INVERNESS

As we approach Inverness, we reach the northeast end of the Caledonian Canal, at Clachnaharry, where it joins the Moray Firth.

The Far North line crosses the canal nearby, with the swing bridge controlled from this signal box.

There's a great little pub around the corner, the Clachnaharry Inn.

We now take the towpath towards the centre of Inverness. The steamship 'Gondolier' negotiates the lock here.

Here's a more modern view of the lock.

It would seem that the Caley Inn, by the lock, has been dispached to history.

The castle at Inverness looks down upon the city centre and River Ness.

Looking upstream in 1999.

In the city centre, Station Square.

Inside the station in Highland Railway times.

Around the corner was the loco shed, of the semi-roundhouse type.

Now it's 1927, in the adjacent yards.

Now we're back at the station, with a Swindon built DMU.

Rose Street signal box,, seen from the Far North platforms, with 08620.

26036 awaits departure in 1980.

The weather is a bit better for 40173.

Scotrail mainly offers class 158 DMUs for its services.

Highland Omnibuses had a depot somewhere hidden behind the railway.

This unique 'Homalloy' fronted Leyland PD3 was based in Inverness and is seen at the bus station.

Here are a few more Highland buses in Inverness.

Stagecoach run most of the buses today.

An independent, D&E Coaches, runs a few services.

There's time for a few pints. First stop, the Wetherspoons, the King's Highway.

No 27 is worth a visit, with four handpumps.

Not to be missed, the Phoenix.

It appears that the Blackfriars no longer has real ale.

I've left one of the best until last, the Castle Tavern.

That's your lot for Inverness, the next post will see us in more remote parts.