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• Isle of Skye
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• North Coast 500
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• Outlander Tours
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• from Inverness
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We’ll share yesterday’s stories today, to make memories for your tomorrows!

Yesterday’s stories today.

Experience tours seeing Scottish mountain peaks against the sky and waterfalls plunging into spray-filled depths; hearing of myths and legends, heroes and villains, ghosts and ghouls; visiting Harry Potter and Outlander sites, Inverness whisky bars and the Edinburgh Tattoo! All of these have the same thing in common – they are part of yesterday’s many stories, which can be retold by us for you, today. 

Memories for your tomorrows 

Inverness Tour Guides enjoy taking unique journeys with you. Choose one of the many tours we have made for you here, or ask us for something custom. Either way we can guarantee that every tour is individually shaped by the questions you ask, as we travel together. From the first hello we will craft days just for you, where you can create the best lifelong memories.  

Why Inverness Tours

Local knowledge.

Inverness Tours has been taking visitors on world-class tours for more than fifteen years. We have been working to make our exclusive tour business the finest of its kind available in Scotland. Our solid (but constantly updated) knowledge is a tool for your use. As a result, you will enjoy the best eating places, the most rewarding visits, and the locals’ choice of “off the beaten track” walks and vistas. We strive to enthral, excite and entertain as we show you the real Scotland. 

Inverness Tour Guides

Our Inverness Tour Guides are a hand-picked team. As well as being accredited members of the Highlands of Scotland Tour Guide Association, they are all well-recognised as being at the top of their fields. We chose them because they are great storytellers, fun to be with, and uniquely qualified to do what they do well. We know you deserve the best team of guides available. See their individual profiles here

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We have a fabulous back-catalogue of reviews. Over 98% of our hundreds of TripAdvisor reviews are five-star, so we have received their Certificate of Excellence every year, and a placement in their Hall of Fame!

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Inverness Travel Guide (including essential tips, itinerary & map)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: February 5, 2024

Our  Inverness Travel Guide  includes recommended places to visit and things to do, accommodation options, tips and more for the beautiful Highland city. Everything you need to plan your visit and essential reading for any visitor to Inverness!

Plan your visit to Inverness

The Scottish city of Inverness is the perfect base to explore the Highlands of Scotland. If you enjoy road trips the North Coast 500 is recognised as one of the most spectacularly scenic drives around the world.

Inverness is one of our recommended top 19 attractions, sights and landmarks to see in Scotland.

What you will find in this complete Inverness Travel Guide

Map of Inverness

When is the best time of year to visit inverness, how many days do you need in inverness, what is the best way to explore inverness, 🚆 by train from london, 🚗 by car (road trip option), ✈️ fly to inverness airport, attractions and things to do in inverness, attractions and things to do in scotland, inverness accommodation quick picks, inverness travel guide -tickets, tours & attractions, best day trips from inverness, best multi-day tours from inverness, best pubs, cafes and restaurants in inverness, books to read before visiting inverness, enjoy your visit to inverness.

Inverness travel guide – Visiting Inverness FAQ’s

The best time to visit Inverness is during the late spring and summer. These are the busy times of the year with warmer weather and long light days.

If you prefer to avoid crowds aim for September and October. The weather can still be good during these months and you will find better deals on accommodation.

Make sure to pack for the weather – layers are always recommended (and waterproofs too) whatever time of year you plan to visit.

If you are visiting in winter note that the weather can be particularly brutal with low temperatures, snow and of course short dark days the norm.

Read more about the best time to visit the UK in my detailed guide.

Inverness is a fantastic base from which to explore the Highlands. Catch the train to Thurso and Wick or to the Kyle of Lochalsh for Skye and the Hebrides. Alternatively, pick up a tour to the Isle of Skye from Inverness.

The North Coast 500 begins in Inverness and follows a circular route through some of Scotland’s most spectacular scenery. Plan to spend at least 5 days to make the most of this fantastic Scottish road trip .

• Inverness is a compact, walkable city easy to get around.
• There is a hop on hop off bus available as well as taxis and buses to get you around the city.
• Hire a car from Inverness train station or Inverness airport. Alternatively, there are taxis available to transfer into the city or you can book a private transfer here .

🚗 There are a multitude of car rental companies to choose from in the UK. We recommend comparing prices and deals Discover Cars  before making your booking.

What is the best way to travel to Inverness from London?

For timetables and tickets, we recommend the trainline .

We recommend booking the Caledonian Sleeper service to Inverness from London. Leave London in the evening and arrive in Inverness the following morning.

This is a fabulous trip and although not cheap it is the perfect way to travel between the 2 cities by train.

Alternatively, take the East Coast Mainline from London to Edinburgh. Once in Edinburgh, you have 2 options – read more in our guide to the top 10 scenic train journeys in the UK.

🔀 Distance from London : 715 km (444 miles)

🕐 Time taken by sleeper train: 11 ½ hours

📍 Leave from: London Euston (Caledonian Sleeper)

Tip – If this is your first time catching a train in the UK read our complete guide to UK train travel which includes all the information you need to know to make travelling around the UK by rail a relaxing and stress-free experience.

If you are taking a road trip around the UK and plan to include Inverness in your itinerary make sure you book hotels & accommodation well ahead of time especially if you are visiting during the busy summer months.

I recommend checking car hire options through  Rentalcars.com  who compare the prices from a number of companies to secure the best deal for you.

If you want to fly directly to Inverness from London Gatwick, Luton or Heathrow. We recommend checking skyscanner for flights,

Click here for transfers from Inverness airport

THINGS TO DO IN INVERNESS

BEST DAY TRIPS FROM INVERNESS

SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS TRAVEL GUIDE

19 PLACES TO VISIT IN SCOTLAND

SCOTTISH ISLANDS TRAVEL GUIDE

EDINBURGH TRAVEL GUIDE

NORTHUMBERLAND TRAVEL GUIDE

ISLE OF SKYE TRAVEL GUIDE

Accommodation in Inverness

There is a variety of accommodation options in Inverness to suit every budget. These are my choices of some of the best hotels in the city based on location and customer reviews.

Pentahotel Inverness

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Located 100 m from the city’s train and bus stations

Ness House B&B

Located in the centre of Inverness, Ness House has free WiFi and free private parking.

Wee Ness Lodge

Boasting a patio with river views, a garden and a terrace

➡️ Area and accommodation guide to Inverness

Find more special stays in my Accommodation Guide for Scotland.

This is our selection of the best tours and attractions available in Inverness .

Click here for more tickets, tours and attractions for Inverness

Best day & multi-day trips from Inverness

I have handpicked the best tours available from Inverness through Get Your Guide (we book most of our day tours and organised activities through Get Your Guide due to their great customer service and cancellation policy) and Viator (another tour company we have used during our travels).

You will find even more options to choose from in our guide to the best day trips and multi-day tours from Inverness.

There are so many fantastic places to eat in Inverness you are spoilt for choice. These are our top picks:

• MacGregors Bar – local and seasonal dishes
• Scotch and Rye – Gastropub with craft beers
• The Grumpy Chef – Best brunch in town
• The Mustard Seed – Beautiful food in a stunning setting
• Castle Tavern – Terraced beer garden with castle views
• Cafe 1 – locally sourced produce 

For more Scottish literary inspiration check out my selection of 25 of the best books to read before you visit Scotland.

This guide will provide inspiration plus practical information to help plan your visit to Inverness . You will find more inspiration and ideas to help plan your travels around Scotland in these travel guides:

Best castle hotels in Scotland

Aberdeen Travel Guide

St Andrews Travel Guide

Glasgow Travel Guide

Edinburgh Travel Guide

Things to do in Edinburgh

10 virtual tours of famous landmarks in the UK

Northumberland Travel Guide (including tips, itinerary + map)

Find more inspiration for your travels in my Scotland Travel Guide which includes information about what to see, where to stay, how to get around, travel tips, recommended reading and more to make the most of your trip.

Inverness in Scotland is known as the “Capital of the Highlands” and is one of the most popular destinations to visit while in the gorgeous country of Scotland. Featuring many attractions within the city centre and in the area that surrounds it, you’ll find that there are many things to do in Inverness.

Inverness has been steeped in history since its Pictish origins. It is filled with fascinating places to see and things to do and is one of the largest cities in Scotland. Thousands of tourists travel to Inverness every single year, drawn to this beautiful city upon the Firth of Moray and Beauty, all connected to the staggeringly large Loch Ness.

If you’re new to our beautiful country and are interested in getting to know the Highland Region, then there’s no better place to start than Inverness.

In This Post

Things to do in Inverness

Inverness is one of the best places to visit in Scotland and has many things to do that will make a holiday here well worth the trip! So if you’re travelling via Inverness Airport or just starting your road trip to explore the Nort Coast 500, we bet that there will be something in Inverness that will pique your interest.

Inverness is stocked full of beautiful and unique attractions. Whether you’re interested in discovering the highland region’s history at Clava Cairns, want to try Scottish dishes at an award-winning restaurant, or just aim to enjoy a calm day amidst might castles and botanic gardens, Inverness is the place for you!

There are so many activities and events are going on in Inverness that it’s difficult to discern what should be at the top of your to-do list while you’re here! See our guide for the top things to do in Inverness!

Inverness Castle

The mighty Inverness Castle sits next to the River Ness and is an outstanding sight to see while you’re visiting Inverness.

One highlight you’ll notice immediately is the beautiful red sandstone bricks that the Castle is made from, a unique feature that makes Inverness Castle one of the most spectacular castles in Scotland.

Built in the 1800s, the Castle boasts a fantastic view of the River Ness and Inverness city centre and a bountiful garden to explore when you visit its grounds. History buffs will be treated to the very Castle that William Shakespeare cites as where Duncan is murdered in ‘Macbeth’!

Inverness Castle is currently not open to the public but make sure to check out their website for updates.

Inverness Museum & Art Gallery

Inverness is jam-packed with exciting history and culture, and nowhere else can you fully realise this fact than at the Inverness Museum & Art Gallery.

Here you can learn about and explore a vast range of artefacts and exhibits covering every inch of the Highland’s heritage and way of living. You can also immerse yourself in the ever-rotating galleries that feature excellent pieces made by local favourite artists and craftspeople.

The Inverness Museum & Art Gallery is the best way to garner an unparalleled understanding of the city and the surrounding area – we highly recommend you attend!

St Andrew’s Inverness Cathedral

Inverness Cathedral, sometimes known as St Andrew’s Cathedral, is a stunning church building on the edge of the River Ness and is at the centre of Inverness’ religious sites.

St Andrew’s Cathedral is undoubtedly one of the most fantastic venues to visit. The interior is just as jaw-dropping as the staggering exterior, with your attention being automatically drawn to the stained glass windows and the Cathedral’s towers which almost reach the sky!

Even if you’re not interested in attending one of the weekly masses, this Cathedral is still one of the most popular attractions in Inverness.

Ness Islands

The Ness Islands are a slice of nature amidst the bustling city of Inverness, the perfect getaway if you want a bit of peace for an afternoon.

You can access the Ness Islands through a series of picturesque Victorian footbridges in multiples place from Inverness’ river banks. On Ness Islands, you can look forward to seeing towering pines, a host of small critter wildlife, quaint benches, and many more sights!

Keep a lookout for the fallen tree Nessie sculpture, a great reminder that this city sits ominously close to the mysterious Loch Ness.

Inverness Botanical Gardens

Just a hop, skip, and a jump away from many of the incredible attractions in Inverness are the Inverness Botanic Gardens, home to thousands of fantastic flora and one of the most popular destinations to visit while you’re in the royal burgh of Inverness.

Whatever season you’re visiting, the Botanic Gardens is always open and free to enter! Exploring the greenhouses and gardens is a delight to the senses, even more so when you cap off your visit by sampling the excellent lunch options available at the cafe – there’s even a cactus house!

Budding florists and plant parents will be sorely tempted to take home one of the darling buds from the nursery to take home with them!

The Victorian Market

Located in the heart of Inverness city centre, the Victorian Market is a covered market home to a plethora of shops, cafes, and services, with an incredible range of products and services available here. It’s one of the best places to try traditional Scottish dishes too!

A staple marketplace since the late 19th-century and now holds a fantastic amount of things to do here, including arcade gaming, shopping for souvenirs, or even grabbing a haircut! The market is open year-round, so whenever you plan to visit Inverness, the Victorian Market is sure to be available to you!

Stopping by the Victorian Market after a day of travelling through the city or the surrounding area is a must. There’s no better place to refresh and wind down!

Dolphin Spirit Inverness

As you approach the Moray Firth from the city centre of Inverness, hop aboard the Dolphin Spirit if you’re feeling adventurous!

This wildlife boat trip takes you aboard and then to the Moray Firth to see Inverness’s extraordinary sea life. You could see dolphins, whales, seals, and bird species, but the dolphins would are undoubtedly the stars of the show!

If you’re feeling lucky and want to see the best sea life that Inverness has to offer, then climb aboard the zooming Dolphin Spirit Inverness!

If you want a more relaxed destination and an option for your family or children to enjoy, then look no further than Whin Park in Inverness.

Whin Park has four separate adventure parks, including zip lines, climbing structures, slides, a boating pond, and many more brilliant attractions to ensure your children are entertained through and through!

Cap off the day with some ice cream, and your children will be begging you to come back here!

Craig Phadrig

Climb up Craig Phadrig, and you’ll find one of the best views of the city centre. Craig Phadrig is also one of the best ways to enjoy the impressive history of Inverness just south of the city.

Today, you can still make out the fortress once home to the mighty Pictish King in Scottish history. The oval-shaped mound is a dead giveaway, and it may be difficult to take your eyes off this fantastic site to check out the beautiful view of Inverness below.

Craig Phadrig is the perfect journey for an early morning walk before tackling the Highlands!

Urquhart Castle

The mighty Urquhart Castle is situated on the Great Glen a few miles south of Inverness. This attraction is located along the Loch Ness coast and has hidden secrets covering over 1000-years of Scotland’s most significant historical moments.

Urquhart Castle contains many unique attractions; the staggering Grant Tower, artefacts left behind like Urquhart Ewer, and a trebuchet! Accompanied by some of the best views of the Loch Ness in Scotland – what else could you ask for?

