About Hilton Community Centre
Hilton Community Centre opened in 1991 as the focal point for Inverness’s large Hilton housing estate (www.highlifehighland.com ). It is run by High Life Highland (the local leisure charity) with the support of a volunteer management committee of local residents and councillors (www.highlifehighland.com ). The centre’s building is modest but practical – set on one level (with lift access) above a street-level foyer. The name “Hilton” (Gaelic Baile a’ Chnuic) literally means “town on a hill”, reflecting its hillside location above the River Ness (kids.kiddle.co ). As a result, it serves as a true community hub: High Life Highland describes it as the “focal point and meeting place for the community of Hilton” with a vibrant mix of activities (www.highlifehighland.com ). Over the decades it has become the go-to venue for everything from sports and clubs to social gatherings, giving residents of all ages one place to gather.
Events and Programming
Hilton Community Centre hosts a diverse range of activities most days of the week. Regular programming includes youth clubs and drop-in sports sessions for children and teens, afternoon fitness classes and tea dances for over-50s, weekly “baby and toddler” clinics (nappy changing facilities are provided) and creative play mornings (www.highlifehighland.com ). There are regular sessions like baby massage, arts and crafts workshops, drop-in badminton, and adult education classes (e.g. languages, crafts, yoga) that swap in and out based on demand (www.highlifehighland.com ). The centre’s large sports hall (covering three badminton courts) sees a variety of local clubs: juniors’ football, basketball, martial arts and indoor hockey clubs all use the space (www.highlifehighland.com ). It’s also known for running supervised holiday camps – for example, in recent years the centre hosted lively ‘Inservice Day’ camps with NERF battles and sports activities for school children (www.ticketfairy.com ), as well as “Blast & Play” fun days during October half-term (www.ticketfairy.com ). More recently (2023), Hilton Community Centre partnered with the Nature 4 Health charity on “Hilton Naturally”, a special free family programme of storytelling and craft sessions set partly outdoors, learning about nature while connecting families (www.inverness-courier.co.uk ). In short, you’ll find something happening nearly every day – from planned classes and keep-fit to one-off family events – with tickets usually free or a few pounds at most, making programmes very affordable.
Tickets and Booking
Unlike theatres, Hilton Community Centre doesn’t have a box office for general ticketed shows. Many events and classes are free or charged by donation (especially drop-in community activities). To attend organised classes, sports clubs or holiday camps, visitors usually register in advance with High Life Highland or the centre itself. Booking is typically done by calling the centre or signing up online via the Highland Council/High Life Highland website materials. The centre also hires rooms and hall space for private parties and meetings – details of hourly rates (which have community or charity discounts) are listed through High Life Highland. In practice, you often just turn up (or call ahead) to check availability: staff at reception can advise on any fees or membership requirements. Popular programmes (like mid-week youth clubs or summer camps) sometimes fill up, so for peace of mind it’s wise to book a slot or ticket at least a few days before via the centre’s office, highlife website or by phone.
Seating and Layout
Internally, the centre is very open-plan. The main attraction is the big games hall – a flexible sports/dance hall that covers three badminton courts in size (www.highlifehighland.com ). There are no fixed rows of seats; instead seating is arranged as needed. For example, events may set up folding chairs in front of the stage area or games courts, or pull out small bleacher benches along the sides. If you’re attending a meeting or performance, you can usually sit on any of the portable chairs or benches – front, middle or back – depending on the setup. For smaller gatherings the centre has three meeting rooms, including the “Dougie’s Den” (a 5m x 4m conference room seating up to 14 around a table) (www.highlifehighland.com ). These rooms have lots of natural light, basic AV equipment (overhead projector, screen) and even an induction loop for hearing support (www.disabilityscot.org.uk ). In practice “best seats” depend on the event: for a talk or film, front-row in the games hall or nearest meeting room is best. For sports demonstrations, any cleared floor space area is fine. The open layout means acoustics are lively (echoey) in the big hall – so sit away from corners to hear more clearly if there’s speech. In short, what you see is what you get: dressed in pale walls and bright gym flooring with no curtains, meaning sight-lines are unobstructed, but you will hear echoes of sneakers and balls in the sports area.
