Inverness

Your Ultimate Guide to Exploring Inverness:

Inverness, the capital of the Highlands, is a vibrant city with a rich history and stunning natural beauty surrounding it. This guide will help you navigate all the wonders Inverness has to offer!

Getting There:

  • By Air: Inverness Airport (INV) offers direct flights from various UK airports and some international destinations. It’s located just 8 miles east of the city, with regular flights connecting to major cities like London, Amsterdam, and Dublin.
  • By Train: The Highland Main Line connects Inverness to Edinburgh, Glasgow, and other parts of Scotland. While it might not be a direct flight from your location, train travel is a scenic way to arrive in Inverness.

Things to Know Before You Go:

  • Best Time to Visit: Inverness enjoys a relatively mild climate for its northern location. The best time to visit depends on your preferences. Summer (June-August) offers the warmest weather and long daylight hours, perfect for exploring Loch Ness and the surrounding countryside. If you’re looking for quieter times and don’t mind cooler temperatures, spring and autumn are excellent choices.
  • Currency: The currency in Inverness is the pound sterling (£), just like the rest of the UK.

What to Expect:

  • Stunning Scenery: Inverness is known as the “Capital of the Highlands” for a reason! Situated on the edge of the majestic Scottish Highlands, it offers breathtaking views and access to incredible landscapes.
  • Rich History and Culture: From ancient castles to museums showcasing Highland history, culture, and art, you’ll find plenty to explore in Inverness.

Must-See Attractions:

  • Loch Ness: No trip to Inverness is complete without a visit to the legendary Loch Ness. Take a boat tour to search for Nessie, explore Urquhart Castle, or simply drive along the scenic shores and enjoy the stunning views.
  • Culloden Battlefield: Immerse yourself in the history of the Jacobite Risings at this poignant site.

Things To Do in Inverness:

  • Explore the History of the Jacobite Risings: The Culloden Battlefield Visitor Centre is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning about the 1746 Battle of Culloden and its significance in Scottish history.

  • Visit Inverness Castle: Located on a hill overlooking the city, Inverness Castle offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into the past. You can climb the tower for panoramic vistas or explore the history of the castle itself through tours and exhibits.

  • Explore the Highlands: Take advantage of Inverness’ location as a gateway to the stunning Scottish Highlands.

    • Visit the Cairngorms National Park, a short drive away, for hiking, biking, and wildlife watching.
    • Explore the historic ruins of Urquhart Castle overlooking Loch Ness.
    • Drive along the North Coast 500, a scenic route that passes through some of the most beautiful parts of Scotland.

  • Discover the Scottish Highlands:

    • Visit the Culloden Battlefield: This site commemorates the final battle of the Jacobite Rising, and is a sobering reminder of the struggles for power in Scotland’s past.

  • Explore Loch Ness by Boat: Take a boat tour on Loch Ness to enjoy the beauty of the loch and potentially catch a glimpse of Nessie.

  • Wander the City Centre: Inverness has a charming and lively city centre with plenty of shops, cafes, restaurants and historic buildings.

  • Experience the Highland Games: If you’re visiting during the summer months, be sure to catch some of the action at a traditional Highland Games event, a celebration of Scottish culture and athleticism.

Explore Loch Ness by Boat:

  • Loch Ness Cruises: Enjoy a scenic cruise on the loch with stunning views of Urquhart Castle and the surrounding scenery.
  • Jacobite Cruises: Experience the beauty of Loch Ness from the water and learn about its history and legendary monster.

Enjoy the Outdoors:

  • Explore the Ness Islands: These picturesque islands in the middle of the River Ness offer a tranquil escape with walking paths, gardens, and even boat rides.
  • Visit the Culloden Battlefield: Explore the historic site where the Battle of Culloden took place, learn about the Jacobite Rising, and visit the battlefield museum.

History and Culture:

  • Culloden Battlefield Visitor Centre: Discover the history of the Jacobites through interactive exhibits, historical artifacts, and captivating stories.
  • Inverness Museum and Art Gallery: Explore a wide range of artefacts from local history to geology of the Highlands.

