PICTURES: Summer fun in Inverness shopping centre is antidote to dismal weather

The summer may be proving to be something a washout so far.

But that has not stopped families having fun at an indoor beach in Inverness.

The Eastgate Shopping Centre is giving youngters the chance to build sandcastles and play games as part of a programme of free activities being through the holidays.

The latest activities included karate while forthcoming events feature a Hawaiian Beach Party.

Indoor beach in Eastgate Shopping Centre in Inverness proving a big hit

Sound of music set to fill Eastgate Shopping Centre

The programme, which runs until September 2, features the return of the Nevis Kids Club which promises to provide fun, creative and learning opportunities every Tuesday and Wednesday.

Shopping centre manager Chris Kershaw said: “The Nevis Club in the Eastgate has continued well into the second week of holidays with karate and crafting which were both very well attended and offered some indoor fun while the weather has been poor.

“The activities continue throughout the summer with much more to come.”

The Beach at Eastgate is located on the ground floor of the Falcon Gallery and will be open daily until September 2 between 10am and 5pm.

Upcoming activities include:

TFX Theatre School – Tuesday, 16 July, 11 am – 3 pm. Enjoy fun at the Teen Beach Party!

Hawaiian Beach Party – Wednesday, 17 July, 11 am – 3 pm. Learn to limbo and hula with prizes to win. With Fitkidz.

TFX Theatre School – Tuesday, 23 July, 11 am – 3 pm. Dance and sing to High School Musical tunes.

Pirate Hideout – Wednesday, 24 July, 11 am – 3 pm. Craft treasure maps, hats and eyepatches. Fitkidz.

Surprise Sessions – Tuesday, 30 July, 11 am – 3 pm. Enjoy surprise activities with FitKidz.

Sea Creatures – Wednesday, 31 July, 11 am – 3 pm. Discover sea creatures and their shells. Fitkidz.

Sand Art Workshops – Tuesday, 6 August, 11 am – 3 pm. Create sand art pieces with FunkyDory.

Tropical Beach Party – Wednesday, 7 August, 11 am – 3 pm. Make and enjoy fruit kebabs and smoothies. Fitkidz.

August 13 and 14 – to be confirmed.

All sessions are free and last about 30 minutes, and operate on a first-come, first-served basis. No booking is necessary, but children must be accompanied by an adult.

Children also eat free at Loch & Larder with each adult main meal bought until September 2.

For more information, visit the Eastgate Shopping Centre or follow it on social media.

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