Could this street be the Inverness Grassmarket?
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Edinburgh's Grassmarket is known for having artisan shops, local producers and an array of independent shops. Now, Inverness may have its own answer to the popular tourist destination – minus the sombre history.
Castle Street in the Highland's capital hosts a number of independent and locally owned shops. From whisky caves to art treasure troves to fine dining and outdoor apparel, Castle Street is home to a vast variety of businesses.
Speaking about why she thinks Castle Street is a gem, Castle Gallery owner Denise Collins said: "Castle Street is the Grassmarket of Inverness!
"Everybody on Castle Street - or most of us - own and operate our businesses. They are truly local independent businesses in a way that I don't think you find in any other street in Inverness!
"Also, we've all been here quite a long time. The new Merchant's Delicatessen has opened too which is a brilliant addition to Castle Street!
"However, it is neglected. If you look at the BID area you've got the Victorian Market in the centre and the Eastgate drawing the publicity and the surrounding streets. You have the city centre and this prong which is Castle Street, and I don't think we get enough publicity and events happening here!
"I would imagine once the Castle is open more people would come."
David Traill, owner of outdoor specialists, Grahams added: "Owners here are looking forwards to seeing the Castle developed and increased footfall. It's a relatively buoyant area of the town despite the challenges that the council have out in our way.
"Parking is still a huge issue - the loss of parking for stores like ourselves is a challenge.
"I think Castle Street is on the up and you've got forward thinking businesses who are willing to invest, and a lot of local people in employed on Castle Street. We are hoping for a good 2024, looking forward.
"I think Castle Street is a good place to be! It's not been the easiest place to run business over the past few years!"
"However, it can't thrive in a vaccum. We need to bring people into town."