Getting There and Parking
The centre’s postal address is Old Town Road, Hilton Village, Inverness IV2 4HT (www.highlifehighland.com ). It sits on the south side of Inverness about 2km from the city centre (roughly 5 minutes by car). Ample free parking is available on-site right outside the main entrance (including marked disabled parking bays) (www.disabilityscot.org.uk ). The car park is shared with a small public park and the clinic nearby, but there are usually enough spaces for visitors. If parking is full, one side street (MacKay Road) has some limited spaces. For drop-offs and ride-shares, the main entrance on Old Town Road is most convenient – there is a small turning area outside. Public transport works well too: Stagecoach local buses (route 5 and variants 5A/5B/5C) run down Old Town Road. Look for stops named “Old Hilton Hospital” or “Hilton – Mackay Road” – they are just a minute’s walk from the centre. The city’s main train station is in Inverness city centre; from there take a quick taxi or bus to Hilton. A bus journey into the city (to Queensgate bus station downtown) takes about 15–20 minutes. Note that buses run frequently (every 10–15 minutes off-peak), and the last few evening services depart around 11pm on weekdays (so late-night events mean planning your return trip or taxi accordingly).
Inside the Venue
Walking in, visitors find a central reception and foyer with comfortable seating and community noticeboards. You may be greeted by a staff member on duty (ask here for directions or any questions). To the side is the community café: open on weekdays (currently 10am–4pm) (www.highland.gov.uk ), it serves high-quality takeaway and sit-down coffee, tea, cakes and light snacks. The café is popular, so it gets busy when clubs let out early – it’s definitely one of the social hubs here (www.highland.gov.uk ). The restrooms (including a wheelchair-accessible toilet) are located just off the foyer. Beyond reception lie the hall and meeting rooms. The games hall is a large open sports space – it has high ceilings, bright lights and wall-mounted basketball hoops. Sports fixtures like badminton nets and goalposts are often parked to the side when not in use. Lighting is standard fluorescent (no stage lights) and there’s a basic PA mic system for announcements, but nothing elaborate – think “hall” not “theatre” ambience. The meeting rooms are off a side corridor: all are carpeted and set up classroom- or boardroom-style. Each room has a projector, screen or TV/DVD and free Wi-Fi for visitors (www.disabilityscot.org.uk ). Vending machines or water fountains are not provided (you can buy drinks in the café or bring your own water bottle). There is no coat-check room, but coat hooks and storage cubbies are available. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly – people say they feel comfortable rooming here for any local club or class. Visitors are encouraged to sign in at reception if arriving for booked activities, but casual drop-ins can just get settled. Security is minimal, so keep personal belongings with you, but staff usually watch the door and can help if needed.
Nearby Amenities
Hilton Village has a few shops and eateries within easy reach. On Old Town Road (just a couple of minutes’ walk), you’ll find a Domino’s Pizza outlet and a popular Hilton Fish & Chips take-away which is great for a quick meal. There are also a couple of small cafes and convenience stores in the estate (kids.kiddle.co ). For sit-down dining or a pint, the Kings Highway pub is a local favourite (serving pub classics and draft ales, open evenings and weekends). A more modern sit-down option is “The Slide Inn” – a bar with sports TV and pub menu, about a 7-minute walk away. If you want to eat beforehand, it’s wise to reserve or arrive early during peak hours (Saturday nights can get busy). For groceries or essentials, a Tesco Express and a post office are located slightly north on Old Town Road. Family-friendly entertainment (like cinemas or larger restaurants) requires heading into Inverness city centre. Regarding hotels, none are in Hilton proper, but Inverness city centre is just a short drive (5–10 minutes); familiar names like Premier Inn, Holiday Inn Express or local guesthouses are available. Late-night options: Stagecoach buses run back from Inverness until about 11pm, but after that Inverness taxis (Uber or local cab) serve Hilton – just note that phone signal is usually fine in Hilton but may be patchy inside the hall.
What Makes This Venue Special
What sets Hilton Community Centre apart is its genuine community spirit and history in the area. It’s one of Inverness’s few centres run jointly by the Highland Council (via High Life Highland) and local volunteers, (www.highlifehighland.com ) (www.highland.gov.uk ) and that local ownership shows. People of all ages use it: grandparents, parents, teens and kids alike. Community leaders often call it a “lifeline” – for example, in 2019 over 1,300 residents signed a petition to save its on-site café when its future was threatened (www.inverness-courier.co.uk ). Councillors and charities stepped in to keep it open, underlining how important the building is to Hilton. Culturally, it hosts events that celebrate Highland life – be it ceilidh dancing nights, local history talks or craft fairs. It’s also unique in location; built near the site of the old Hilton poorhouse (later a hospital), the modern centre now anchors a neighbourhood rich in Gaelic heritage. The physical space itself may not be flashy, but local performers and educators love it for that very reason – it’s flexible and unpretentious. Amateur bands, dance troupes and even touring speakers often prefer Hilton Centre because the audiences come to chat and mingle rather than just pass by. In sum, this centre matters because Hilton residents *own* it: its survival has depended on community will just as much as Council support.
