination for families, tourists, and sports fans alike.

Bught Park's historical legacy, vibrant event calendar, and extensive facilities make it a vital and beloved part of Inverness’s cultural and recreational life.