You can explore Urquhart Castle at your own pace or use the audio-guided tour that comes with the ticket. All you need is access to the internet!

Clava Cairns

As you head out to explore the eastward side of Inverness, make sure not to miss the Clava Cairns, a 4000-year old burial site!

The Clava Cairns are the only ancient sites around Inverness, so they should be on the top of your bucket list. You can explore what remains of Clava Cairns and its standing stones and envision what rituals and society built this prehistoric structure so many years ago.

The Cairns are also home to many other Bronze Age artefacts and sites for you to explore, from graves, cairns, and standing stones!

The Clava Cairns is set against the River Nairn, and the flowing water and mysterious atmosphere make for a beautiful picnic spot when the weather’s nice.

Cawdor Castle & Gardens

The magnificent Cawdor Castle & Gardens were built as a private fortress by the Thanes of Cawdor in the late 14th-century and is one of the most popular attractions to visit while in Inverness.

At the Castle’s very centre sits a legendary holly tree, said to have been a part of the estate since 1372 AD! The Castle also holds an excellent cafe and shop that is the perfect place to grab lunch as you explore the immersive history of Cawdor.

After lunch at the cafe, it’s worth your while to explore the stunning Castle Gardens, home to unique flora and wildlife, especially the birdlife that makes its home at Cawdor Castle & Gardens.

St Mary’s Roman Catholic Church

Your first look at St Mary’s Roman Catholic Church is jaw-dropping and is undoubtedly one of the most eye-catching churches of the historic buildings that line the River Ness.

The Church welcomes visitors from all over the world to its wonderfully decorated interior. The Church is built in the Victorian Gothic Revival style of architecture, which boasts a stunning resemblance to some of the grandest Medevil buildings.

The spectacular design and atmosphere of this Church will undoubtedly draw you in and is well worth a visit.

Inverness Ice Centre

Keen to pick up a new skill while on holiday at Inverness? The Inverness Ice Centre is the best place to learn how to ice skate or the basics of sports like curling and ice hockey!

If you’re already a recreational skater, the Ice Centre will be happy to let you strut your stuff and let loose on its immaculate ice rink arena! It’s a great place to take the family and children too, and you can spend a whole afternoon messing around on the ice as you explore new skills.

Best of all? The first lesson is free at the Inverness Ice Centre, so you have no reason not to try something new!

Inverness Highland Games

If you find yourself lucky enough to be visiting Inverness during the summer month of July, then the Inverness Highland Games should be at the top of your list of things to do!

These traditional games started in 1822 and have some classic Scottish games to look forward to. You can look forward to piping competitions, Highland dancing, live music, stonemason’s stone, and many more! Finding out who is the strongest man and woman is a particularly thrilling event that you can’t miss.

The Highland Games are a Scottish spectacle that has been a part of the Scottish Highlands region for centuries. It’s worth it to plan your trip around accommodating this exciting tradition.

Inverness Library

Inverness Library has a vibrant and fascinating history, and we’re not just talking about the expansive collection of books and archives the Library holds!

This Library was initially built as a school in 1841 before transitioning to a courthouse, police station, and then a theatre before finally becoming the Library in 1980! This tumultuous history is core to the building’s style and design, making it one of the unique attractions you can visit while in the city.

An extensive collection of books within its stunning architecture makes for an excellent afternoon of reading and relaxation if you want some quiet.

Chanonry Point

Chanonry Point is about a half-hour drive away from Inverness that treats you to stunning visuals of the Firths Moray and Beauty along the way! The Point overlooks the Firth and is well-known for the dolphins that can frequently be seen from its high vantage point.

The Point also features a beautiful beach, a romantic evening hotspot for those who want a bit of personal time with loved ones away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Explore the Moray Firth

The Moray Firth is a sea loch that you can find just north of Inverness and is host to numerous amounts of things to do!

The most prominent feature of this Firth is the regular occurrence of pods of bottlenose dolphins that make their home here! This, coupled with seals and the occasional Minke Whale, makes any boat trips you have along this Firth one of the most spectacular voyages you can have while visiting Inverness.

The Firth also holds many fascinating attractions along its shores, like the gorgeous Culbin Forest, Chanonry Point, and Fort George. We haven’t even spoken about the romantic walks you can take along its beaches!

Visit Loch Ness

Your mind will eventually wander to the Loch Ness and Nessie, the Loch Ness Monster, when you think of Scotland. While in Inverness, you have the chance to take a trip down to this infamous tourist attraction and see if the legends hold up for you!

Loch Ness is the largest freshwater loch in Scotland and has significant sights for you to see as you tour around its edge. Braver visitors may even be tempted to hop aboard a ship and explore the waters of the loch, excited for a chance to see the ever-elusive Loch Ness Monster.

Loch Ness is also revered for the beautiful vistas, rolling hills, and the fact that there are stunning castles and historical sites dotted all around it. So even if Nessie eludes you when you visit, we’re sure you won’t leave disappointed.

Inverness Kart Raceway

Experience the Highland’s #1 Indoor Racing Kart Centre while you’re in Inverness, and you’ll never want to race go-karts anywhere else!

Fulfil your need for speed at this excellent kart racing venue, perfect for the family and birthday parties and corporate events and stag and hen dos too! Inject some thrill into your holiday while in Inverness and see if you can grab one of the top places on Kart Raceway’s leader boards.

Inverness Kart Raceway is undoubtedly one of the most fun and exciting activities you can get up to as you wander through Inverness, so adding it to your to-do list is a must!

Flora MacDonald Statue

Standing in front of the Inverness Castle is one of the most detailed and intricate statues in Scotland depicting the famous Flora MacDonald.

Forever encased in bronze, this famous historical figure who helped Charles Edward Stuart escape is a marvel to look upon. Located conveniently near the Inverness Castle, you can take a several minutes’ walk and stumble upon her overlooking the city of Inverness.

Visit the statue at night, and the twinkling lights of the city centre are one of the most pretty ways to enjoy Inverness, with the Great Glen and Inverness Cathedral visible on clear days.

Explore Inverness City Centre

The city of Inverness is known as the Capital of the Highlands, and as you explore the winding cobbled streets and alleys, it’s easy to see why. From the high street to the city’s parks, you won’t be lacking in things to do in Inverness while you’re here.

Wander through the town, and you’ll find an excellent selection of cafes, shops, and restaurants to shop ’til you drop by and bring home a couple of souvenirs while you’re at it! You can use the affordable bus station terminals for accessible public transport between hotspots as you navigate the city.

As the sun sets, the city comes alive with nightlife and walking through the high street. It’s not uncommon to hear live music and an amicable atmosphere that begs you to mingle with the locals.

Merkinch Local Nature Reserve

One of the many hidden gems of Inverness is the Merkinch Local Nature Reserve, home to many incredible wildlife species like roe deer, weasels, and a wide range of bird species!

The Nature Reserve can take anywhere from an hour to two hours, depending on how quick you go through it but to fully enjoy the reserve, make sure to stop and sit for a bit. The friendly bird species may even take a liking to you and come closer – perfect for pictures!

This Nature Reserve is a fantastic destination for nature lovers and grants you a look at the wildlife of Scotland without having to leave the city!

Kessock Bridge

As you explore Inverness, one attraction will undoubtedly catch your eye again and again – The Kessock Bridge, an example of one of Scotland’s most beautiful suspension bridges.

The Kessock Bridge extends over the Firths of Beauty and Moray and is the best way to travel into the north Scottish Highlands from the town centre. The Bridge itself is a spectacular feat of architecture and design and grants stunning views of the two Firths and the city of Inverness.

You’ll likely cross over the Kessock Bridge as you explore the many attractions around Inverness, but make sure to give some appreciation to this magnificent structure.

Enjoy Bught  Park

Bught Park in the town of Inverness has stunning views of the River Ness as it flows through to the Firth of Moray.

Home to excellent pitches regularly filled with Inverness locals playing football or rugby, the Bught Park in Inverness is the go-to Park when you wind down your busy day exploring Inverness.

And if you’re looking to bring your pup along with you during your holiday, this Park will undoubtedly be their favourite attraction!

Culloden Battlefield Visitor Centre

As you head westwards from the town centre of Inverness, make sure to stop by the Culloden Battlefield – the site of the last and most harrowing pitch battle in Scotland.

This fascinating historical site is maintained by the National Trust for Scotland and has an incredibly informative visitor centre that aims to recount the details of this Jacobite rebellion. Compete with interactive exhibits, an immersive sound experience, and even preserved artefacts from the battle!

Just nearby, you can also find the Clava Cairns, a collection of Bronze Age historical sites. Having both of these attractions is necessary for a full day of activities.

Taking an afternoon to visit the pinnacle attraction of Culloden Battlefield is undoubtedly one of the top things to do in Inverness, so make sure to add it to your bucket list next time you visit.

Fort George

One of the most awe-inspiring fortresses in Scotland is Fort George, sitting overlooking the waters for over 250 years!

Today, you can take a trip straight into the Fort’s centre and explore this extraordinary compound used by King George’s army. Some of its top hotspots are the Highlander Museum, the Dog Graveyard, and the Grand Magazine.

Peruse combat memorabilia and learn about soldiers’ lives over 200 years ago. We’re sure that you won’t have an experience quite like this while visiting Scotland anywhere else.

Leakey’s Bookshop

Leakey’s Second-Hand Bookshop is one attraction you don’t want to miss out on while exploring Church Street in Inverness.

Its interior is eccentric and extraordinary, filled with a mishmash of purples, blues, and greens – and of course, lots of books! Leakey’s is Scotland’s second largest second-hand bookshop and contains over 100,000 volumes to browse through. The bookshop has a warm and comforting atmosphere, partly given by the roaring fireplace that keeps Leakey’s nice and toasty!

Why not pick up or leave a copy of your favourite book at Leakey’s? We bet that it will be one of the highlights of your holiday.

Eden Court Theatre & Cinema

Do yourself a favour and grab a ticket to a show at the Eden Court Theatre & Cinema; it’s one of the most entertaining things you can do while in Inverness.

From Opera to comedy, this Court Theatre is adept at providing you with shows that will be the highlight of your evening! We especially recommend the Theatre’s live performances, as the atmosphere and immersion you receive from being within the stunning Theatre is unparalleled.

And if you’re looking for light snacks, the Court Theatre’s cafe and restaurant serve up a bounty of great food and drinks to enjoy an interlude between shows.

Tomatin Distillery Visitor Centre

Tomatin Highland Single Malt Whisky is one experience you should certainly treat yourself to while visiting Inverness. Although it’s a little out of your way, taking just over 25-minutes to reach, it’s one of the best whisky distilleries in the Scottish Highlands.

You can receive one of the guided tours from one of the knowledgable and passionate distillery workers about the intricate and detailed process that creates their blend of excellent single malt whisky. Afterwards, you can sample one of the many tasting sessions that Tomatin Distillery offers and get a worldwide perception of whiskies.

We bet you’ll want to pick up one or two single malt whisky blends at the Tomatin whisky shop!

Caledonian Canal

The Caledonian Canal takes you along the 60-miles of the Loch Ness and the River Ness. You won’t receive more of a thorough look at the beauty of Scotland’s largest loch than a trip aboard one of the many boat trips.

Whether you’re looking to purchase a ticket and be gifted with a fantastic tour of the Loch Ness or take your boat aboard its waters, the long stretch of this loch in Scotland is one attraction that you won’t want to miss out on.

Highland House of Fraser

The Highland House of Fraser is one of the most well-known shops in Inverness, famous for its custom and high-quality traditional Scottish kilts.

This family business has been in operation for 50-years and is steeped in the tradition of creating the Highland Dress. We encourage you to come and visit and peruse the wide variety of beautiful Scottish kilts available here – It’ll be tough to pick just one to take home with you!

Other Things To Do in Highlands

• Things to do in Arisaig
• Things to do in Aviemore
• Things to do in Beauly
• Things to do in Brora
• Things to do in Caithness
• Things to do in Carrbridge
• Things to do in Drumnadrochit
• Things to do in Fort Augustus
• Things to do in Fort William
• Things to do in Gairloch
• Things to do in Invergordon
• Things to do in Kingussie
• Things to do in Kyle of Lochalsh
• Things to do in Lochinver
• Things to do in Loch Ness
• Things to do in Nairn
• Things to do in Newtonmore
• Things to do in Strathpeffer
• Things to do in Thurso
• Things to do in Ullapool
• Things to do in Wick

Graham Grieve

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Happy Tours Scotland

Fun, friendly, expertly guided Private Tours leaving daily from Inverness.

Best Western Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa

4 Star Hotel & Spa-luxury pool, leisure club, Wifi & parking on the banks of the River Ness

Loch Ness Riding

Trail riding and training for experienced equestrians ONLY beside Loch Ness

Reelig Glen

Walk through an ancient woodland of beautiful tall trees.

Loch Ness Cruises

Experience the magic of Loch Ness!

On the road to Loch Ness, Inverness' only farm park with the Highlands first 'Jelly Belly'.

Inverness Museum and Art Gallery

Discover more about the unique history and culture of the city of Inverness.

Cruise Loch Ness

Cruise Loch Ness is a 5* tour company. We can’t wait to welcome you onboard

Dundreggan Rewilding Centre

Explore Scotland's wild forest and experience rewilding in action at Dundreggan.

Uilebheist Distillery & Brewery

Brand New brewery and distillery on the banks of the River Ness.

Inverness Castle

Inverness Castle will be opening as a new visitor attraction in 2025

Inverness Leisure

The largest sport and leisure facility in the Highlands.

Green Highlander

Learn to cast or just go fishing...

Dolphin Spirit

Choose between a large, comfortable fully accessible Cruiser or a faster Rib trip to travel through several dolphin hotspots in the hope of tracking down our beautiful dolphins with something for everyone.

Culligran Fishing

Culligran Estate has 5 miles of mostly double-bank fishing on the River Farrar, divided into 3 beats.

Inverness Golf Club

Located in the heart of the Highland capital, Inverness Golf Course is a splendid parkland course with tree lined fairways and generous well manicured greens

Bowhunter Archery Woodland Activities and Adventures

Outdoor Woodland Archery Adventures. 5 Fun Fantasy Target Zones, Fully Qualified Instructors.