Accommodation:

  • Hotels: Inverness offers a variety of hotels, from budget-friendly options to luxurious accommodations near Loch Ness.

  • Bed and Breakfasts: Enjoy a warm Scottish welcome and enjoy a traditional breakfast experience at one of the many charming B&Bs in the city.

  • Self-Catering Cottages: For a more immersive experience, consider staying in a self-catering cottage for your visit to Inverness.

Where To Stay:

  • Budget:

    • Youth Hostels: Ideal for solo travelers and groups, hostels offer affordable dorm and private rooms with basic amenities.
    • Guesthouses and Hotels: Choose from cozy guesthouses in the city center or luxurious hotels with breathtaking views of Loch Ness.

  • Mid-Range:

    • Holiday Apartments: Enjoy the comfort of a home away from home with self-catering facilities, allowing you to prepare meals and explore at your own pace.
    • Boutique Hotels: Experience a unique stay in one of Inverness’s charming boutique hotels.

Food and Drink:

  • The Mustard Seed Restaurant: Savor contemporary Scottish cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.

  • Rocpool Reserve: This restaurant offers an intimate and luxurious dining experience.

  • The Castle Tavern: Indulge in traditional pub fare and a wide selection of locally brewed beers.

  • Fish & Chips by the River: Enjoy this classic dish at a nearby chippy.

Accommodation Options:

  • The Glenmoriston Townhouse Hotel: This hotel offers a luxurious stay with stunning views, located near the shores of Loch Ness.

  • Inverness Castle (ruin): While not offering accommodations anymore, it’s still worth mentioning this historical landmark for its significance and beauty.

  • Local Markets: Explore the vibrant atmosphere and fresh local produce at Inverness Market or the Victorian Market, both offering a variety of food stalls and restaurants.

  • Restaurants:

    • The Restaurant: Experience fine dining with a focus on Scottish cuisine.

  • Cafe 1893: Enjoy delicious brunch options in this charming cafe named after the year Inverness was founded.

  • Inverness Brew & Grill: Savor their menu with locally sourced ingredients, including fresh seafood and steak.

Enjoy the Local Culture:

  • Inverness Museum and Art Gallery: Discover the fascinating history of the region through interactive exhibits and a range of artifacts.

  • Eden Court Theatre: Experience live theatre performances, from plays to musicals.

Things To Consider:

  • Weather: Be prepared for all types of weather, even in summer.
  • Budget: Inverness offers accommodations for every budget.
  • Seasonality: Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring/autumn) for a quieter experience and lower prices.

Booking:

  • Book early: Especially if you are traveling during peak season (April-October).

  • Consider transportation:

  • Inverness has public transport options, but driving or renting a car is the best way to explore the surrounding areas.

  • If using public transport, look for accommodation near bus stops for easier access to attractions outside the city.

  • Look into availability: Accommodation can book up quickly during peak season.

  • Check reviews: Before booking, always read online reviews to get a sense of other travelers’ experiences.

  • Budget-friendly options: Inverness has many budget-friendly B&Bs and guest houses.

Things To Do:

  • Visit the museums and galleries:

Learn about the region’s history and culture at the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery, which offers exhibits on the history of the Highlands, local archaeology, and even a glimpse into the world of Nessie legends.

  • Explore the Scottish Highlands: Enjoy the stunning scenery of the Scottish Highlands with a visit to Loch Ness and its legendary monster.
  • Discover nature: Visit the Culloden Battlefield.

Food and Drink (continued):

  • The Inverness Brew & Grill: Enjoy delicious pub fare and local brews.

  • Local delicacies: Sample traditional Scottish cuisine at local markets like the ones in Inverness or try a bite of the famous haggis.

  • Seafood: Experience fresh seafood from the nearby coast.

Culture and History:

  • Consider the culture and history:

The Culloden Battlefield, with its somber history and breathtaking views, is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning about the Jacobite Rising.

  • Highland Culture: Visit historical sites like the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery to discover more about the history of Inverness and the culture of the region

For a truly immersive experience:

  • Book a self-catering cottage: This is a great way to enjoy the local life.
  • Explore the Cairngorms National Park: Enjoy the natural beauty of the area.**

Enjoy the experience!