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Things to Do in Inverness

Activities To Do In Inverness

Spend a delightful day in the Highlands and discover the country’s amazing attractions, rich history, and picturesque surroundings with some of the most sought-after things to do in Inverness.Embark on an all-encompassing sightseeing bus tour that will take you through some of the most iconic locales in the city. If you prefer exploring the area on foot, simply wear your walking shoes and set off along its splendid river banks. Take the water route if you so please, and head to Loch Ness where you can look for the elusive Nessie or wander through Urquhart Castle, one of the most renowned Scottish ruins. From great museums and galleries to exquisite shopping and dining experiences, the city has no dearth of fun things to do here.

The northernmost city in the United Kingdom, Inverness is also known as the capital of the Highlands. It is an ideal destination if you wish to dig deep into some of Scotland’s most turbulent periods of history such as the famous Jacobite Risings. The Culloden Battlefield as well as the mighty Fort George are the best places for this. Enjoy the scenic beauty That the city has to offer by visiting Loch Ness and the Ness Island and revisit the days gone by at Inverness Museum and the Clava Cairns. You can also revisit the battlegrounds where Britain fought its last fight at Culloden during your visit to Inverness.

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Loch Ness And Urquhart Castle

When it comes to places to visit in Inverness, you can get a chance to travel back 1000 years and immerse yourself in history. Head over to the Urquhart castle ruins, which are one of the largest ruins in Scotland, and enjoy the most scenic spot to view Loch Ness.

Culloden Battlefield

Visit one of the top tourist attractions in Inverness, the Culloden Battlefield, which is where the Battle of Culloden took place on 16th April 1746. The Battle is known to be completed in just 40 minutes with a defeat of the Jacobites. The Battle was between 5000 Jacobites and 9000 Hanoverian Government Troops and it is said that 1250 Jacobites died at the battles and 376 soldiers were taken as prisoners.

Clava Cairns

Just Six miles from Inverness, the Clava Cairns is known to be a mysterious sight with an amazing collection of standings stones, and stone circles that were used as gravesites in Scotland. The site has magnificent remains of an ancient cemetery, set on a terrace above the River Nairn. The Clava Cairns are known to be about 4,000 years old and were built to bury the dead.

Fort George

Known as the mightiest artillery fortification in Britain, Fort George is one of the best places to visit in Inverness. You can have an amazing look at all the garrison buildings, artillery defenses, and also a collection of weapons from 18th-century military life.You can get a close look of the life of the military soldiers in the 18th century and have a chance to look at the weapons they used in their battles.

Inverness Castle

One of the top tourist places to visit in Inverness is the Inverness castle which is located on a beautiful cliff overlooking the beautiful River Ness. It is known that the castle was built by Malcolm - Máel Coluim III of Scotland who destroyed the previous castle located on the cliff.

Inverness Museum & Art Gallery
River Ness & Ness Islands

One of the most beautiful places to see in Inverness is the Ness island which is a collection of natural islands in the middle of the River ness. The Islands are connected by the river banks and have beautiful Victorian footbridges.

Inverness Cathedral

Also known as the Cathedral Church of Saint Andrew, the Cathedral was opened in the year 1583 just opposite the River Ness and is one of the top tourist places to visit in inverness. This beautiful Cathedral is built in Red Tarradale Stone and has five bays divided by Peterhead granite.

St. Stephen's Church

One of the top places to visit in Inverness, the St. Stephen's Church is known to have a great tradition of caring for the congregation and the community and for the people around the world. The St. Stephen's Church is known to support Highland food bank, Christian Aid, and also the Fairtrade church.

North Coast 500

The North Coast 500 is a scenic path on the Scotland North Coast. Starting and ending at the Inverness Caste, this 830 Km long route is one of most beautiful tourist places to visit in Inverness. This route was originally launched in 2015 to link the main attractions of North Highlands in Scotland.

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Inverness Things To Do FAQs

Which are the best things to do in Inverness?

1. Explore Loch Ness and Urquhart CastleOne of the best things to do near Inverness is to visit this picturesque spot shrouded in mystery and intrigue. Get enchanted by fascinating tales of monsters and the supernatural that are said to reside underneath the vast expanses of Loch Ness. Witness the most voluminous lake in the United Kingdom as the loch is also believed to contain more water than all the lakes of England and Wales put together. Head to one of the most iconic ruins of Scotland, the Urquhart Castle which lies on the western shore of the loch and offers breathtaking views of the water in the backdrop.

2. Revisit history at Culloden Battlefield
Explore the site that has stood witness to some of the most bloody battles fought on British soil, particularly the harrowing final Jacobite Rising. The mid-eighteenth century had seen the Rising come to its peak when supporters of the Stuart monarchy took on the Duke of Cumberland's government troops and had over 1,500 slain soldiers by the end of an hour. Head to the Culloden Visiting Center near the battlefield that has carefully preserved some of the most stimulating and sensitive artifacts from both parties embroiled in the fight. Learning more about the background of the conflict with the help of interactive displays here is certainly one of the most meaningful things to do in Inverness. 

3. Step back in time at Clava Cairns
This nicely kept Bronze Age cemetery complex amid a scenic setting is considered to be one of the best things to do in Inverness. The well-preserved cemetery comprises mostly passage graves, curb cairns, ring cairns, and standing stones. This site holds a lot of significance as it dates back to almost 4,000 years and is an instance of the most distant history of the Scottish Highlands. Archaeologists have found evidence that the cemetery was used in two phases, around 2000 BC and again about a thousand years later. Burials were placed in cairns here that are believed to have been built with material from demolished houses.