Highland Archive Centre

Caring for, and giving access to, historic documents for local and family history research.

The Beastie Boats

Whether it's the mystery of Loch Ness or stunning scenery, we want you to get up close and personal.

Loch Ness Lodge Hotel

The Loch Ness Lodge Hotel is a privately owned 3 Star rated hotel situated in the picturesque village of Drumnadrochit, close to one of the most famous stretches of water in the world ‘Loch Ness’.

Cairngorms Activities

Welcome to Cairngorms Activities with a wide range of activities, accommodation and a licensed cafe.

Walking Tours in Inverness

Discover Scotland through a local's eyes on a guided walking tour!

Clava Cairns

Transport yourself back 4000 years in time by visiting the ancient Clava Cairns

Loch Ness by Jacobite

Loch Ness by Jacobite offer 5 star cruises on Loch Ness. 

Dores Beach and Torr Point Walk

A circular walk with superb views of Loch Ness.

Invermoriston community shop

A small friendly shop run by the community, for the community and visitors to the area

Boleskine House

Visit one of the most mysterious houses around Loch Ness.

At Urquhart’s Restaurant we take great pride in serving beautiful home cooked cuisine.

Dog Falls Brewing Co

Dog Falls is an award-winning nano brewery in the heart of the Highlands

Loch Ness Hub

A Visitor Information Centre, gift shop & booking office located in Drumandrochit, Loch Ness. 

Falls of Foyers

Be mesmerised by the beauty of this wonderful waterfall!

Fort George

Stand in awe of Fort George, one of the most outstanding fortifications in Europe.

Quilacridhe Tearoom at Drumbuie Farm B&B

Wee B&B,Tearoom, and gift shop over looking Loch Ness surrounded by our hairy highland coos

Urquhart Castle & Visitor Centre

Urquhart Castle situated on the shore of Loch Ness is one of Scotland’s largest castles.

Littlemill Trails

Explore the ridges and lochans left behind after the Ice Age.

IT Tours – Inverness Taxis

IT Tours is a sister company of the hugely popular Inverness Taxis, which has been operating in the Highlands for 60 years.

KFC is an American fast food restaurant chain that specialises in fried chicken.

Whitebridge Hotel

A traditional highland hotel & bar with quirky decor serving the best of Scottish produce.

Fort Augustus Golf Club

Fort Augustus lies near the banks of Loch Ness in the middle of the lovely Great Glen.

Premier Inn Riverness

From booking to bed, we're here to help you rest easy.

Plodda Falls

A spectacular waterfall amongst towering trees.

Culloden Battlefield and Visitor Centre

Visiting Culloden the last hand-to-hand battle fought on British soil takes on a whole new meaning with the opening of an exciting new visitor centre and interactive exhibition.

Vue Inverness is a 8 screen, 1,758-seater cinema situated just east of the city centre.

Go Quest Adventures

Turning Inverness Streets Into Adventure Playgrounds!

Dunrobin Castle

Dunrobin Castle and Gardens is just a mile North of the village of Golspie in East Sutherland.

Visit our informative and entertaining Loch Ness Presentation and discover the facts behind the mystery and legend of Loch Ness.

Ness Walk Hotel

Enjoy riverside views at this secluded 5 star hotel in the heart of the vibrant city of Inverness.

The Boat House Restaurant

Welcome to The Boathouse. In our first season under new, local management we’re happy to say the Boathouse is now the perfect place to come for a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere, good food, and a stunning setting.

Loch Ness Inn & Bunk Inn

The Loch Ness Inn, which is a small hotel and bunkhouse, is located in Drumnadrochit.

Abriachan Nurseries

Visit our uniquely beautiful woodland gardens by Loch Ness, with their fantastic mix of native and exotic plantings.

Inverness Custom Tours

Inverness Custom Tours (ICT) are a highly dedicated and enthusiastic team of Highland Tour Guides.

Highland Explorer Tours

Starting from the capital of the Highlands, our small group tours from Inverness get you straight out to the Highlands and the Isle of Skye.

Lovat Arms Hotel

Lovat Arms - Your home away from home...located in the heart of the magnificent Scottish Highlands.

Pizza Hut Inverness

What started out as a single Hut in Islington, London is now over 700 Restaurants and Delivery outlets up and down the UK, and guess what, the pizza is still the best in town.

Inverness Botanic Gardens and Cafe Botanics

An oasis of calm and beauty within walking distance of the bustling city centre.

City Sightseeing Inverness

City Sightseeing bus tours are the perfect way to see Inverness.

WOW Scotland

See Scotland with the people who know it best on our award-winning Skye tours from Inverness.

Singleton Glen Ord Distillery

A visit to Glen Ord Distillery is a delight to both the eye and the palate.

Gun Lodge Hotel & Cromal Hill Restaurant

A full A la Carte Menu offering a wide range of dining options is available in addition to our extremely popular bar food prepared by our catering team – all available in a relaxing atmosphere in our cosy restaurant.

Simpsons Garden Centre and restaurant

Much more than just a garden centre

Torrish Restaurant

Located on the leafy banks of the River Ness, Torrish brings a new era to fine dining in the city

Beauly Priory

Explore the ruined church of a little-known order of monks in a wooded, riverside location.

D&E Coaches

Award winning private hire coach and minibus operator, offering tours throughout the Highlands

Walk Inverness

Cath's Inverness Walking and Driving Tours

Abriachan Trails

Walking and biking trails for all the family.

Inverness Town House

Built in 1708

The Malt Room

INVERNESS' FIRST WHISKY BAR

Heathmount Hotel

Award-winning, independent, small, stylish and friendly, the Heathmount Hotel gives guests a real taste of Inverness.

Highland Cow Tours - Loch Ness Hub

The ultimate way to get up close and personal with a Highland Coo!

Dog Falls & Dog Falls Viewpoint

Explore the trails and waterfalls on the road to Glen Affric.

Spirit Journeys Worldwide

Spirit Journeys Ltd is a worldwide tour operator and also a DMC for inbound trips to UK and Ireland, based in Inverness, Scotland. We cover the whole of the UK and Ireland and Europe.

Ticket To Ride Bike Hire

Bike hire in Inverness for the Loch Ness 360 trail. Loch Ness is big and the Great Glen is deep.

Fiddler's Highland Restaurant

Fiddler’s is a warm, inviting restaurant offering traditional Scottish dishes such as Haggis, Venison and Salmon as well as more international items.

In Your Element

In Your Element offers a whole host of amazing outdoor activity experiences across Scotland.

The Clansman Centre

The Clansman Centre is open April to October, seven days a week, from 10am till 5.00pm, during summer months we do open in the evenings. Check out our Facebook page for opening times.

VisitScotland Inverness iCentre

Highland Capital’s official source for information on what to do and see in the Highlands.

Foyers House

Foyers House is a family run adult only guest house on Loch Ness in the Scottish Highlands  .

Culloden Woods

A woodland trail with hidden history.

Caledonian Canal Visitor Centre

The new Caledonian Canal Centre in Fort Augustus is a world-class visitor and destination hub.

Highland Cows - Culloden Battlefield Visitor Centre

Meet the coos who watch over the battlefield!

Inverfarigaig

Forest trails and beautiful views on the South Side of Loch Ness.

The Dores Inn

Set on the shore of Loch Ness, a family run restaurant and pub.

Coul House Hotel

Coul House is an country house hotel, located(20 minutes north of Inverness).

Loch Ness Alpacas

Unique alpaca experiences on the shores of Loch Ness.

Change House Viewpoint

A lovely picnic spot and walking trail with views of loch Ness and Urquhart Castle.

Highland Free Spirits

We are a small, family business specialising in exclusive cruises on Loch Ness and the Caledonian Canal and providing other bespoke tourism services.

Corrimony Chambered Cairn

An excavated passage grave of probable Bronze Age date, defined by a stone kerb and surrounded by a circle of 11 standing stones.

Highland Food and Drink Trail

Street food Inverness style!

The Loch Ness Centre

Explore the real stories of Loch Ness and its monster during a 1-hour immersive experience.

Eden Court Highlands

Live theatre, cinema, classes and cafe/bar by the riverside in Inverness.

The Inch Hotel

We pride ourselves on being one of the best Loch Ness hotels around and are situated only minutes away from the small village of Fort Augustus with its shops, pubs, restaurants and Loch Ness cruise hire boats, as well as the famous the Caledonian Canal.

Meall Fuar Mhonaidh

A walk exploring the highest hill on the shores of Loch Ness with fantastic views of the Great Glen.

Grant MacNicol Private Chef

Award winning private chef, Grant MacNicol.  

42Cycling: Saddle up for premier Highland cycling adventures!

Invercannich Farm - Alpaca Trekking

A unique experience set in the incredible Highland landscape!

Helen Stirling Maps

Freelance Cartography - Mapping and graphic design services.

Inverness Airport

Inverness Airport offers flights to and from destinations across the UK and Europe.

Dows Bar & Bistro

Family friendly and fun, Dows Bistro offers excellent, locally sourced food combined with premium spirits & beers, delicious wines and cheeky cocktails.

Fairways Golf Centre & Restaurant

Visitors and societies welcome 7 days a week.

Highland Cows - Loch Ness by Jacobite

See the cows before finding Nessie! 

The Angry Seagull Fish + Chips

Award winning Fish + Chips food truck in the Highlands

Highland Cows at Easter Dalziel Farm

We have Highland Coos on our working farm!

River House Restaurant

We hope you enjoy your dining experience with us.

Jurys Inn Inverness

Perfectly placed for visiting the ‘Capital of the Highlands’

Victorian Market

The historic market at the heart of the City centre.

Craig Phadrig

A walk to the site of an ancient Pictish fort with great views over the Beauly Firth.

Castle Tavern

The Castle Tavern is primarily a real pub that prides itself in its food and specialises in an extremely wide range of malts.

Downright Gabbler

An unforgettable combination of fantastic locally sourced food and drink and storytelling.  

The Cnoc Hotel

 Small family run Hotel in Strathfarrar, offering a very warm welcome! 

Glen Affric Circuit & viewpoint

Explore Scotland's most beautiful glen.

Invermoriston Bridge and Falls

Invermoriston’s Thomas Telford bridge crosses the spectacular River Moriston falls.

Cawdor Castle

A fairy-tale castle which you can touch and see and sense for yourself, Cawdor is a splendid house and home to the Dowager Countess Cawdor.

The Kitchen Brasserie

The Kitchen is housed in modern, glass building located on the banks of the River Ness.

Loch Ness Backpackers

The Backpackers Hostel is located in the village of Lewiston just a few minutes walk from Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle, a perfect location for activity or relaxation.

Inverness Ice Centre

Ice Skating, Curling, Ice Hockey - all available at different times of the year

Gift shop selling high quality locally made gifts and souvenirs.

Glen Moriston Arms Hotel

A stones throw from Loch Ness, a world away from your daily cares

Kings Golf Club Inverness

Kings Golf Club Inverness is a fantastic new 18 hole Championship golf course, designed by architect Stuart Rennie.

Tomatin Distillery

Award winning Highland single malt Scotch Whisky

Exclusively Highlands

Artisan art/craft, food/drink markets at Wildwoodz Inverness & Christmas markets at Eden Court.

Premier Inn Millburn Road

Ardersier to fort george coastal path.

A gentle walk along the beautiful Moray Firth coastline.

Cameron’s Tea Room

The Camerons Tea Room & Farm Shop at Glenlia Farm in the village of Foyers.

The Highlanders’ Museum

The Highlanders’ Museum is home to the largest number of military artefacts outside Edinburgh.

Divach Falls

A peaceful spot overlooking the impressive Divach Falls.

Rabbie’s Trail Burners

Join one of Rabbie’s and explore the best of the Scottish Highlands and Islands.

Loch Ness Drumnadrochit Hotel

The Hotel is the perfect base from which to tour the Loch Ness area and the Scottish Highlands.

Loch Ruthven RSPB

A peaceful loch where you can get close to nature and wildlife.

Highland Cows - Cameron's Tearooms

Visit the fold at Cameron's Tearoom!

Daviot Wood

A family friendly walking, running and cycling trail close to Inverness.

Allt Na Criche

Walk past lovely waterfalls up to the Great Glen Way for amazing Loch Ness views.

Loch Ness Shores Campsite and Glamping Pods

5* camp site situated on the shores of stunning Loch Ness.

Prime Steak & Seafood

A la Carte restaurant offering quality dishes from locally sourced ingredients. 

Inverness Cathedral

A monument of Gothic architecture, the most Northerly Anglican Cathedral in the UK.

Slaters Arms

Whether you are staying locally or just paying a short visit to the Glen Affric & Loch Ness area you will be more than welcome at the Slaters Arms country pub and restaurant.

Clachnaharry and Caledonian Canal Walk

Walk along the Caledonian Canal towpath to Clachnaharry, where the Canal meets the sea.

Loch Ness Gifts

Loch Ness Gifts is a family owned and managed gift shop in the picturesque village of Drumnadrochit.

Merkinch Local Nature Reserve

This hidden gem in Inverness is a haven for wildlife.

Beaufort Hotel

Beaufort Hotel is a family business with 34 comfortable En Suite rooms.Free parking available

Grant Driving Tours; Scotland

Private driving tours throughout The Highlands for groups of up to seven travellers

Foyers Lodge

Foyers Lodge offers stylish accommodation, delicious food and unrivalled views of Loch Ness.

Ness Islands

A little slice of nature in the bustling city of Inverness.

One of Scotland's top sites to see dragonflies and damselflies

Burger King

An ideal stop off for a fast, value for money family meal.

The Lock Inn

The Lock Inn is a traditional Highland Pub sitting on the banks of the canal in Fort Augustus. 

Culloden House Hotel

At the time of the Jacobite uprising in 1745-46, Bonnie Prince Charlie used Culloden House as his lodging and battle headquarters prior to that fateful battle on Culloden Moor.

Hou Hou Mei

A modern take on traditional Asian cuisine in Inverness.

Highland Cows - Quila Cridhe B&B & Tea Rooms

See the coos whilst haveing coffee and cake! 

