Northern Constabulary Community Pipe Band were delighted to accept an invitation to play at today’s “Birthday Party” at Ach an Eas Care Home, in Island Band road, Inverness. The Birthday Party consisted of a Fete to commemorate 65 years since Ach an Eas (“Field of the Waterfall”) became a Care Home. It is now the only public sector-run such Home in the Inverness area and recently moved to NHS control due to realignment of Health Care responsibilities between NHS Highland and Highland Council. The Home Manager, Julie MacLean, asked us to come along and entertain for the Fete today (22nd August) – and we were delighted to do so. Although asked at fairly short notice we were able to muster a fair-sized band of 9 pipers and 3 drummers, and this despite a number of other players having to call off at short notice. The Fete was organised by the staff in conjunction with the “Friends of Ach an Eas”, in order to raise funds for Residents Comforts – what a lovely way to mark the anniversary. The Band tuned up in the lovely front garden of the home (attracting much interest from passing tourists) and then marched on to the rear lawn to entertain residents and visitors alike, and although the sky was overcast the air was warm and balmy. We played for a while to welcome the attendees, and then stopped to allow the Home Manager to introduce Mrs Maureen Maxwell, of the “Friends of Ach an Eas” who made a brief speech to officially declare the event open - and to thank that everyone for their support and efforts. Thereafter the Band played a couple more sets before retreating into the Big Hoose for some refreshment (non-alcoholic) as it was definitely warm out there. After our break we were suitably revitalised and played several more sets which were greatly enjoyed by the audience, before we had to head off due to other (domestic) commitments of the players. It was great to be associated with such a momentous event, and the warmth of welcome from the audience was particularly appreciated by the players (as was the delicious food provided – we’ll be back!!). The building now known as "Ach an Eas" was constructed c.1865 to the design of Alexander Ross, who having designed an adjacent house "Riverdale” clearly fancied the area, so had a house built for himself – calling it "Riverfield". It only changed its name to “Ach an Eas” after the Ross family disposed of it just before World War 2. Provost Alex Ross (1834-1925) was Inverness’s most famous, and most productive, architect, designing many thousands of structures around the Highlands including Inverness Cathedral , the Central School, the Collegiate School (later called the “County Buildings”), the Royal Academy (MIdmills), the whole of Queensgate and Union Street, the Palace and Columba hotels, and almost all of the Ardross Terrace/Street area - plus umpteen schools and churches (of every denomination) around the Highlands. After use during World War 2 as Area HQ of the ATS (Auxiliary Territorial Service – women’s branch of the British Army), "Ach-an Eas” was acquired by the local Council and turned into a care home in 1950. Sixty five years on the Home is still going strong, thanks to its dedicated staff under Julie MacLean, and the Friends of Ach an Eas.

Ken's House of Pancakes

Day 6 Dinner Big Island, USA Time: Evening
Photo by Dave Conner from Inverness, Scotland on Wikimedia Commons

Overview

A local institution serving classic comfort food and breakfast all day.

Summary

A beloved local spot on the Big Island known for its comforting, classic American fare and all-day breakfast.

What You’ll Do

  • Enjoy a wide variety of breakfast dishes served all day.
  • Try their classic comfort food options.
  • Experience a taste of local Big Island culture.

Tips

  • Expect a casual, bustling atmosphere.
  • Portions are generally generous.

What To Book / Check

  • Verify current operating hours.
  • Check for any daily specials.

Item Photo Queries

Ken's House of Pancakes Hilo USA

Detail Photo Queries

Ken's House of Pancakes interior Big Island comfort food Hilo diner breakfast Local Hawaiian restaurant