Visitor Tips and Information
The following tips can help you get the best visit to Hilton Community Centre. Firstly, the centre is wheelchair-accessible throughout (level flooring, ramp or lift entry and an accessible toilet) (www.disabilityscot.org.uk ). An induction loop is installed in meeting rooms for hearing aid users. You’ll want to arrive a bit early – at least 10–15 minutes before a booked class or event – so you have time to park, register and find your room. Dresses and jackets go on hooks, so wear whatever is comfortable: sportswear for gym events, casual for classes. For sports or active sessions, indoor gym shoes are required (to protect the court floor) – trainers are fine, but bring a change of shoes. As a courtesy, follow any rules posted (for example, remove muddy shoes) and do not smoke anywhere inside (smoking is only allowed well outside). Bringing snacks is fine – you can also buy refreshments in the café. If attending late-evening sessions, remember public buses stop around 11pm, so a taxi may be needed afterward. Always double-check any COVID or health rules (if still relevant) on the day: the centre will have sanitizer stations and ventilation but typically no temperature checks. If you have younger children, note that under-5s must be supervised at all times and the foyer can get busy at class-change times. Finally, staff are very helpful – if in doubt, just ask the staff at reception any question (they can even show parents emergency exits or where baby-changing stations are, for example). Following these pointers will make your time at Hilton Community Centre smooth and enjoyable (www.disabilityscot.org.uk ) (www.highland.gov.uk ).
What are the opening hours of Hilton Community Centre?
The centre is open Monday to Friday from 9:00 am until 10:00 pm, and Saturdays from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. It is closed on Sundays and public holidays. Check the High Life Highland website for any seasonal changes or special closures.
How can I book classes or events at Hilton Community Centre?
To book a class or event, you generally contact High Life Highland (the Highland Council leisure trust) or the centre’s reception. Many activities are drop-in, but for booked classes or holiday camps you can call the centre (see front desk) or sign up online via their site. If you want to hire a room, you fill out the official booking form with HLH. The friendly staff at Hilton can guide you to the right contact.
Are there ticket prices or membership fees?
Most community classes are very low-cost or free. Some sports sessions have small drop-in fees (often under £5) to cover hire costs. If you join a course (like adult education), those might have a set fee published by HLH. There is no paid “membership” needed for casual visits. Group bookings (room hire) have hourly charges which HLH can quote. In summary, expect minimal charges for special classes, and no general admissions fee.
Is parking available at Hilton Community Centre and is it free?
Yes. The centre provides a free car park on-site right next to the building. There are also marked disabled parking spaces. All parking is free to centre users (no meters or permits needed). If the car park is full, limited street parking on MacKay Road may be available. Remember to park considerately, as other community areas (park, clinic) share the space.
Which buses stop near the Hilton Community Centre?
Several Stagecoach Highland bus routes go past Hilton Village. The main one is the 5 (Queensgate–Raigmore), which stops at “Old Hilton Hospital” or “Hilton – Mackay Road” on Old Town Road, just opposite the centre. Variants like 5A/5B/5C also serve Hilton. These stop within a 2-minute walk. Check the latest timetables for up-to-date schedules.
What is the best way to get to the centre by public transport?
If coming by bus, catch the Stagecoach 5 (or 5A/B/C) toward Queensgate and alight at Hilton (Old Town Rd stops). For example, from Inverness city centre you can get a direct ride. If arriving by train at Inverness Station, the next best step is to take a taxi or a connecting bus (route 5 from Queensgate). Taxis and ride-shares are easy to book in Inverness and can drop you right at the centre’s entrance.
Are there fixed seats or assigned seating in the hall?
No – the games hall has an open floor plan with no permanent seating. Chairs or benches are brought in as needed for events. So there is no seating map. For meetings in smaller rooms, regular chairs are already arranged (as in conference style). In either case, you can usually sit anywhere; if it’s a large public event the organisers may place rows of chairs in the hall. There are also small bleacher benches along one wall of the gym that are sometimes put to use.