Aigas Golf Course

Aigas 9 hole Golf Course nestles spectacularly between the Aigas forest and the peaceful river Beauly just 5 minutes drive from the bustling village of Beauly.

Loch Ness Ice Cream

Wholesale producer of luxury ice cream.

Dochgarroch and Caledonian Canal Walk

Walk or cycle the Caledonian Canal towpath from Inverness to Dochgarroch Locks.

Craigmonie Walk & Viewpoint

Climb up to a spectacular viewpoint over Loch Ness and Urquhart Bay.

Cabot Highlands

Located in the Highlands on the Moray Firth this course is worth of Scotland's Home of Golf prestige

Things to see and do in Inverness and Loch Ness

The hardest part will be choosing what to do first. Whether you live for exploring the outdoors on land or water, motivated by historic discovery, inspired by nature, wildlife and mystical monsters, or simply want to spend your holiday relaxing, recharging and soaking up the spectacular scenery, there is an activity or attraction to suit everyone.

Using the filters on the map above you can select the type of activity that inspires you, your results will help you shape a trip full of great adventures, new experiences to create fabulous memories and probably a large amount of photos!

Castles, History and Attractions

Discover 1000 years of history, from castles and battlefields, to forts and ancient ruins, Inverness and Loch Ness has history around every corner to unfold and is a history lovers dream discovery destination. 

We know you won't have time to do everything in one visit, but we have gathered all the information in one place for you to take a closer look at all the options for castles, history and attractions to help you build the perfect itinerary. 

Discover our waters by boat

One of the most popular ways of discovering Loch Ness, the Caledonian Canal and the Moray Firth is by sailing the waves on a boat tour.

Whether it's learning about the history, some fun Nessie hunting or in search of local wildlife, you get to experience just how wonderful our waters are when you cruise along and take in the wonderful scenery that surrounds them.

Boat tours are available from different locations around the area, Click below to discover more.

Outdoor Activities

Inverness and Loch Ness really is your launch pad to outdoor adventure, from water sports on Loch Ness, to hiking and cycling trails, Fishing, gorge walking and even alpaca trekking. There is something for everyone to enjoy in the great outdoors, you will just need more time to fit it all in!

Highland Cows

The top of most visitors agenda is to meet our most popular locals, the Highland Cows.

The good news is you can view some locations on the map above so you know where to find them during your visit. We have also put together some useful information and fun facts about our furry friends, click the link below to learn all about the famous coos and where to find them.

Whisky Distilleries and Experiences

Whether you are starting your Whisky journey and wanting to taste your very first dram or if you are an experienced Whisky lover wanting to visit and savour the local Whisky Experiences, we promise there will be something new and exciting to try in Inverness and Loch Ness.

Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or an enthusiastic amateur, Inverness and Loch Ness is a must-visit destination for all golf lovers. Famed for its breath taking landscapes and rich history, the region also hosts a variety of golf courses, each with their own unique charm and challenges.

Discover more about the courses and ranges available for your stay in the area.

Discover Walks, Wildlife and Hidden Gems

Walking, wildlife, waterfalls, nature and scenery, something Inverness and Loch Ness has in abundance. Even when visiting the city you can take a wonderful stroll in nature along the River Ness to the Ness islands. We have natural waterfalls to find and countless viewpoints and walks to breathe in the incredible scenery the area has to offer.

Shopping and Gifts

Whether you are looking for a gift, a souvenir to remember your holiday by or want to search out the unique independent local businesses, products and produce, let us help you discover the destination one shopping experience at a time! 

Highland Culture and Traditions

Learn about Highland culture and traditions during your visit to Inverness and Loch Ness, find out how it has shaped our history and has been carried into todays Highland life.

Guided Tours

If you arrive in Inverness by plane, train or bus and don't want to hire a car or want to ditch the car and relax, you can still discover and explore the city and wider area, do not worry! There is a fantastic range of tour guides and companies that will help you explore our magnificent region.

Discover 1000 years of history, from castles and battlefields, to forts and ancient ruins.

One of the most popular ways of discovering Loch Ness, the Caledonian Canal and the Moray Firth.

There is something for everyone to enjoy in the great outdoors, you will just need more time to fit it all in!

Learn all about the famous coos and where to find them.

Create the best whisky itinerary and make sure to not miss a single dram.

Explore the courses and ranges available for your stay in the area.

Walks, Wildlife and Hidden Gems

Walking, wildlife, waterfalls, nature and scenery, something Inverness and Loch Ness have in abundance, find out more.

Explore the unique independent local businesses, products and produce, let us help you discover the destination one shopping experience at a time! 

Learn how the Highland Culture and traditions have shaped our history and have been carried into today's Highland life.

Discover the fantastic range of tour guides and companies that will help you explore our magnificent region.

Create a list of your favourites!

Collect your favourite ideas and create the perfect personalised itinerary with our favourites tool.

Simply click the heart icon when you see a place you want to visit or stay and you will create a list and personalised map in the favourites section at the top of the homepage.

This will help you plan your trip and discover where everything is that you want to see and do and help you decide where you'd like to stay!

Happy Planning!

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Getty Images/EyeEm

Inverness has a great location astride the River Ness at the northern end of the Great Glen. In summer it overflows with visitors intent on monster hunting at nearby Loch Ness, but it's worth a visit in its own right for a stroll along the picturesque River Ness, a cruise on Loch Ness, and a meal in one of the city's excellent restaurants.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Ness Islands

The main attraction in Inverness is a leisurely stroll along the river to the Ness Islands. Planted with mature Scots pine, fir, beech and sycamore, and…

Inverness Museum & Art Gallery

Inverness Museum & Art Gallery has wildlife dioramas, geological displays, period rooms with historic weapons, Pictish stones and exhibitions of…

Inverness Castle

The hill above the city centre is topped by the picturesque Baronial turrets of Inverness Castle, a pink-sandstone confection dating from 1847 that…

St Andrew’s Cathedral

The red-sandstone towers of St Andrew’s Cathedral date from 1869.

Plan with a local

Experience the real Scotland

Let a local expert craft your dream trip.

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Book popular activities in Inverness

The Chaotic Scot

SCOTTISH TRAVEL BLOG

Top Things to Do in Inverness & Beyond

Inverness is a small city with a lot to offer. Known worldwide thanks to its proximity to the famous Loch Ness and the ‘Outlander effect’, there’s so much more to Inverness than legendary monsters and fictional time travel.

Nestled in the heart of the Highlands on the banks of the River Ness, Inverness boasts the best of both worlds; a compact city centre and a vast scenic playground within close reach. Together they provide a superabundance of cultural sights, outdoor attractions, historic gems and a thriving food & drink scene.

Inverness can be a city break or a base for epic adventures. How about both?

My visits to Inverness have been on my own travels and on paid campaigns with Visit Inverness Loch Ness , Inverness Taxis and Citylink .

This post contains affiliate links from which I might make a small commission at no extra cost to you.

The journey to Inverness was like travelling backwards through the seasons: sunshine and golden spring-like fields in Fife and Perthshire, with bright white snowy mountains in the distance, followed by full-on immersion in winter wonderland conditions in the Cairngorms. I stepped outside Inverness Station just in time for a sudden downpour but from lunchtime onwards it was all blue skies and sharp, cold air. Inverness Castle was looking particularly vibrant and bonnie under such conditions! It’s been so lovely reacquainting myself with this wee city and it’s scenic surrounds. (my first trip back to Inverness after lockdown, 2022)

WHERE IS INVERNESS?

Inverness is a small city in the Scottish Highlands. ‘Inver’ means ‘at the mouth of the river’, therefore as the name suggests, Inverness sits at the mouth of the River Ness, to the east of Loch Ness.

West of Inverness, you’ll find the Moray Firth, Speyside and Aberdeenshire.

Inverness is the starting and finishing point for the popular North Coast 500 driving route.

GETting TO & exploring Inverness

Inverness is a transport hub with multiple train and bus connections, making it the perfect destination or base location for car-free explorers. The city is easy to explore on foot and you can also hire a bike from Inverness Bike Hire or Ticket to Ride . There are multiple tour operators too, offering day tours & multi-day tours to a variety of destinations (recommendations further down) .

If you are travelling with your own vehicle, the area around and beyond Inverness is a paradise for road-trippers. Just be sure to book accommodation with on-site parking, as street parking in the city is scarce; alternatively, you can pay to park in Old Town Rose Street Car Park which is very central.

TRAINS TO INVERNESS

The rail operators which serve Inverness are ScotRail , LNER (I highly recommend their First Class option as a treat) and the Caledonian Sleeper which travels overnight all the way to London.

> Edinburgh – Inverness takes up to 3 hours and 45 minutes, passing through Perthshire and the Cairngorms.

If you’d like to break up the journey and spend a night in Perthshire, check out my blog post on Dunkeld .

> Aberdeen to Inverness takes around 2 hours and 15 minutes, travelling through Speyside and Moray.

If you’d like to hop off somewhere on this route, visit Elgin and it’s medieval cathedral or the beautiful beach town of Nairn.

> Take a scenic rail journey north from Inverness ; check out the Far North Line which travels all the way up to Thurso or Wick and The Kyle Line which goes northwest to Kyle of Lochalsh.

BUSES TO INVERNESS

Citylink and Stagecoach are the two main bus operators which serve Inverness.

> Edinburgh to Inverness and Glasgow to Inverness (Citylink) take around 3 hours and 40/50 minutes; popular stops on these routes are Perth, Pitlochry and Aviemore.

> Inverness to Fort William (Citylink) takes 2 hours and 5 minutes; the route goes along Loch Ness.

> Inverness to Portree, Isle of Skye (Citylink) takes 3 hours and 20 minutes.

> Inverness to Culloden Battlefield (Stagecoach) takes around 25 minutes.

> Inverness to Scrabster Ferry Terminal for Orkney (Stagecoach) takes 3 hours 40 minutes.

DRIVING TO INVERNESS

Use Google Maps for navigation when you’re driving but add on extra time if you’re not familiar with the roads or you’re not used to driving on the other side of the road.

Some visitors will fly from London straight to Inverness with easyJet, or take the train from one of the cities, before picking up a hire car in Inverness. This allows you to experience the relaxing journey of the train and the freedom of having your own vehicle.

You can pick up a hire car in Inverness and drop it off in another location e.g. Edinburgh or Glasgow. Nationwide operators who offer this option include Arnold Clark , Enterprise and Sixt .

TOP THINGS TO DO IN INVERNESS CITY CENTRE

1) lose yourself in magical leakey’s bookshop.

This beautiful bookshop is a wonderland for bookworms. Step inside to discover an enchanting escape, which exudes charm from every book and nook.

The signature scent of old book pages stimulates the senses immediately upon entry, before your eyes have had a chance to marvel at the surroundings. Hundreds of second hand books flood the interior with colour, while the stained-glass windows flashback to the building’s former existence as an 18 th century Gaelic church.

Owner Charles Leakey has created a spellbinding place, which feels far removed from the modern world as we know it.

VISIT the website for more information

2) BOOK A TOUR WITH WALK INVERNESS

Cath Findlay is the lovely lady behind this local tour company. With a background in adult education, coaching and public speaking, Cath is a wonderful guide and a true ambassador for Inverness.

The walking tour takes in the city’s main sites and statues, as well as an obligatory walk along the River Ness. Being an Inverness local, Cath certainly knows her stuff, and personalises the commentary with stories about her childhood and ancestors.

Even more exciting is that Cath has just launched a new Food & Walking tour to celebrate the city’s fantastic local produce, sweet treats and craft beverages.

Cath wears a red tartan hat with feathers poking out the top, so you’ll have no trouble finding her!

BOOK a tour with Cath here

3) BROWSE INVERNESS MUSEUM & ART GALLERY

The Scottish Highlands boast some of the most unique and breath-taking landscapes in the world, and the history ranges from fascinating to heart-breaking.

Inverness Museum explains the mind-boggling geology of the Highlands, and does a sterling job of summarising the significant periods in Scotland’s history; from Neolithic settlers and the Picts, to the Vikings and Jacobites.

The exhibits feature easy-to-digest information, and excellent artefacts which make the past somewhat tangible. Thanks to places like this, I feel like I get to know my country better with every trip I go on. This museum is well worth a meander.

ENTRY to the museum is free. Check the opening hours here .

4) RIVERSIDE WALK TO NESS ISLANDS

If you fancy a scenic stroll through the forest, you don’t even need to leave the city. Inverness has a group of mini-isles right in the River Ness, which are connected to the embankment by pretty Victorian suspension bridges.

Walking around Ness Islands, you’ll forget you’re even in a city at all. Expect towering trees, a Nessie-carved log, and the soothing sound of the fast flowing river.

The walk from Chapel Street in the city centre to Ness Islands takes around 30 minutes and I recommend following one side of the river to get there and returning via the other side for a lovely, leisurely loop.

Stop for a coffee at Ness Walk Kiosk near Inverness Cathedral.

5) CYCLE THE CALEDONIAN CANAL

The Great Glen is a major fault line which slices through Scotland from Fort William to Inverness, with four lochs in between: Loch Linnhe, Loch Lochy, Loch Oich and Loch Ness.

In the 19 th century, the Caledonian Canal was constructed to connect the lochs and allow safe passage for ships travelling from east to west, or vice versa. Designed by Thomas Telford, one of Scotland’s greatest engineers, the canal is as beautiful as it is practical.

Watching boats and barges come through the system of locks makes for excellent viewing and the canalside is perfect for cycling.

I cycled right down to Clachnaharry Sea Lock, crossing over the railway swing bridge which still has a classic signal box in operation.

As soon as I entered that last section of the canal, facing into the Beauly Firth, I was hit by a wall of wind and the smell of the sea – along with views of Kessock Bridge in one direction, and snowy mountains in the other. Amazing!

HIRE a bike from Ticket to Ride in Bellfield Park or Inverness Bike Hire on Church Street.

6) TOUR Uilebhest Distillery & Brewery

Opened in 2023, this sustainable and slightly sinister (only the branding!) new drinks producer is crafting artisan whisky and beer a stone’s throw from the River Ness.

