Highland Archive Centre, Inverness
Explore centuries of Highland history and genealogy at Inverness’s dedicated archive and family history centre.
The Highland Archive Centre in Inverness is a vital repository preserving centuries of Highland history and heritage. Located on Bught Road, it houses extensive collections of documents, maps, photographs, and family history records dating from the 13th century to the present. The centre offers public access to archives, a dedicated Family History Room, and expert assistance, making it a key destination for genealogists and history enthusiasts exploring the Scottish Highlands.
A brief summary to Highland Archive Centre
- Highland Archive and Registration Centre, Bught Rd, Inverness, IV3 5SS, GB
- +441349781130
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Budget
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 10 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Book family history consultations in advance to secure a slot with expert researchers.
- Use the online catalogue before your visit to identify archives you want to access.
- Take advantage of free parking available on-site for a hassle-free visit.
- Lockers are provided to store coats and bags while you conduct your research.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Lockers
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Local bus services from Inverness city centre to Bught Road run frequently, taking approximately 15-20 minutes. Tickets cost around £2-£4. Buses operate Monday to Saturday, with limited service on Sundays.
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Car
Driving from central Inverness to the Highland Archive Centre takes about 10 minutes via local roads. Free parking is available on-site, but spaces can be limited during peak times.
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Taxi
A taxi from Inverness city centre to the Archive Centre typically takes 10 minutes and costs approximately £8-£12. Taxis are readily available throughout the city.
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Walking
For those staying nearby, walking to the centre from Inverness city centre takes around 40 minutes along accessible pavements. The route is mostly flat but may be challenging in poor weather.
Highland Archive Centre location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Highland Archive Centre
A Gateway to Highland Heritage
The Highland Archive Centre, situated on Bught Road in Inverness, serves as the main hub for preserving and providing access to the historical records of the Scottish Highlands. Its collections span over seven centuries, from the 13th century through to modern times, covering the counties of Inverness, Nairn, Ross and Cromarty, and Sutherland. The archives include a diverse range of materials such as charters, minute books, correspondence, accounts, maps, photographs, and films, offering a comprehensive window into the region’s past.Exploring the Collections and Facilities
Visitors can explore the archives in the public searchroom or the Family History Room, which is dedicated to genealogical research and clan history. The centre is equipped with microfilm and microform readers, public access computers for online resources, and a specialist Conservation Studio to preserve delicate documents. Lockers are available for visitors to securely store personal items during their research sessions. The centre also offers family history consultations, both in-person and remotely, providing expert guidance for tracing ancestry.Research Support and Services
Staff at the Highland Archive Centre are knowledgeable and approachable, ready to assist with research inquiries and help visitors navigate the extensive collections. Additional documents can be ordered during visits, and remote research services are available for those unable to attend in person. The centre’s online catalogue, containing nearly 100,000 archive descriptions, helps visitors identify relevant records before their visit.Visiting Experience and Accessibility
The centre is open to the public on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm, with free parking available on-site. Access to the Family History Room is via stairs or a passenger lift, ensuring ease of movement for visitors with mobility needs. The atmosphere is quiet and studious, fostering a focused environment for deep historical exploration.Significance to the Community and Beyond
As a custodian of Highland history, the Archive Centre plays a crucial role in preserving the cultural identity of the region. It supports local government records management and serves as a wedding venue, highlighting its multifunctional role in the community. For genealogists, historians, and anyone interested in the Highlands’ rich heritage, the centre is an invaluable resource.Planning Your Visit
Visitors are encouraged to contact the centre in advance to ensure availability of records and services. While booking is not essential, it helps in arranging access to specific documents or consultations. Contactless payments are preferred, but cash is accepted when necessary. The centre’s friendly staff provide a warm welcome and expert assistance, making every visit productive and engaging.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Ness Bank Church
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Best Western Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa
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Inverness Scotland
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Redcliffe Hotel, Restaurant and Beer Garden
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Inverness Crazy Golf
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Ness Islands Railway Ltd
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Inverness Botanic Gardens and Café
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Whin Park
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Inverness Leisure
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The Highlands’ largest leisure centre offering pools, gym, athletics, climbing, and wellness facilities for all ages and abilities.
Circle of Wise
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Bught Park Pitches
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Memory of Jock Dyce
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Ness Islands
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Holm Mills Shopping Village
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Hame Tours
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Hydro Ness
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Pier Ness Viewpoint
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Essential places to dine
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Loch Ness House Beefeater
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Contrast Brasserie Inverness
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The Waterside Restaurant
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Tiger on The Wall
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Hou Hou Mei
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La Tortilla
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Encore
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Cafe 1
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The Kitchen Restaurant
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Zizzi - Inverness
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nar
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Coyote Burger
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Number 27 Bar and Kitchen
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Aye Eat
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Dalneigh Stores
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Highland House of Fraser
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Rouge Boutiques
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The Merchant
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James Pringle Weavers of Inverness
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The Whisky Shop
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Judith Glue
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Primark
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Minimalist Designs
For the architecture buff
- Modern
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Family History
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
