First Minister opens new Shinty's Story - Sgeul na Camanachd Exhibition
The Camanachd Association is proud to announce the official opening of Shinty’s Story – Sgeul na Camanachd, a landmark permanent exhibition celebrating Scotland’s community sport. The space was formally opened on Saturday by First Minister John Swinney and Camanachd Association President Burton Morrison, marking a historic moment in the preservation and promotion of shinty’s cultural legacy.
Developed in partnership with acclaimed exhibition designers Lateral North, the bilingual space explores four key themes that define the sport: Origins, Community, Competition and Future. Through rare artefacts, immersive digital displays and powerful accounts from players past and present, the exhibition captures both the ancient roots and ongoing evolution of shinty across Scotland and beyond.
The project was made possible thanks to £544,000 in funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Fiona McLean, Committee Member for Scotland at NLHF, attended the opening ceremony.
First Minister
John Swinney
“The Shinty’s Story - Sgeul na Camanachd exhibition is a masterpiece that sets out the fabled story of the game of shinty. From the early days when it was used as a way to train warriors, to spirited community rivalries today, shinty has had a significant impact on Scotland, particularly in the Highlands. I would encourage visitors near and far to come and experience this excellent exhibition and learn the storied history of the game.”
Camanachd Association President
Burton Morrison
“Shinty’s Story – Sgeul na Camanachd is a proud moment for everyone involved in the sport. It captures the history, spirit and community that make shinty so special, and it shows how the game continues to evolve while staying true to its roots. This space honours the generations who have carried the caman and shared the heart of our game and also inspires the next generation to keep that tradition alive. I am delighted that visitors will now have a place to explore and celebrate our shared heritage.”
National Lottery Heritage Fund
Caroline Clark
"Heritage sits at the heart of a place’s identity, adding depth, character and value. It helps connect people and communities to a place and boosts local economic prosperity.
“Shinty is a central, and unique, element of Scottish heritage and of Highland identity. Thanks to National Lottery players this exhibition now brings together stories of the sport, the people and the places in a permanent home. A celebration of Shinty and a new destination for fans of sport and anyone with an interest in Scottish heritage"
Located at Bught Park, Inverness – in the new Highland Council owned Bught Park pavilion – the exhibition is free of charge and open to the public Friday to Tuesday, 10am–4pm.
The exhibition is fully bilingual in English and Scottish Gaelic, reflecting the language and culture that have shaped shinty’s story and remain central to its communities today.
Visitors are warmly encouraged to attend, whether they are lifelong supporters of the sport or discovering it for the first time. Although entry is free, donations are vital to ensuring the exhibition remains open for future generations. As a permanent space dedicated to one of Scotland’s most distinctive cultural traditions, ongoing community support will be essential.
The Camanachd Association is also issuing a call for volunteers to help run and develop the exhibition. Project Manager Aarron Duncan-MacLeod said:
“If you are passionate about Scottish heritage and want to be part of keeping shinty’s story alive, we would love to hear from you. Please contact iain.hunter@shinty.com”.