Gaelic for ‘monster’, Uilebhiest’s branding and vibes capture the dark elements of Scottish stories and folklore; their artwork was created by Ken Taylor, famed for this illustrated posters for Metallica, The Rolling Stones and Pearl Jam.

BOOK a Discovery Tour to learn all about this small team’s big plans, or simply head straight to the bar for a beer.

7) WANDER THROUGH INVERNESS BOTANIC GARDENS

A tropical oasis in the Scottish Highlands, Inverness Botanic Gardens is one of the city’s lesser-known attractions but is well worth a wee wander.

The peaceful, plant-filled gardens and greenhouses are a treat for the senses; a fusion of colours, smells, heat and beauty. Entry is free and the attraction is open 7 days a week.  

I found myself in the Tropical House during a sudden downpour; the warmth, sanctuary and sound of the heavy rain was magical!

READ more about the gardens, the plant specimens and the café etc. here .

TOP THINGS TO DO BEYOND INVERNESS

8) visit culloden battlefield.

Getting there: Drive (15 mins) take the Stagecoach bus (22 mins, £2.40 each way) or book a taxi with Inverness Taxis

Anyone with an interest in history or who wishes to pay their respects to the fallen clans should visit Culloden. Less than 6 miles from Inverness, Culloden Battlefield is the site of the last battle fought on British soil; the final clash between the Jacobites and the British government, and one that would change the Highland way of life forever.

The Visitor Centre brings the history to life through excellent, comprehensive displays told from both sides; a timeline of events through this complex period, the brutal battle itself, and the aftermath of the Jacobite defeat. There is an immersive 360-degree film too.

Out on the battlefield, you’ll find a series of flags, information boards and memorial cairns to the clans.

ALLOW around 2 hours for your visit. Culloden is far from just a ‘photo stop’. Take your time and do it justice. Find out more here .

9) MONSTER & HISTORY HUNTING ON LOCH NESS

There’s no judgement here from me if you have an urge to go in search of the legendary ‘Nessie’ in Loch Ness. It’s a touristy novelty and I’m a big fan of boat trips in general, so why not?

Loch Ness is a vast and mysterious body of water, steeped in both history and folklore, and fringed by stunning scenery and historic castle ruins.

Jacobite Cruises offer boat trips from Dochgarroch Lock, just outside Inverness. If you don’t have your own transport, book this 3-hour tour option which includes coach transport from Inverness Bus Station, a 1-hour cruise of Loch Ness, and 1-hour ashore at Urquhart Castle.

10) DOLPHIN SPOTTING AT CHANONRY POINT

Getting there: Drive (30 mins), take the Stagecoach bus 26/26A to Rosemarkie (32mins then walk 1.2 miles) or book a taxi with Inverness Taxis .

Chanonry Point is a finger of land on the Black Isle, which extents out into the Moray Firth. Not only does it provide a bonnie vista out over the water, it is also a prime position for dolphin watching.

What’s unique about the experience, is the proximity with which you can see these super-cute creatures. In fact, there is no better place in the country to see bottlenose dolphins. I was sceptical about spotting any at all, but the rumours are true! I was mesmerised watching a pod of them playing around so close to where I was standing.

The best time to spot the dolphins is April – August during the rise tide; approx 1 hour after low tide.

CHECK the tide time for Chanonry Point here .

11) DISCOVER the moray coast

Getting there: Drive (as far as you like), take the train to Nairn (20 mins), take two Stagecoach buses to Findhorn or take the train to Elgin (45 mins) and catch a the Stagecoach bus to Lossiemouth.

In my opinion, one of Scotland’s most underrated areas, this picturesque coastline runs east from Inverness into Moray Speyside then Aberdeenshire. Along the way, there are countless bonnie beaches, patches of forest and the most charming fishing villages and historic harbours.

Nairn – discover the beautiful Nairn Beach and grab street food from Strathnairn Beach Cafe .

Findhorn – follow the horseshoe bay round to Findhorn Beach with it’s colourful beach huts. Have lunch at Kimberley Inn .

Lossiemouth – walk along East Beach, wander around the harbour and have lunch at Harbour Lights .

WHERE TO EAT IN INVERNESS

The food and drink scene in Inverness has never been better, thanks to the area’s amazing producers and Highland hospitality. TOP TIP: support independent businesses over familiar chains and always make dinner reservations in advance.

> XOKO – you will find me here on every single visit to Inverness for glorious artisan sweet & savoury pastries, sourdough and cakes; all lovingly homemade on-site in the open plan kitchen. Grab a selection for a picnic on the go or sit in for breakfast/lunch and coffee.

> The Victorian Market – this charming, historic thoroughfare is worth a visit anyway but even more so since the addition of the Market Hall, filled with a variety of Highland food vendors. My favourites are Redshank for Scottish street food, Salt ‘N’ Fire for colourful, healthy plant based delights and Bad Girl Bakery for sweet treats. I still have a few to try!

> PERK – now an Inverness institution thanks to their famous doughnuts, this cute café serves toasties, barista coffee and outrageously good doughnuts by day (specials change every month), and beautifully crafted cocktails by night. Biscoff espresso martini, anyone?

> Velocity Café – a local social enterprise, bike shop and sustainable café, Velocity serves vegetarian and vegan food for breakfast and lunch; epic egg dishes to start the day, plus soup, salads, wraps, bagels and sweet things.

> Hou Hou Mei – one of the city’s newer additions, and already hugely popular, Hou Hou Mei (which translates as ‘very very yummy’) is an Asian fusion restaurant, where modern meets traditional. The dumplings are delicious and the Chicken Kindo main course was my favourite!

> The Kitchen Brasserie – a solid choice for a special lunch or dinner right on the River Ness, this glass-fronted, family-run restaurant focuses on high quality Scottish produce. If there’s venison on the menu, this is the place to try it!

> Inverness Coffee Roasting Company – if a high-quality caffeine fix is what you’re after, check out this small Espresso Bar & Bean Shop on Chapel Street. A complimentary cube of Scottish tablet is a very welcome accompaniment to a fresh coffee.

PUBS, BARS & LIVE MUSIC IN INVERNESS

There are plenty pubs and multiple music nights in Inverness; more than I’ve had the chance to visit. These are my favourite spots.

  > The Hootananny – for guaranteed nightly live music, this legendary local watering hole is the place to go. Expect hearty Scottish pub food and a great atmosphere. View the lively line-up of musicians and events on their website.

> MacGregor’s Bar – another great traditional pub with live music, local craft beers, classic Scottish food with a twist (haggis bhaji and ‘blaggis fries’) and whisky tasting events every night from Monday – Friday (April – October).

> Black Isle Bar – brought to you by Black Isle Brewery, located less than 7 miles away, check out this bustling bar for local, organic beer (beer flights available) and wood-fired pizzas topped with garlic, herbs and salad homegrown in the brewery garden.

> The Malt Room – this wee whisky bar is a true hidden gem, tucked away down an alley off Church Street. It’s relaxed and intimate; the perfect place to chat to the friendly, knowledgeable staff and sample a few drams.

TOURS FROM INVERNESS

Whether you’re car-free or just fancy taking a break from driving, organised tours are a brilliant way to explore multiple locations or attractions. As a former tour guide, I might be biased, but you will learn SO much from your tour guide; local facts, history, myths and legends – with a healthy dose of Scottish humour 1

Highland Explorer TOURS

> Moray Coast, Wildlife & Speyside Whisky To ur for a lovely varied trip away from the popular tourist trail.

> Isle of Skye & Eilean Donan Castle day tour

If Skye is high on your list, and you have more time to spare, consider doing the less rushed 3 Day Isle of Skye & Jacobite Steam Train tour .

RABBIE’S TOURS

> Glen Affric, Culloden & Clava Cairns for the perfect mix of Highland scenery and Jacobite history.

If you don’t have a car, but you would still like to experience sections of the stunning North Coast 500 road-trip route, check out these tours:

> Torridon, Applecross & Eilean Donan Castle

> Dunrobin Castle & Easter Ross

There are also multi-day options which travel up to the Orkney Islands and the Outer Hebrides:

> 3 Day Orkney Explorer

> 3 Day Lewis, Harris & Outer Hebrides

where to stay in INVERNESS

> Bazpackers – small and friendly hostel close to Inverness Castle with a wood-burning stove, free tea & coffee and private rooms with shared bathrooms.

> Black Isle Bar & Rooms – across the street from the train station, this independent hostel has spacious dorm rooms, spotless bathrooms and the benefit of wood-fired pizza and local beer directly next door.

> Ardtentorrie Guest House – stay with local hosts in this highly rated guest house, complete with a hot cooked breakfast.

> River Ness Hotel – one of the city’s newest hotels; very central, modern throughout with welcoming staff.

> AC By Marriott – comfortable and contemporary new hotel with an excellent buffet breakfast.

> Best Western Inverness Palace Hotel – a large, resort-style hotel right on the River Ness with spacious rooms, a bar, restaurant, swimming pool and spa.

> Ness Walk – this 5* hotel is characterised by its stylish and luxurious interiors, flooded with natural light; afternoon tea and fine dining are available in the on-site restaurant.

I hope you that you found this helpful and enjoyed reading about the things to do in Inverness.

I’m Kay, by the way; you can read more about me  here .

Keep up with my Scottish adventures on Facebook and Instagram

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The Top 12 Things to Do Inverness, Scotland

Westend61 / Getty Images

Inverness, situated on Scotland's northwest coast where the River Ness meets the Moray Firth, is the largest city in the Scottish Highlands and the nearest city to Loch Ness. It has a quaint old town with numerous historical attractions in the city center and the surrounding area. Inverness is popular with travelers who want to explore Loch Ness, the Culloden Battlefield, Clava Cairns, and those looking for outdoor excursions. Whether you're planning a trip specifically to Inverness or stopping through on a visit to the Highlands, there's a lot to see and do. Here are the 12 best things to do when exploring Inverness.

Tour Inverness Castle

northlightimages / Getty Images

Inverness Castle, built in the 19th century, overlooks the River Ness. The current structure was originally a prison, although there have been several past castles on the site through the centuries. Today, the castle grounds and the north tower are open to the public, with a scenic viewpoint located in the upper part of the tower. It's a great way to learn about the castle's history and get a 360-degree view of Inverness and its surrounding area. Hours can be limited, so check online in advance of your visit.

Explore Inverness Museum & Art Gallery

John Allan / CC BY-SA 2.0 / WikiMedia Commons

The history and culture of the Scottish Highlands are on view at the Inverness Museum & Art Gallery, which offers free admission to visitors. The museum, located in the city center at the foot of Castle Hill, features exhibitions on geology, natural history, archaeological heritage, and culture, focusing on Inverness and the Highlands. See everything from Jacobite memorabilia to Inverness silverware to Highland weapons and bagpipes. There are frequent special events and activities, including those tailored to families and kids. Don't forget to stop by the IMAG Café for coffee or a snack.

Visit Loch Ness and Urqhart Castle

Izzet Keribar / Getty Images

Loch Ness is about 30 minutes by car or bus from Inverness, and it's easily accessible even if you don't want to rent a car. The famed lake, supposedly home to the mysterious Loch Ness Monster, is also the site of the ruins of Urqhart Castle. At Loch Ness, enjoy walking or biking on the Loch Ness 360 Trail or embark on a boat tour. Urqhart Castle dates back over 1,000 years, and visitors can tour the grounds and ruins for a ticketed fee. From Inverness' city center, hop on the 919 bus for a direct route to Loch Ness.

Walk the Culloden Battlefield

Cablach / Getty Images

The site of the Jacobite Rising is now a historical attraction where curious visitors can learn about the history of the Battle of Culloden. The visitor center has an exhibition of the legacy of the battle, and there are a lot of details to spot on the battlefield itself. Don't miss Leanach Cottage, a traditional thatched cottage from the early 18th century, and the shop where you can score a bottle of Culloden Battlefield Highland Malt. Culloden is about 10 minutes outside Inverness and is accessible by car, taxi, or public bus.

Discover Clava Cairns

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The Prehistoric Burial Cairns of Bulnuaran of Clava, known as the Clava Cairns, make a great day trip from Inverness. Located near the Culloden battlefield, the Clava Cairns is a Bronze Age cemetery complex of passage graves and standing stones (yes, like in "Outlander"). The site is open year-round and free for visitors who can explore the preserved ruins. The Clava Cairns, which are well paired with a trip to Culloden, can be reached by car, bike, or public bus from Inverness.

Visit Fort George

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Head northeast of Inverness to explore Fort George, an 18th-century fortress built to control the Scottish Highlands after the Jacobite uprising. Since its construction, It has remained in use, and parts are currently open to the public for tours. Walk along the rampart, which extends over half a mile, and visit the Highlanders' Museum to learn more about the region's military history. Tours are self-guided, with an audio guide available to access on your phone. The fort is open most of the year, but the hours change depending on the season. Fort George is best accessed by car or taxi.

Stroll Along the River Ness

Dennis Barnes / Getty Images

Enjoy a two-hour circular walk from the Inverness city center along the banks of the scenic River Ness. The path takes visitors past the Ness Islands, the Inverness War Memorial, and Inverness Cathedral. Those who want to continue can extend the trek to the Great Glen Way or along the Caledonian Canal, both iconic trails. The path is generally flat, making it a good option for people of all ages and abilities. In the colder months, bring along layers, warm shoes, and an umbrella.

Explore Inverness Botanic Gardens

Courtesy of Inverness Botanic Gardens

Wander the Inverness Botanic Gardens, which is free to all visitors. The colorful gardens have numerous features, from a tropical house to a cactus house. Stop by the restaurant inside the gardens called Cafe Botanic, which is ideal for lunch or snacks. The attraction is located slightly outside of the city center and offers a peaceful respite for those tired of busy sight-seeing spots.

Shop in Leakey's Bookshop

Courtesy of Leakey's Bookshop

Stroll over to Church Street to discover Leaky's Bookshop, a second-hand bookstore that has been a fixture in Inverness since 1979. It's Scotland's largest used bookstore, and it's a must-see for book lovers. The emphasis is on non-fiction, although you can find books of all sorts on Leaky's vast shelves. The shop is located in the old town of Inverness, making it a good stop as you make your way through downtown.