Is the centre wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Hilton Community Centre is designed for accessibility. There is level or ramped access at the entrance, and a standard lift takes you up to the main foyer leveled with all activity rooms (www.disabilityscot.org.uk ). Inside, doorways and paths are wide, and there is a disabled access toilet. An induction loop is installed for hearing aid users in at least one meeting room (www.disabilityscot.org.uk ). If you have special mobility needs, the staff can assist on arrival (e.g. dropping you at the door).
Does Hilton Community Centre have a café or food outlets?
Yes. The community café inside the centre serves hot drinks, pastries and snacks on weekdays (generally 10am–4pm) (www.highland.gov.uk ). They offer things like coffee, tea, cakes and sandwiches at reasonable prices. It also provides a social space to relax before or after events. There are no full-service restaurants inside the building, so if you want a meal (especially in the evening) you’ll find only take-aways and pubs nearby in the village.
Can I bring my own food or drink into the centre?
You can bring bottled water or small snacks for personal consumption, but outside catering is generally discouraged. For safety and cleanliness, hot food is preferred to come from the café only. Importantly, no external alcohol is allowed anywhere on site (standard UK licensing rules). The café covers most needs – but in a pinch, visitors will often have a quick takeaway before coming, as meals in the centre itself are limited to light refreshments.
Are children and families welcome at the centre?
Absolutely. This is a family-friendly facility. The Hilton centre runs youth clubs, toddler tots classes, children’s parties and other events specifically for kids and parents (www.highlifehighland.com ). You will often see children in the foyer or hall. Just remember that under-5s should be supervised at all times, and some classes may have age limits (e.g. “5+ only” sports). If you’re bringing kids, it’s a good idea to ask at reception which areas are recommended – for example, very young children are best kept in the foyer while parents attend a meeting or use the baby clinic rooms.
Are pets allowed inside Hilton Community Centre?
No, pets are not allowed inside. The only exception is registered assistance dogs (for disabilities) which are always permitted by law. Apart from that, please leave your pet at home or in the car (on a hot day, it’s safer not to leave pets unattended). The centre does not have facilities like water bowls or kennels for pets.
What items are not permitted at the community centre?
The venue follows normal community centre rules. In short: no smoking anywhere inside the building (and please smoke well outside, a distance from the door). Do not bring any flammable or hazardous items. Large suitcases or bulky bags are discouraged (no formal bag check is available). If you are attending a sports class, leave sports equipment (like balls) that isn’t issued by the club at home – equipment is normally provided. We also ask that you do not bring outside alcohol or arrange private gambling. Common-sense rules (like no running in halls outside sports, and respecting posted signs) apply.
Can I take photos or videos inside the centre?
Casual photos are usually fine (for personal use only), but always ask first. Children often attend, so by courtesy and data rules you should not use flash or disturb ongoing activities. Video recording your own group’s practice or celebration is allowed if you have permission from any instructors involved. However, for public events (e.g. plays or concerts), photography or filming may be restricted by the organisers – if in doubt, check with the event promoter or centre staff.
Is there Wi-Fi available at Hilton Community Centre?
Yes. Free Wi-Fi is available for visitors throughout the centre. Meeting rooms and the foyer have a wireless network you can join (ask the staff for the password). This is useful if you need to look up information or email during a class. Keep in mind that coverage may be weakest deep inside the large sports hall itself, but overall connectivity is good.
What is the capacity of the sports hall and meeting rooms?
Capacity varies by setup. The main games hall can hold roughly 100–150 people standing or a similar number seated if rows of chairs are added. It’s big enough for three badminton games at once. The “Dougie’s Den” meeting room fits 12–14 around a table (www.highlifehighland.com ). Other adjacent meeting rooms each accommodate about 10–20 people. For any event over 100 people, the hall is used; for workshops under 20, one of the smaller rooms is used. Always confirm with staff: they’ll advise based on your specific event needs.
Who manages and owns Hilton Community Centre?
The centre is owned by The Highland Council but managed on a day-to-day basis by High Life Highland (a charitable trust run by the council). Local community members sit on its management committee, giving residents a say. In short: it’s publicly owned but operated with heavy community input, which is why local people take pride in it (www.highlifehighland.com ) (www.highland.gov.uk ).
Can I host a private event or party at Hilton Community Centre?
Yes, many community members hire the halls for birthdays, etc. You can book the games hall for a family celebration or one of the meeting rooms for a club function. Room hire rates (per hour) are modest, but you should book well in advance via the centre’s booking system. Note there is no on-site catering service for private events (aside from the public café hours), so you would arrange your own food/beverage. Also, remember the centre’s rules (e.g. no outside alcohol, no smoking) still apply during private parties.
