Updated 27/11/2024
Welcome to Inverness, the vibrant heart of the Scottish Highlands! This charming city offers a delightful mix of history, culture and stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re hunting for Nessie, exploring ancient castles or enjoying a drop of whisky, Inverness has something for everyone.
Exploring Inverness
Inverness Castle Start your adventure at Inverness Castle, perched on a hill overlooking the River Ness. While the castle itself isn’t open to the public, the grounds offer fantastic views of the city and the river. It’s a perfect spot for a picnic or a leisurely walk.
Inverness Museum and Art Gallery Dive into the local history at the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery. You’ll find exhibits on the Picts, the Jacobite uprisings, and more. The museum also features contemporary art from local artists, giving you a taste of Highland creativity.
Stroll Along the River Ness Take a walk along the scenic River Ness. The riverside paths are perfect for a peaceful afternoon. You can cross the charming suspension bridges and visit the Ness Islands, a lovely spot for nature lovers. Keep an eye out for wildlife – you might even spot an otter!
Eden Court Theatre If you’re in the mood for some entertainment, check out what’s on at the Eden Court Theatre. From plays and concerts to films and dance performances, there’s always something happening. It’s a great way to spend an evening after a day of exploring!
Day Trips from Inverness
Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle No visit to Inverness is complete without a trip to Loch Ness. Take a boat tour and keep your eyes peeled for the elusive Loch Ness Monster. Visit the ruins of Urquhart Castle, perched on the shores of the loch. The castle offers stunning views and a glimpse into Scotland’s past. Loch Ness & Urquhart Castle Tour From Inverness on Viator
Culloden Battlefield Just a short drive from Inverness, you’ll find Culloden Battlefield, the site of the last battle fought on British soil. The visitor centre offers an immersive experience with exhibits, films and a guided tour of the battlefield. It’s a moving and educational visit that brings history to life.
Glen Affric For nature lovers, a day trip to Glen Affric is a must. Often described as the most beautiful glen in Scotland, Glen Affric boasts ancient Caledonian pine forests, sparkling lochs and rugged mountains. It’s a hiker’s paradise with trails for all levels. Don’t forget your camera – the scenery is breathtaking!
Both Glen Affric & Culloden Battlefield can be done in one trip to save time! Glen Affric & Culloden Tour on Viator
Isle of Skye & Fairy Pools A day trip to the Isle of Skye and Fairy Pools from Inverness is magical! Explore stunning landscapes, dip your toes in crystal-clear pools, and feel like a fairy in a fantasy land. Don’t forget your camera – it’s pure enchantment! Isle of Sky & Fairy Pools Day Trip From Inverness on Viator
Hogwarts Express and Scenic Highlands Day Tour Hop aboard the iconic Jacobite Steam Train (Hogwarts Express!) and journey through breathtaking Highland landscapes. It’s pure magic for Potter fans and nature lovers alike! Hogwarts Express and Scenic Highlands Day Tour on Viator
3-Day Orkney Islands Tour from Inverness Explore ancient ruins, wild coastlines and unique island culture. History buffs and adventure seekers will love this unforgettable escape to Scotland’s stunning northern isles. 3-Day Orkney Islands Tour on Viator
Fun Things to Do
Whisky Tasting For Whisky lovers, you can’t visit the Highlands without sampling some whisky. Take a tour of a local distillery like Tomatin Distillery. Learn about the whisky-making process and enjoy a tasting session! Speyside Whisky Trails on Viator
Highland Games If you’re visiting during the summer, try to catch a Highland Games event. These traditional Scottish gatherings feature athletic competitions, music, dancing and plenty of tartan. It’s a fun and lively way to experience Scottish culture and cheer on the competitors.
Surrounding Areas to Visit
The Black Isle Just across the Kessock Bridge from Inverness lies the Black Isle. Despite its name, it’s not an island but a peninsula with beautiful countryside, charming villages and plenty of wildlife. Visit the village of Cromarty, known for its historic buildings and dolphin-spotting opportunities in the Moray Firth.
Fort George Fort George is an impressive 18th-century fortress located near Inverness. It was built after the Battle of Culloden to suppress any further Jacobite risings. Today, it’s a fascinating museum with exhibits on military history, stunning views of the Moray Firth and the chance to spot dolphins from the embankments.
Cairngorms National Park A bit further afield, but well worth the trip, is the Cairngorms National Park. This vast park offers a wide range of outdoor activities, from hiking and mountain biking to skiing in the winter. The park is also home to diverse wildlife, including red deer, golden eagles and even wildcats! Cairngorms & Whiskey Day Tour on Viator
There are plenty of beautiful places to stay in Inverness, consider using Travelodge, Sykes Holiday Cottages or LateRooms to find the perfect place for you!
Sykes Holiday Cottages, Inverness
Practical Tips for Your Inverness Adventure
Pack Layers: The weather in the Highlands can be unpredictable. Bring layers so you’re prepared for anything.
Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, especially if you explore the surrounding nature trails.
Bring a Camera: From historic sites to stunning landscapes, you’ll want to capture the beauty of Inverness and its surroundings.
Inverness is a gem of the Scottish Highlands, offering a blend of history, culture and natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, hunting for Nessie or just enjoying the friendly Scottish hospitality, you’re sure to have a memorable adventure!