Sip Coffee at Velocity Café & Bicycle Workshop

Courtesy of Velocity Cafe© & Bicycle Workshop

The best coffee in Inverness can be found at Velocity Café & Bicycle Workshop, located a short walk outside the city center. The cafe, which serves vegetarian food, delicious pastries, and coffee-based drinks, is a great place to sit and take a break from sightseeing. It's also a bike workshop, where cyclists can get repairs or other services on their bikes (or just find some like-minded people).

Dine at the Mustard Seed Restaurant

Courtesy of The Mustard Seed Restaurant

Downtown Inverness is relatively small, boasting several good dining options. One of the best and most popular is Mustard Seed Restaurant, located along the River Ness. It was built in a former church, leaving a ton of space for seating, and even has an outdoor balcony. They serve Scottish food and use local ingredients; you can't go wrong with any order. The restaurant has a little something for everyone who walks through its doors—the two-course lunch deal is a great budget-friendly option for travelers, and there are several vegan dishes perfect for those with plant-based diets. Reserve a table in advance; this restaurant fills up fast.

Hike to the Fairy Glen

Michael Jagla / Getty Images

Drive to nearby Rosemarkie and follow an easy trail to the Fairy Glen, a beautiful glen with two waterfalls. It's less than a two-mile walk, so kids and those with limited fitness abilities can also join in the fun. While the trail is not steep, it can get slippery and muddy, so sturdy shoes are highly recommended. Plan your visit for a warm day to take full advantage of the water.

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14 Top-Rated Things to Do in Inverness, Scotland

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Mar 17, 2023

Widely considered one of the prettiest cities in the United Kingdom, Inverness should feature highly on your list of places to visit in Scotland . As the largest city in the Scottish Highlands, it serves as the perfect jumping-off point for those wanting to get a taste of this rugged and extremely scenic region.

But don't be too quick to leave the "Capital of the Highlands" behind you. There are plenty of great reasons to linger a little longer in the city. In addition to its pretty setting, where the River Ness flows into the wide Moray Firth, it's home to many historic old churches and fortresses to explore; charming streets and riverside pathways to wander; and great shopping, dining, and entertainment opportunities to experience.

And you don't have to venture too far outside Inverness to experience some of Scotland's best-known tourist attractions . Loch Ness, supposed home of the famously shy Nessie sea monster, is no more than 15 minutes' drive away, with its famous Urquhart Castle just a short drive farther along the loch's shore. The Scottish Highlands' most infamous battle site, Culloden, where the English cemented their rule over the country, is also close by.

To learn more about this most beautiful Scottish city, be sure to read through our list of the top things to do in Inverness.

1. Visit Mighty Fort George

2. stroll along the banks of river ness & visit the ness islands, 3. inverness castle, 4. explore a world of plants at inverness botanic gardens, 5. inverness museum and art gallery, 6. st. andrew's cathedral, 7. caledonian canal, 8. take a trip to loch ness and urquhart castle, 9. eden court theatre, 10. visit the culloden battlefield and culloden viaduct, 11. tour abertarff house, the oldest building in inverness, 12. shop at the victorian market, 13. go for tartan at the scottish kiltmaker visitor centre, 14. old high st. stephen's church, map of things to do in inverness, scotland, inverness - climate chart.

Twenty minutes' drive east of downtown Inverness, at the narrowest point of the Firth of Forth, stands Fort George. Built soon after the 1746 defeat of the Scots at the Battle of Culloden, it served as a reminder to the restless Scots that London and the English monarchy were firmly in charge.

The largest artillery fortress in the British Isles, it stretches nearly a kilometer in length, its unique shape designed to allow its defenders to fire their weapons in pretty much any direction in which an enemy might approach. Many of these original weapons can still be viewed here, including an impressive collection of cannons and other weaponry such as muskets, pikes, and swords.

Other highlights of a visit include exhibits revealing the lives of ordinary soldiers at the time, including a peek into their barracks, the armoury, and other areas. There's also a museum dedicated to the Queen's Own Highlanders, as well as a visitor center with a gift shop.

This popular Inverness attraction can get busy, so be sure to book your tickets in advance through their official website.

Address: Ardersier, Inverness, Scotland

Official site: www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/fort-george/

Exploring Inverness's beautiful riverfront area on foot is a must-do. While hardcore walkers will want to tackle the nearly 12-kilometer hike from downtown Inverness to the east shore of Loch Ness and pick up the Loch Ness 360° Trail, a circular route that takes in the whole lake, those with less time or energy can have as much fun sticking within the city itself.

Beginning in the city center, the Ness Walk follows both banks of the river in an easy three-kilometer loop that can be done in around two hours. Along the way, you'll have the chance to spot wildlife, pay your respects at the Inverness War Memorial, and admire the many gardens that line the route.

The Ness Islands, a series of small islands located mid-river, are also fun to explore. Accessible by a series of attractive Victorian-era pedestrian bridges, the islands make for a great place to kick back and enjoy a riverside picnic. The Greig Street Bridge, built in 1880, is another footbridge you'll want to cross for its lovely views over the city and river.

While currently only a portion of Inverness Castle is open to the public, you'll still want to include it on your list of places to visit in Inverness. Built of local sandstone, it stands overlooking the River Ness and boasts lovely grounds worth exploring.

There's also a great viewpoint that overlooks both the river and the city. While it involves a climb up some steep stairs, it's well worth it for those wanting a great photo to take home with them.

Also, make a note in your diary to return to the castle in the future. Plans are underway to turn it into a multi-million-dollar attraction, "The Spirit of the Highlands," which will showcase the region's cultural heritage and natural beauty while breathing new life into the castle.

Address: Castle Road, Inverness. Scotland

Official site: www.spiritofthehighlands.com

Since it opened in 1993, strolling around Inverness Botanic Gardens has proven to be another popular activity in the Capital of the Highlands. The fact the gardens are located just a few minutes' walk away from the Ness Islands means they can be tackled as part of walk along the network of trails that line the River Ness, too.

Highlights of a visit in spring and summer include exploring the park's many colorful flowerbeds, while its glasshouses can be visited year-round. These indoor plant collections include tropical rainforest specimens, as well as desert plant life.

A pleasant waterfall feature and a large fish pond are also on the premises. Guided tours are available but require advance notice.

Address: Bught Ln, Inverness, Scotland

Official site: www.highlifehighland.com/inverness-botanic-gardens/

Culture buffs and art fans will also find many fun things to do in Inverness. If that sounds like you, you'll want to include the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery on your itinerary.

Located just a few steps away from Inverness Castle, this interesting, recently renovated facility mixes local history exhibits with displays of important works of art related to the Scottish Highlands . Important artworks on display include a series of portraits of the Stuart clan, including one of Bonnie Prince Charlie that Oliver Cromwell famously had hung upside down by way of insult.

Also worth seeing are the museum's collection of Highland memorabilia, bagpipes, and weaponry. A café is located on-site.

Address: Castle Wynd, Inverness, Scotland

Official site: www.highlifehighland.com/inverness-museum-and-art-gallery/

Another must-see Inverness attraction that's located close to the castle is St. Andrew's Cathedral. Built in 1869 and a relatively recent addition to the city's extensive list of attractive buildings to view, its riverside setting and local red stone construction undoubtedly makes it one of the prettiest churches in Scotland.

Britain's most northerly Anglican cathedral, it's notable for its fine stained-glass windows, as well as its interior furnishings and stone carvings. It's also home to an excellent café, and a gift shop is located on the premises.

Keep an ear open for the cathedral's bells, which can be heard across the city and are said to be among the best in Scotland.

Address: Ardross Street, Inverness, Scotland

Official site: https://invernesscathedral.org

Completed in 1849, the Caledonian Canal remains one of the most significant feats of engineering in Scotland. Following the Caledonian fault line from Fort William in the west all the way to Inverness, the canal in fact makes use of Loch Ness and other natural waterways for some 60 per cent of its nearly 100-kilometer route.

Although it was built to enable shipping traffic to avoid having to travel around Scotland's usually stormy and difficult to navigate northern tip, it's pleasure craft for the most part that now ply the canal's waters. Almost as much fun as taking a multi-day holiday cruise or shorter sightseeing cruise is simply sitting by the canal or one of its 29 locks and watching the boats pass by.

An easy 30-minute drive or bus ride away from downtown Inverness, you'll find yourself standing looking at Scotland's most famous lake: Loch Ness . If time's short and you can't circle the whole loch, head for the north shore.

Here, you'll find the ruins of spectacular Urquhart Castle. Undoubtedly one of the most picturesque scenes in all of Scotland, this impressive castle has a long and rich history that dates all the way back to the 13th century. Be sure to allow time to also pop into the visitor center, with its exhibits and artifacts relating to its important role in Scottish history.

If you can make the whole journey around the lake, expect to allow at least a day to see everything. The Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition is a must, especially for those wanting to learn more about the famously elusive Loch Ness Monster.

The Eden Court Theatre is a great place to visit for those seeking a little nighttime fun and entertainment. Featuring two state-of-the-art theaters, dance studios, and cinemas, its construction accommodated important 19th-century structures, including a former palace and a church, making it the largest such facility in Scotland.

Its regular roster of entertainment includes professional theatrical performances, classical music concerts, as well as visits from touring rock and pop bands. A varied program of workshops is also provided. A café is located on the premises.

Address: Bishops Road, Inverness, Scotland

Official site: https://eden-court.co.uk

Just 10 minutes east of Inverness by car, you'll find yourself in the small yet historically significant community of Culloden. It was here in 1746 that Scots and English troops fought their last battle, one which ended in the defeat of the Stuart clan's attempt to regain the Scottish crown.

State-of-the-art displays and films in the visitor center, along with preserved buildings from the period, tell the story in great detail, so be sure to allow at least a few hours to see everything. There's plenty of walking to be done, but it's all well worth it to learn more about this pivotal moment in Scotland's history.

Afterwards, take a slight detour to catch a glimpse of the spectacular Culloden Viaduct. Also known as Nairn Viaduct, it was built in 1898 and its 29 spans make it the longest such viaduct in the country. While it's still in use and can't be walked, you can get some great photos of the viaduct from the roadside.

Address: Visitor Centre, Culloden Moor, Inverness, Highlands, Scotland

Official site: www.nts.org.uk/culloden/

Built in 1593 and still standing on Church Street, Abertarff House is famous as the oldest building in Inverness. Now a National Trust property, this perfectly preserved old townhouse provides a look at what life was like at the time of the Jacobite Revolution.

Fascinating displays provide details of past owners, and the on-site café will make you want to stick around a little longer. Check their official site for news of guided walking tours around Inverness's key historic landmarks. Admission is free.

Address: 71 Church Street, Inverness, Scotland

Official site: www.nts.org.uk/visit/places/abertarff-house

After all that Inverness sightseeing, take a break and indulge yourself in the city's most unique shopping experience.

Built in 1890, the Victorian Market is an indoor shopping arcade that houses a variety of independently owned retail outlets, including some selling unique handmade gifts, art, and crafts. A number of dining experiences are also located here.

Address: Academy Street, Inverness, Scotland

Speaking of shopping, nothing says "I've been to Scotland" quite like a genuine made-in-the-Highlands kilt. Take a walk to Huntly Street, and you'll find the Scottish Kiltmaker Visitor Centre, a unique shopping experience that provides a fascinating glimpse into the history and significance of Scotland's traditional formal outfit.

Highlights include displays of various clan tartans, as well as the chance to actually watch kilts being made in the on-site workshops. Handmade kilts are also available for purchase.

Address: 4-9 Huntly Street, Inverness, Scotland

Official site: www.highlandhouseoffraser.com

Although built in the 1700s, Old High St. Stephen's Church sits on a much older religious site that dates back to Celtic times. And it was certainly a good choice of location. Set overlooking the River Ness, it's an extremely photogenic church.

Be sure to pop in for a look at its interior. Highlights include the church's historic organ, recently restored and put through its paces regularly during services and recitals.

If there's time in your itinerary for another church, make sure it's St. Mary's Catholic Church. Built in 1837, it also boasts a magnificent riverside setting, and makes for an excellent photo.

Address: St. Stephen's Church, Southside Road at Old Edinburgh Road, Inverness

Official site: www.oldhighststephens.com

More on Scotland

• 1 Understand
• 2.1 By plane
• 2.2 By road
• 2.3 By train
• 2.5 By boat
• 3.2 By taxi
• 3.3 By bike
• 4.1 In town
• 4.2 Further out
• 9.2 Mid-range
• 9.3 Splurge

Inverness ( Scottish Gaelic : Inbhir Nis , "Mouth of the River Ness") is a city in The Great Glen and Strathspey area of the Scottish Highlands , at the point where the River Ness flows out into the Moray Firth.

Inverness is the only town of any size in the Highlands, and is the region's commercial and administrative centre. It's an agreeable Victorian town that has no stand-out tourist attractions of its own, but has good transport and choice of lodging and eating places. So it's a good base for exploring nearby Loch Ness, Black Isle, Culloden, Spey Valley and Cairngorm National Park.

Inverness is at the north end of the great fault line and valley through the Highlands, so it controls trade and transport routes. There was a Pictish and early Christian settlement by the 6th century, and it was the abode of that much-maligned 11th-century ruler Macbeth. Town and castle were wrecked by conflicts on many occasions, the last incursion being the Jacobites in 1746. The present castle is from 1835.

Inverness is nominally a city but feels like a provincial market town. The hinterland is thinly populated, lacks mineral resources and is a long way from major conurbations, so local industry has always been on a small scale. What you see now is mostly Victorian, with an encrustation of modern shop fronts. In 2020 Inverness had a population of 47,790.

VisitScotland iCentre is the tourist office, at 36 High Street ( ☏ +44 1463 252401 ), open daily 9AM-5PM.

They'll point you towards Loch Ness a few miles north, but the River Ness through town had the first recorded sighting of the monster, in the 5th century AD. St Columba was in the area to meet the local Pictish king when it raised its slimy head, but he made the Sign of the Cross, which shooed it away.

Take your time, the roads north of Perth are in good repair but mostly undivided, with few safe overtaking stretches and plenty of speed cameras.

