Incorporating Scottish culture into your business event

Scottish culture and traditional events

If you’re holding a conference, trade show or exhibition with us, here’s how you can add a touch of Scottish culture and tradition to the proceedings…

Our Scottish event venue

Choosing the Kingsmills Hotel for your venue is the perfect start. Located in Inverness, the magnificent Scottish Highlands is on our doorstep. As the largest residential event space in the city, we can accommodate up to 500 delegates across seven versatile meeting and event rooms. Our flexible spaces cater to events of all sizes and styles, from corporate meetings and conferences to banquets. Dedicated breakout areas provide opportunities for networking and collaboration, while integrated audio-visual equipment ensures seamless presentations. On-site accommodation offers convenience for multi-day events, with complimentary car parking. Whether you’re planning a large-scale conference or a smaller work gathering, our venue provides a professional and well-equipped setting to meet your needs.

Adams Room Dinner Setting on one oval table
Our Adams Room makes the perfect setting for a Scottish banquet

Scottish-themed branding

Give your event a Scottish touch from traditional accents to striking décor. Whether you prefer subtle motifs or a fully immersive experience, we’re here to bring your ideas to life. Working with our contacts in the event styling and theming industry, we’ll ensure your event captures the spirit of Scotland. If you need inspiration, share your thoughts with us. Let us help you design an unforgettable Scottish-themed event tailored to your style and needs.

Authentic cuisine

We’ll collaborate with you to design a bespoke menu tailored to your event, whether it’s an informal buffet or an elegant multi-course tasting experience. To bring an authentic Scottish touch, we can incorporate traditional dishes such as haggis, neeps and tatties, Scotch broth and smoked salmon. Then complement your meal with a carefully curated drinks selection. You could include a whisky tasting featuring some of Scotland’s finest single malts or a range of craft Scottish gins. Whatever your vision, our team will ensure the menu is perfectly suited to your event.

Whisky Flights at the Kingsmills Hotel in Inverness
Enjoy a whisky flight at the Kingsmills Hotel bar

Traditional dress code

A well-chosen dress code can elevate your event to the next level. For a bit of fun, encourage guests to add a touch of tartan to their outfits. Or if your event is black-tie, consider embracing Scottish formal wear, including kilts. To make it easy for guests, we can recommend trusted local kilt hire services.

Hire a Highland piper

The sound of bagpipes is unmistakably Scottish. You could a hire piper in full Highland dress to welcome guests at the entrance or perform during a drinks reception. Their stirring music sets the tone for a truly authentic Scottish experience. If you’re looking to incorporate this tradition into your event, we can connect you with a talented local piper.

Piper at Kingsmills Hotel
A Highland Piper welcomes guests to the Kingsmills Hotel in Inverness

Talks and readings

You could include Scottish readings, stories and poems into the event. Scotland’s rich literary heritage offers a wide range of works suitable for various themes. From the iconic poems of Robert Burns to the storytelling of Sir Walter Scott or the modern works of authors like Jackie Kay, there’s something for every occasion. These literary pieces not only celebrate Scottish culture but also provide an educational and entertaining element.

Hold a ceilidh

For an engaging and lively evening, we suggest adding ceilidh dancing to your event. This traditional Scottish group dance, set to vibrant folk music, is a fantastic way to get guests involved. A professional caller will guide everyone through the steps, making it easy for beginners to participate. It creates a fun, energetic atmosphere and encourages social interaction between guests. Ask us for recommendations of local ceilidh bands.

Close up of woman playing the violin
Enjoy traditional Scottish ceilidh music and dancing

Contact us today to start planning your event at the Kingsmills Hotel. We’ll work with you to create a memorable experience for your guests, incorporating unique touches that will make you stand out.