Inverness, often regarded as one of the UK’s beautiful cities, ought to be high on your list of Scotland travel destinations. Check out our selection of the best things to do in Inverness to discover more about this stunning Scottish city.
1. Check out mighty Fort George
Fort George is located in the Firth of Forth’s narrowest point, 20 minutes’ drive east of central Inverness. It served as a reminder to the restless Scots that London and the English monarchy were firmly in command by being constructed soon after the Scots’ defeat at the Battle of Culloden in 1746.
It is about a kilometer long and is the largest artillery fortification in the British Isles. Thanks to its unusual shape, it enables its defenders to fire their weapons pretty much in any direction an enemy might approach. Many of these original weapons, including an astonishing collection of cannons and other armaments like muskets, pikes, and swords, can still be shown here.
Other features of a visit include exhibitions that give visitors a glimpse into the barracks, armory and other locations where common soldiers lived at the time. There is a visitor center with a gift store as well as a museum devoted to the Queen’s Own Highlanders.
2. Walk along the Banks of River Ness and Visit the Ness Islands
A must-do is to stroll around the lovely riverbank area of Inverness. Hardcore walkers will want to take on the approximately 12-kilometer trip from downtown Inverness to the east bank of Loch Ness and pick up the Loch Ness 360° Trail, a circular route that encompasses the entire lake, but those with less time or stamina can still have a blast staying within the city limits.
The Ness Walk is an easy three-kilometer loop that can be completed in about two hours. It starts in the city center and travels along both banks of the river. You can see wildlife, pay your respects at the Inverness War Memorial, and take in the numerous gardens that flank the path while traveling.
It’s also fun to explore the Ness Islands, a group of tiny islands in the middle of the river. The islands are easily reached by a number of lovely pedestrian bridges from the Victorian era, and they’re a terrific location to relax and have a picnic by the river. You should also cross the Greig Street Bridge, constructed in 1880 and offers beautiful views of the city and river.
3. Visit Inverness Castle
You should still put Inverness Castle on your list of sites to visit in Inverness, even though it’s now only partially accessible to the public. It was constructed from local sandstone, stands over the River Ness, and has excellent grounds that are well worth visiting.
There is also a fantastic vantage point that offers views of the city and the river. For those who want a fantastic photo to take home with them, it’s definitely worth the walk up some hard stairs.
In your journal, make a note to visit the castle again in the future. The castle will be given new life as part of a multi-million dollar attraction called “The Spirit of the Highlands,” which will highlight the area’s cultural legacy and natural splendor.
4. Visit the Inverness Botanic Gardens to Discover a World of Plants
Inverness Botanic Gardens walking has established itself as another well-liked activity in the Capital of the Highlands since its opening in 1993. The gardens can also be explored as part of a walk along the network of trails that line the River Ness because they are only a short distance from the Ness Islands.
While the park’s glasshouses are open year-round, the numerous vibrant flowerbeds are highlights of a visit in the spring and summer. These indoor plant collections contain examples from both desert and tropical rainforests.
On the property, there is also a sizable fish pond and a charming waterfall feature. There are guided tours available, but they require reservations.
5. Enjoy culture vultures and art enthusiasts at Inverness Museum and Art Gallery
There are lots of enjoyable things to do in Inverness for culture vultures and art enthusiasts. You should put the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery on your schedule if that describes you.
This intriguing, freshly refurbished building, which is close to Inverness Castle, combines displays of significant works of Scottish Highlands-related art with local history exhibits. A collection of portraits of the Stuart family, including one of Bonnie Prince Charlie that Oliver Cromwell famously had hanging upside down as an insult, are among the significant paintings on show.
6. Explore St. Andrew’s Cathedral
St. Andrew’s Cathedral is another must-see Inverness destination that is near the castle. Its riverfront location and native red stone construction surely make it one of the nicest churches in Scotland. The church was built in 1869 and is a relatively recent addition to the city’s wide list of beautiful buildings to visit.
It is noted for its beautiful stained-glass windows, as well as its interior decor and stone sculptures, making it the most northern Anglican cathedral in Britain. Additionally, there is a fantastic café there, and there is a gift shop there as well.
Watch out for the cathedral’s bells, which are regarded to be among the best in Scotland and can be heard all around the city.
7. Caledonian Canal
The Caledonian Canal finished in 1849, is still regarded as one of Scotland’s most important technical achievements. In actuality, the canal utilizes Loch Ness and other natural waterways for around 60% of its approximately 100-kilometer path, which follows the Caledonian fault line from Fort William in the west all the way to Inverness.
Despite being constructed to save cargo traffic from having to navigate past Scotland’s frequently stormy and treacherous northern coast, the canal is currently primarily used by leisure ships. Sitting beside the canal or one of its 29 locks and watching the boats go by is almost as entertaining as taking a multi-day holiday cruise or a shorter sightseeing trip.
8. Eden Court Theatre
Those looking for some evening entertainment should definitely stop by the Eden Court Theatre. Its development included significant 19th-century structures, including a former palace and a church, making it the largest such complex in Scotland. It features two cutting-edge theaters, dance studios, and cinemas.
It regularly hosts professional theatre productions, concerts of classical music, as well as appearances by traveling rock and pop artists. Additionally, a wide range of workshops is offered. There is a café on the property.
9. Visit the Culloden Viaduct and the Culloden Battlefield
The small but historically significant community of Culloden is only ten minutes by vehicle east of Inverness. The Stuart clan’s effort to retake the Scottish throne was defeated in this conflict, which took place in 1746 and involved Scots and English soldiers.
Allow at least a few hours to view everything because the visitor center’s cutting-edge exhibits and movies, coupled with historically accurate structures, convey the narrative in exquisite detail. Even though there is a lot of walking to be done, it will be well worth it to learn more about this significant period in Scotland’s history.
After that, make a brief diversion to see the magnificent Culloden Viaduct. It was constructed in 1898 and is also known as the Nairn Viaduct. With 29 spans, it is the longest of its kind in the nation. The viaduct can’t be walked on because it’s still in use, but you can get some fantastic pictures of it from the side of the road.
10. Visit Abertarff House, Inverness’s oldest structure
Abertarff House, which is still standing on Church Street and was constructed in 1593, is renowned for being Inverness’s oldest structure. This historic mansion, which is now a National Trust property, is immaculately kept and offers a glimpse into life during the Jacobite Revolution.
Details about previous owners are revealed in fascinating displays, and the on-site café will tempt you to stay a little longer. For information about guided walking tours around the most important historic sites in Inverness, see their official website. Free entry is offered.
11. Visit the Victorian Market and buy
Take a break and treat yourself to the most distinctive shopping experience in the city after all that exploring Inverness.
The Victorian Market, an indoor shopping arcade built in 1890, is home to a variety of privately owned retail businesses, some of which sell one-of-a-kind handmade gifts, crafts, and artwork. There are a lot of dining options around as well.