From the south travel up A9 via Perth and Aviemore. Starting from Edinburgh follow M90 over the Forth road bridge to Perth; from Glasgow follow M80 / A9 past Stirling. From the London area you could go either way: via M1 / A1 to Newcastle and Edinburgh, or M1 / M6 / M74 past Carlisle onto M73 then M80. Bleak Drumochter Pass approaching Aviemore is the only stretch that might be blocked by snow, but it's seldom.

From Aberdeen via the A96 is 110 miles (176 km). The A82 tracks through the Great Glen from the south-west, from Fort William and Loch Ness.

From Thurso and Wick in the far north follow A9.

Inverness has trains from Edinburgh and Glasgow (direct every couple of hours or change at Perth, 4 hours), from Aberdeen (every two hours, 2 hr 15 min), from Kyle of Lochalsh for Skye (four per day, 2 hr 40 min) and from Wick and Thurso for Orkney (four per day, 4 hours). Travelling from England usually involves changing in Edinburgh, but there is one direct daytime train from London King's Cross via York and Newcastle, taking 8 hours.

The Caledonian Highland Sleeper runs Su-F from London Euston , departing around 9:30PM to arrive by 9AM. (Other portions for Aberdeen and Fort William divide at Edinburgh.) The southbound train leaves Inverness around 7PM to reach Euston towards 8AM. No trains on Saturday night. New rolling stock was introduced on all the sleeper routes in 2019. Compartments have two berths and are sold like hotel rooms: you pay extra for single occupancy, and you won't be sharing with a stranger. Tickets can be booked at any UK mainline railway station or online: in 2022 a single sleeper fare is around £200 for one or £250 for two people. You can also just use the sitting saloon, single £75. If you have an existing ticket or rail pass for a daytime train you need to buy a sleeper supplement. Pricing is dynamic: weekends cost more, if indeed there are berths available. Booking is open 12 months ahead and you need to print out your e-ticket to present on boarding.

57.48 -4.223 2 Inverness railway station is in city centre on Academy Street. It has a staffed ticket office and machines, toilets and a news shop; no cafe but plenty of pubs and eateries on the street outside. There is step-free access to all platforms. Lockers for luggage charge £5 for a small locker, which fits a backpack. Plusbus tickets are available.

Buses run every hour or so from Edinburgh and Glasgow via Perth and Aviemore. The main operators are Citylink , Parks of Hamilton and Megabus.

Travel from England usually involves changing in Edinburgh, but National Express and Megabus have a few through-services.

Stagecoach Bus 10 runs from Aberdeen via Huntly, Elgin, Forres and Nairn, taking four hours to Inverness. It runs every two hours M-Sa and every three hours on Sunday.

Citylink / Stagecoach Bus 919 runs from Fort William along the A82 via Spean Bridge, Laggan, Fort Augustus, Urquhart Castle and Drumnadrochit. There are four M-Sa and two on Sunday.

Stagecoach Bus 917 runs twice daily from Portree on Skye along the A82 and A87 via Broadford, Kyle of Lochalsh, Dornie, Invermoriston, Castle Urquhart and Drumnadrochit. Change at Portree for ferries from the Western Isles via Uig.

Citylink Bus 961 runs from Ullapool, ferry port for Stornoway on Lewis, twice M-Sa and once on Sunday.

There are buses at least hourly to the Black Isle: from Inverness to Invergordon and Tain (with a few continuing to Brora and Helmsdale), to Fortrose and Cromarty, and to Dingwall and Strathpeffer.

Stagecoach Highlands X99 runs twice M-Sa from Thurso and Wick via Tain to Inverness, 4 hours.

57.481 -4.225 3 Inverness bus station is in Farraline Park, a couple of blocks northwest of the railway station. The bus station has a ticket office with luggage storage, cafe and toilets.

Inverness port has freight but no passenger vessels. Cruise ships often dock at Invergordon, 20 miles north. Most visitors will be on package coach trips of the area, but you could also ride into town independently on the train in less than an hour. But with only four trains per day you need to be sure of your connections.

Caledonian Canal links the Beauly Firth through Loch Ness to Fort William and the sea at Loch Linnhe. The latter is usually well-sheltered, so small craft can easily continue to Glencoe, Oban and Mull.

Inverness is fairly small and you're unlikely to use the bus. Bus 3 runs to Culloden, and Bus 11 to the airport and the seaside town of Nairn. Bus 16 runs along the east bank of Loch Ness from Inverness to Dores, Inverfarigaig and Foyers, four times M-F and twice on Saturday.

Operators include Inverness Taxis (+44 1463 222222), A2B (+44 1463 807060), Capital (+44 1463 808080) and Inverness Premier Taxis (+44 1463 800223).

They can usually offer minibuses suitable for groups, and pick up from the airport or Invergordon cruiser terminal for day tours. They'll be fully booked when there's a major golf tournament in town.

You don't need one in town, but bike is a good way to reach Loch Ness, and the sights around Culloden. Inverness Bike Hire are based at 12A Church Street. Open daily 9AM-11PM.

• Victorian Market , in an arcade opposite the railway station, is open M-Sa 6AM-6PM.
• 57.47917 -4.22774 2 Abertarff House , 71 Church St IV1 1ES . Jun-Oct: F-M 10:30AM-5:30PM . Built in 1593, the oldest house in Inverness, now run by the National Trust for Scotland, with a small exhibition and garden. Free . ( updated Jul 2022 )

• Chapel Yard Cemetery is just off Chapel Street. Its denizens are mostly 19th-century, but the original Chapel of St Mary, part of a monastery, was 14th-century. Chapel and monastery are long gone as Cromwell carried off the masonry to build a bastion.
• St Mary's 200 yards downstream from St Andrews is the main Roman Catholic church, built in 1837, with fine stained glass windows and altar. It's not a cathedral as the RC diocese is based in Aberdeen.
• Balnain House just downstream from Greig St Bridge is a fine mansion of 1726 but only occasionally open.
• Knocknagael Boar Stone is Pictish, carved around 600 AD, showing a wild boar amidst spirals and bristles. It's been moved from the farm where it was found to the south side of the Highland Council offices on Glenurquhart Rd.
• 57.463 -4.2404 5 Inverness Botanic Gardens , Bught Lane IV3 5SS ( 1 mile S of centre off A82 ), ☏ +44 1463 701019 . Daily 10AM-4PM . Glasshouse and gardens, with a range of exotic plants, plus a cafe. Assistance dogs only. Free . ( updated Jul 2022 )

Further out

• 57.477 -4.269 6 Craig Phadrig is a forested hill of 564 ft (172 m) topped by a vitrified fort, It was built around 4th century AD and occupied to the 7th, and is probably the place where St Columba met King Bridei mac Maelchon. But at some point the fort burned so furiously that its stone was fused into glass. It's an active forestry site so you may have to work around logging.
• 57.4332 -4.3023 7 Dochgarroch Locks are where Loch Ness drains into the Caledonian Canal towards town. This north tip of Loch Ness is called Loch Dochfour but it's the same body of water.
• 57.4494 -4.1926 8 Druid Temple is more accurately a neolithic burial cairn and stone circle, rather overgrown. You may be able to access it via Druid Farm and Shop just east. A similar cairn and circle was found at Raigmore when the A9 was re-routed towards Kessock Bridge; it was moved to a nearby site which is now difficult to access amidst hospital and industrial buildings.
• Culloden , five miles east, is best known for the 1746 battlefield where Bonny Prince Charlie's Jacobite army was finally shattered. It also has the Bronze Age "Clava Cairns", and Cawdor Castle associated with Shakespeare's Macbeth .
• River Ness and Caledonian Canal stretch for eight miles between Loch Dochfour (the pool at the north end of Loch Ness) and Beauly Firth, the reach of sea just below Inverness. It's a pleasant picturesque stroll, or bike-ride if you're trying to reach the loch. Going upstream from town centre, follow either river bank up to the wooded Ness Islands. Above here, be on the west bank (passing the Botanic Gardens) to come onto the canal towpath, which is the best route upstream.
• 57.473 -4.2308 1 Eden Court Theatre , Bishops Road, IV3 5SA , ☏ +44 1463 234 234 (box office) . A theatre, arts and cinema venue. ( updated Jun 2023 )
• Vue Cinema is on the big retail park east of town.

• Football: 57.4953 -4.2168 2 Inverness Caledonian Thistle were relegated in 2024 and now play soccer in Scottish League One, the third tier. Their home ground Caledonian Stadium (capacity 7500) is off the last A9 exit before Kessock Bridge. In Feb 2000 Caley's shock 3-1 away cup victory over Celtic inspired a legendary headline in The Sun : "Super Caley Go Ballistic, Celtic Are Atrocious".
• Rugby : Highland RFC play rugby union in National League One, the amateur game's second tier in Scotland. They play at Canal Park, two miles upriver.
• Dolphin-spotting: boat trips run Apr-Oct from Inverness Marina. The main operator is Dolphin Spirit . They run trips in conventional motor boats, and Rib-rides that are wet and bouncy but cover more of the area. To see dolphins from shore, best cross to the Black Isle and stand at Chanonry Point as the tide starts to come in.
• Boat-trips on Loch Ness : Jacobite Cruises are based in Inverness and sail the north end of the loch. Others sail from Drumnadrochit and Fort Augustus .
• Look up your ancestors: Highland Archive Centre is in Bught Park near the Botanic Garden, open M Tu Th 10AM-12:30PM, 2-4:30PM.
• Golf: nearby courses are Inverness GC near Raigmore Hospital, Kings south along the river, and Loch Ness or Fairways south edge of town. Torvean has closed and is being turned over to housing.
• Great Glen Way is a long-distance hiking trail to Fort William , 73 miles (116 km).
• Inverness Music Festival is held over a week at the end of February. The next is probably 22 Feb - 3 March 2024, tbc.
• Inverness Highland Games are held in July on Bught Park. The next are probably on Sa 13 July 2024, tbc.
• Loch Ness Marathon follows the minor roads along the east side of the loch from Fort Augustus to Invernessin early October.

The town's main shopping area runs from the Eastgate Centre , a mall next to the station, through a pedestrian precinct down to the River Ness bridge. There's no limit to the number of tartan and Scottish souvenir shops you can find along the strip, plus the usual department stores and services.

The Inverness Centre is a retail park off A96 two miles east of town. It has a Vue cinema, a Pizza Express and Nando's, a Holiday Inn, and Tesco; fill up on fuel here if you're going further into the Highlands.

• 57.475 -4.2333 1 The Bakery , 72 Tomnahurich Street IV3 5DT , ☏ +44 1463 418918 . M-Sa 6AM-3PM . Popular local bakery with loaves, pies, sweet pastries, croissants and more. It's at the corner of Glenurquhart Rd, handy for the council offices, and for the B&B strip in case Mrs Macbeth's catering is parsimonious. ( updated Jul 2022 )
• Indian cuisine includes Cinnamon near Eastgate Centre, Sam's on Church St, Rajah on Post Office Lane just off Church St, Ness Majal on Academy St by the railway station, Mangrove further down that street, and Shapla by Ness Bridge.
• Heathmount Hotel half a mile east of the centre has good dining, see Sleep.
• Fig & Thistle is a bistro south side of Eastgate Centre, open W-Sa noon-3PM, 5:30-11PM.
• 57.4788 -4.2281 2 Mustard Seed , 16 Fraser Street IV1 1DW , ☏ +44 1463 220220 . Daily noon-2:30PM, 5-9PM . This sounds Indian but it's modern European fare in a former church on the riverbank. ( updated Jul 2022 )
• 57.4767 -4.2284 3 Rocpool , 1 Ness Walk IV3 5NE , ☏ +44 1463 717274 . Tu-Sa noon-2:30PM, 6-10PM . Quality Scottish food in a contemporary setting. ( updated Jul 2022 )
• Contrast Brasserie ( within Glenmoriston Town House; see § Sleep ). Daily . ( updated Jul 2022 )
• Number 27 is a small friendly restaurant at 27 Castle St serving trad Scots fare, open daily to 11PM.
• Cafe 1 , 75 Castle Street IV2 3EA , ☏ +44 1463 226200 . M Tu 3-9PM, W Th noon-2:30PM, 5-9PM, F Sa 12:30-9PM . Good place for an early evening meal, gets great reviews. ( updated Jul 2022 )
• La Tortilla Asesina , 99 Castle Street IV2 3EA , ☏ +44 1463 709809 . Daily noon-11PM . Tapas bar with rustic decor. ( updated Jul 2022 )
• 57.4788 -4.2208 4 Little Italy , 8 Stephen Brae, Stephen's St, IV2 3JN , ☏ +44 1463 712963 , [email protected] . M-Sa 11AM-10PM . Cosy family-run restaurant, mainly serving pasta and pizza, alongside antipasti sharing platters. Daily lunch specials on blackboard. Lunch mains £8-10, dinner mains £11-15, antipasti for two £29 . ( updated Jul 2022 )

• 57.47905 -4.22731 1 Hootananny , 67 Church Street IV1 1ES , ☏ +44 1463 233 651 . M-Th noon-1AM, F Sa noon-3AM, Su 4PM-midnight . Live Celtic-style music most nights. Good Thai food (in a Scottish-themed pub) and relatively cheap. ( updated Aug 2019 )
• Black Isle Bar & Rooms , 68 Church Street IV1 1EN , ☏ +44 1463 229920 . Daily 11AM-1AM . A bar with accommodation run by the Black Isle Brewery. They have around 10-15 beers on tap from their own organic brewery and some other breweries, and serve good pizza from a wood-fired oven. ( updated Aug 2019 )
• 57.382 -4.3331 2 Dores Inn , Dores, IV2 6TR ( 8 miles south of Inverness on B862 ), ☏ +44 1463 751203 . M-Sa 11AM-10:45PM, Su noon-10:45PM . On a warm summer's evening, this inn on the northeast shore of Loch Ness is a particularly pleasant place to linger over a beer. Good, traditional pub food. For customers they offer a free shuttle bus within a 10 mile radius from the pub which has to be booked at least 24 hours in advance. ( updated Aug 2019 )
• Uilebheist is a distillery and brewery on the east riverbank a quarter mile south of the castle, in the former Glen Mhor Hotel. Tours are available but the whisky only goes on sale from March 2026.
• 57.53257 -4.3027 3 Black Isle Brewery , Munlochy IV8 8NZ ( take A9 north to Black Isle ), ☏ +44 1463 811 871 . Independent brewery that produces a range of organic beers. Tours all year M-Sa 10AM-4PM, and Apr-Sep: Su 11AM-4PM . ( updated Dec 2018 )
• See Dingwall for the Singleton Distillery at Muir of Ord 15 miles west.
• Bairds Malt produce malt for the brewing industry but aren't themselves brewers. Dolphin Spirit is a disappointment if you were expecting craft gin, they go out on boats to see some overgrown fish.

The town is a commercial and local government hub so it has lots of mid-range chain hotels for business travellers, mostly round the outskirts. Glenurquhart Road, which is the A82 south towards Loch Ness, is lined with small B&Bs and guesthouses. The Inverness Guest House Association has a selection of 24 properties, all of which have been graded 3, 4 or 5 stars by Visit Scotland or the AA.

• 57.4797 -4.211 1 Inverness Youth Hostel , Victoria Drive IV2 3QB ( half a mile east of rwy station ), ☏ +44 1463 231771 . Large modern hostel open all year. Excellent facilities: internet, laundry, some small rooms en-suite. Dorm £27 ppn . ( updated Jul 2022 )
• 57.4748 -4.2251 2 Bazpackers , 4 Culduthel Road IV2 4AB ( foot of lane to castle ), ☏ +44 1463 717663 . Clean informal hostel in a Victorian house, open all year. There's also a self-catering apartment. Dorm £44 ppn . ( updated Jul 2022 )
• Inverness Student Hotel is just south of Bazpackers.
• 57.4651 -4.2387 3 Bught Park , Bught Lane IV3 5SR ( just off A82 ), ☏ +44 1463 236920 . Camping and caravan site open Easter to mid-Sep. It is a pleasant 20-min walk along the river to town centre. Camping £20 ppn, caravan pitch £22 . ( updated Jul 2022 )
• Bunchrew Caravan Park is open Mar-Sept, double tent £13, caravan £25. It's 3 miles west of town on A862, next to upmarket Bunchrew House Hotel.
• Royal Highland Hotel , 18 Station Square IV1 1LG ( At railway station ), ☏ +44 1463 231926 , [email protected] . Mid-range hotel opened in 1856 and still feels like a trad Highland railway hotel. Some street noise, but decent dining and service. B&B double £90 . ( updated Jul 2022 )
• 57.4547 -4.2202 4 Dunhallin House , 164 Culduthel Road IV2 4BH ( 1½ miles S of centre ), ☏ +44 1463 220824 , [email protected] . Comfortable accommodation in a quiet setting, no children. The owners are friendly and helpful. B&B double £90 . ( updated Jul 2022 )
• Moyness House is a restful small B&B in Bruce Gardens off A82, open Feb-Dec.
• Park Guest House , 51 Glenurquhart Road IV3 5PB ( A82, 100 yards north of Avalon ), ☏ +44 1463 231858 . Hospitable trad B&B in a substantial ivy-clad Victorian villa. B&B double £80 . ( updated Jul 2022 )
• 57.468 -4.2384 5 Avalon Guest House , 79 Glenurquhart Road IV3 5PB ( a mile south of centre on A82 ), ☏ +44 1463 239075 . The rooms are beautiful and the owners are friendly and helpful. B&B double £110 . ( updated Jul 2022 )
• 57.4783 -4.2266 6 Mercure Inverness Hotel , Church Street IV1 1DX , ☏ +44 1463 548111 , [email protected] . Reliable mid-range chain hotel, very central, pricy for what you get. Doubles (room only) from £150 . ( updated Jul 2022 )
• 57.4757 -4.2171 7 Heathmount Hotel , Kingsmills Road IV2 3JU , ☏ +44 1463 235877 . Pleasant hotel with restaurant and bar half a mile east of town centre. B&B double £120 . ( updated Jul 2022 )
• Mid-price chains: Premier Inn is on Huntly St on the west bank of the river and another just west of the canal bridge on A82. Best Western is on Ardross Terrace just south of Ness Bridge, Travelodge is by Fairways Golf Course on the south edge of town, Jury's Inn is at the junction of A9 and A96 on the northeast edge of town, and Holiday Inn Express is by the retail park on A96 two miles east of town.

• 57.4697 -4.2311 8 Ness Walk Hotel , 12 Ness Walk IV3 5SQ , ☏ +44 1463 215215 . Glowing reviews for this riverside hotel in a 19th-century mansion. B&B double £140 . ( updated Dec 2022 )
• 57.4728 -4.2273 9 Glenmoriston Town House , 20 Ness Bank IV2 4SF , ☏ +44 1463 223777 . Smart riverside hotel with brasserie. B&B double £130 . ( updated Jul 2022 )
• 57.4825 -4.3006 10 Bunchrew House , Bunchrew IV3 8TA ( 3 miles west of city off A862 ), ☏ +44 1463 234917 . Wonderful country house hotel: bun craobh means "near the tree", which doesn't much assist motorists. The original house of 1505 was tiny, then the present mansion was built in 1621 in baronial style. In 1745 its owners the Forbes backed the government against Bonnie Prince Charlie but received scant thanks and went bust. A happier development in the 19th century was that the bone manure factory closed down. The house passed to politician Sir Malcolm Rifkin (b 1946) who converted it into a hotel in 1986. It earns top scores from guests and is often a wedding venue. B&B double £200 . ( updated Jul 2022 )
• 57.4729 -4.2071 11 Kingsmills Hotel , Culcabock Rd IV2 3LP ( a mile east of centre ), ☏ +44 1463 237166 . Upscale hotel by the golf course, great reviews for comfort and service. B&B double £150 . ( updated Jul 2022 )

As of July 2022, the town has 5G from EE and Three, and 4G from O2 and Vodafone. There's good mobile coverage on the approach roads.

• Inverness Library , Farraline Park IV1 1NH ( behind bus station ), ☏ +44 1463 236463 . M Tu F 9AM-6:30PM, W 10AM-6:30PM, Th 9AM-8PM, Sa 9AM-5PM . Offers Internet access. ( updated Aug 2019 )
• Culloden is best known for the battlefield where Bonny Prince Charlie's forces were shattered in 1746. It also has the Clava Cairns, a Bronze Age burial site.
• Nairn is the closest beach resort. Nearby is the extensive, well-preserved Fort George.
• Loch Ness starts 8 miles south, and stretches for 23 miles. The main road and facilities are along the west bank, with Drumnadrochit the largest centre.
• Cairngorms National Park covers a wide tract of highland country. The most accessible part from Inverness is Cairngorm mountain itself above Aviemore , a ski resort with a funicular railway.
• Fort William is close to Ben Nevis, the UK's highest mountain, and to Nevis Range ski and mountain resort.
• North are the wilds of Ross and Cromarty and Caithness and Sutherland . If you get all the way to Thurso you can take a ferry to the Orkneys, and from there to Shetland.
• North Coast 500 is a 500-mile (800-km) road circuit of those regions, and Inverness is the usual start and finish point.

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Bringing together everything that's great About Inverness

Inverness in the Highlands

Inverness in Scotland is known as the 'Highland Capital', it still retains its market town feel to it, dating back to its early development. Today tourism is a very important part of the economy.

Inverness is in the north of Scotland and is one of the smallest cities in Scotland with some 55,000 people. The City is growing fast due to Inverness airport and its location in the Highlands.

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Inverness Shops offer a large choice, ideal for that Inverness shopping trip where you will find large multi-national outlets through to the small independent owner shops and much more ...

The Inverness Bars and Pubs provide a vibrant part of the city many now have excellent pub grub food as well as entertainment and live music every night of the week....

Inverness offers a huge choice of things to do from ancient castles, highland clans, the Caledonian Canal, highland museums, 4,000 year old burial cairns, to Loch Ness and the world famous monster....

Plan Your Journey Here

Inverness is a great base to tour the Highlands and Islands. It has great road access via the main arterial route to Scotland the A9.

Inverness has great links by bus to Edinburgh, Glasgow, Dundee, Perth and Aberdeen. There are also tours direct from here.

Inverness Train Station, right in the middle of the town. It has it's own car park with 60 spaces and it has cycle storage.

An International Airport, with all the facilities you would expect, from Shopping and catering to car parking. Open Mon-Sun.

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New York tourist admits whisky-fuelled assault in Inverness city centre

An American tourist's first taste of Scotch whisky is likely to be his last after he attacked his girlfriend in Inverness city centre.

Sheriff Gary Aitken was told that 29-year-old Casey Cameron, of Long Beach, New York had been socialising all evening on June 12 this year with other family members.

Fiscal depute Robert Weir said that the holidaymakers had a disagreement apparently over a suggestion she had been flirting with someone during the evening.

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Cameron admitted assault by seizing her by the arms, and pushing and pulling her on the body in Baron Taylor's Street just after midnight.

Police were called after the incident on June 13 was filmed on CCTV and Cameron spent most of the night in the cells to appear at Inverness Sheriff Court the following day.

Mr Weir said that Cameron's partner did not want to make a statement to police about the offence but said "it was out of character for him".

Defence solicitor David Patterson told the court: "It was a pretty good holiday up until now and they were enjoying the Scottish food and scenery.

"But he should have stayed well away from whisky. It was the first - and last - time he had drank it.

"He can't remember a thing about this. It was not his finest moment.

"The pair have been in a relationship for four years and wish to reconcile. They return to the USA on Sunday."

Sheriff Aitken fined Cameron £640 and ordered him to pay it before he left the country.

He added: "I trust this will be a lesson for you about the taking of strong drink that you are not used to."

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Inverness iCentre

Inverness iCentre is located halfway along the pedestrianised High Street in the centre of Inverness, a 5-10 minute walk from both the bus and railway stations as well as most major public car parks. We can help you with inspiring places to visit, not to be missed local events, the best places to eat, the most scenic routes, detailed maps, guidebooks and much more. With Inverness being the capital of the Highlands, we’re well equipped to help you with your onward journey or indeed to help you make the most of your journey home through the rest of Scotland. In addition to our in-person service, we are also happy to answer queries by telephone call and e-mail.

Your one-stop shop for information on activities and attractions within Inverness and across the Highlands, we are located a short distance from the iconic Inverness Castle within the very heart of the City.

Our friendly team of knowledgeable staff can provide you with information and advice that will help you make the most of your time during your visit to Inverness – whether you have days or hours to spend here, we want to help you experience some of what makes us so unique.

In addition to information, we provide a range of services including assistance with booking day trips to Skye and the Highlands, cruises on Loch Ness and can offer advice on the many other attractions this beautiful part of the world has to offer as well as not to be missed local events

Our retail range covers walking and guidebooks, maps, souvenirs and a range of craft items from our Shop Local suppliers. We also stock the official North Coast 500 range of merchandise.

We look forward to welcoming you to start planning your Highland Adventure!

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Reflecting on the times of travel and success for Inverness United’s young footballers

Highland capital kids gained life lessons in sport playing in competitions in Canada, the USA, Holland, Denmark, Germany and Italy.

Happy memories for many young footballers was their summer international travels with a youth team called Inverness United.

And the monthly Football Memories group at Caley Thistle have been reflecting on the club’s history and adventures, which Am Baile – the Highland history and culture resource – is also highlighting this week.

Inverness United, run by a dedicated group of coaches and volunteers, had a flair for fundraising.

Between 1987 and 2011 more than 500 teenagers benefited from the experience of taking part in major tournaments abroad – beginning in Canada and moving on to the USA, Holland, Denmark, Germany and Italy. They played more than 200 games and scored 500 goals along the way.

Caley FC had taken teams abroad from 1980, but Inverness United were established in 1987 to involve a wider group of young players in the town as well as from Nairn and the Spey Valley.

Toronto trips got the ball rolling

Their first two trips – 1987 and 1991 – were to Toronto in Canada to take part in the Robbie International Soccer tournament, which had been established in 1967 as a fundraiser for cystic fibrosis charities.

By 1991, the cost of organising the trip had risen to £32,000, which prompted the organising committee to consider European international competitions.

Parents/guardians were asked to make a contribution and players were set individual fundraising targets while group fund-raising involved attracting sponsorship and organising race nights, dinners and a major five-a-side tournament at Inverness Ice Rink.

While abroad, the coaches and volunteers worked flat out to ensure the boys were fed, housed, ferried to games and enjoyed visits to various large shopping malls and leisure attractions.

Successful games abroad for youths

Gordon Ledingham was invited to join the organising committee in 1996 and he was to become their chairman.

He said: “These were great experiences for the young players, not only to travel abroad, but to compete in elite international tournaments.

“They provided lifetime memories for many of the players, who knew not to step out of line as they were ambassadors for their city.

“Make no mistake, we were there to win and we returned on a number of occasions with our age group trophy.

“We won tournaments in Limsfjord, Denmark in 1997 and 1999 and the Holland Cup in 1998 when former Clach manager Jordan MacDonald scored the winning goal.”

Lessons learned – and now in China

The coaches were John Beaton, Jackie Sutherland, Gary Davidson, Geordo Thomson, Terry Curtis and Dougie Mackenzie and committee members included Bob Hendry, Drew Logie, Fred Driver, John Douglas, Brian Mackay, Alex Howie and Kevin Nicol.

While United organised their last trip in 2011, Clachnacuddin and teams representing the Inverness Street League have continued the fine tradition of taking part in international tournaments on the continent.

Gordon Ledingham was joined by John Douglas at a recent meeting of the ICT Football Memories Group to tell their story.

Gordon concluded the session by reading an email from a player who benefited from being part of Inverness United.

Matty MacInnes who now lives in Shanghai, China, said: “I’ve been living abroad for 16 years now and it is largely thanks to Inverness United that I was exposed to international travel and sport in different countries.

“Inverness United created opportunities for boys to travel to other countries and to experience how football can transcend languages and cultures.

“I am forever grateful for the work the many coaches and volunteers put into providing such experiences.

“I have memories of playing in Holland, Denmark and the United States that will remain with me forever.

“While I don’t remember all the scores from the games, I learned lifelong lessons about being a good team-mate and a good person that have shaped who I am today.”

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