4. Marvel at the mighty Fort George
Witnessing this mighty stronghold which is a glittering example of Britain’s artillery fortification, tops the list of the best things to do in Inverness. The fort was erected by King George II after the defeat of Bonnie Prince Charlie at the Battle of Culloden in 1746. As you explore the massive structure, you will come across some of the most state-of-the-art collections of arms for an 18th-century military era, such as pikes, swords, bayoneted muskets, and ammunition pouches. You will also see its robust garrison buildings and artillery defenses lined with cannons. 

5. Enjoy a day out at the Inverness Castle
A visit to Scotland is considered incomplete if you have not seen its mighty castles that retell a glorious history of the land. Located at the very heart of the city, Inverness Castle makes for an ideal entity on your list of things to do in Inverness. Dating back to 11 AD, this massive castle has withstood the ravages of time and has been witness to some of the most tumultuous periods. When here, you can climb up to the castle viewpoint to enjoy mesmerizing views of the entire city and the Highlands in the backdrop.

6. Dive deeper into the past at the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery
Learn about some of the most exciting tales from the days gone by as well as the deep-seated traditions, culture, people, and environment of the Highlands by visiting the Inverness Museum. Located in the center of the city at the foot of Castle Hill, the museum houses a marvelous collection of relics, antiquities, and artifacts that tell you volumes about the history of the country. Start with the exhibition on the ground floor that has exhibits showcasing geology, natural history, and rich archaeology in the Highlands. Move on to the other floors and discover more about the recent past with displays of Inverness silverware, Jacobite memorabilia, authentic Highland weapons, and bagpipes.

7. Soak in nature’s bounty at River Ness and the Ness Island
As you walk along the banks of the River Ness and across picturesque footbridges, you will come across a small yet scenic collection of islands known as the Ness islands. This is one of the most interesting things to do in Inverness particularly if you are a nature enthusiast as you can spot seabirds and seals along the way here. Head out to the Inverness War Memorial, the breathtaking flower gardens, and Inverness Cathedral. If you are here around February to mid-October, you can also catch glimpses of fishermen salmon fishing in the river.

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What are the most romantic things to do in Inverness for couples?

1. Enjoy the beauty of the Inverness CathedralIf you relish history as a couple, this is one of the best things to do in Inverness. The Anglican cathedral relays a rich past, particularly the heritage of the church in Scotland after the reformation. Admire the magnificence of the stained glass windows and exquisite architecture by Alexander Ross as well as some of the most intricate detailing and craftsmanship. If you are in time for one of the many exhibitions, concerts, and events that are hosted by the Cathedral all through the year, it is a good idea to attend them for a deeper insight into the culture of the land. 

2. Wander around the Inverness Botanic Gardens: 
The Botanical Gardens, Nursery, and Secret Gardens make for a great place to spend a peaceful day amid nature and are certainly one of the best things to do in Inverness for couples. Escape the bustle of city life and some sweet moments amid beautiful gardens, tropical houses, cactus houses, ponds, wildflower meadows, and much more. 

3. Visit River Ness and Ness Island: 
Visiting this calm and serene destination complete with nature trails, picture-perfect vistas, and vast floral gardens, makes it one of the top things to do in Inverness for couples. Spend some quiet and quality time together walking along the quiet riverbed until you cross over to the beautiful group of islands called the Ness Islands.

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Which are the best fun things to do in Inverness?

1. Enjoy a fun day at Wildwoodz: The Wildwoodz Adventure Park is a great place to append an exciting day with friends and family with a plethora of fun things to do here. You can indulge in activities like Paintball, Mini Paintball, archery, Lasertag, Axe throwing, Combat archery, Bushcraft, and eco-camping. All the activities here are made perfectly safe to try by the professional staff, well-kept equipment, and proper briefings and instructions.

2. Try some Inverness Crazy Golf: 
If you are looking for fun things to do in Inverness, there is no dearth of it particularly with this crazy golf course. The course’s 12 challenging holes are placed along the banks of the River Ness which is a great place to spend a calm and quiet day. It is also a popular picnic spot with ice cream and coffee kiosks nearby. 

3. Jump high at the Infinity Trampoline Park Inverness: 
Visit Scotland’s best trampoline park known for its massive size and some of the best facilities. There are different types of trampolines here that you can try and if not sure how there are plenty of helpful staff around at all times to help you out. The park also features an in-house café that offers a good selection of snacks and drinks if you wish to cool off after all the bouncing. 

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What are the best things to do in Inverness at night?

1. Enjoy fine Scottish spirits and music at Hootananny: Get a taste of the local malt whiskeys and other Scottish spirits at an old-world outlet located in the heart of Inverness. Head here after sundown to unwind with some great music played by grassroots musicians. It is located in the heart of the city on Church Street and is one of the best things to do in Inverness at night.

2. Go to Eden Court Theater: 
This is the city’s primary art center located right next to the banks of the serene River Ness. including Scottish drama, children’s shows, musicals, dance shows, and much more. The theater is fitted with some of the most state-of-the-art facilities and also has a superb café/bar and restaurant that serve great local fare. 

3. Head to the Castle Tavern: 
Step into this traditional pub that offers great pub food and real ales from across the land amid classic décor. You should not miss their very own house ale, Flora Macdonald, which is completely unique to the pub.

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What are the best things to do in Inverness this weekend?

1. Spend a quiet weekend at Leakey’s Bookshop: If you are an enthusiast for secondhand books, head to the largest of its kind in Scotland, a must-try on your weekend off. Housed in a former Gaelic church, the bookshop features more than 10,000 books spread across two floors. The wood-paneled interiors are made cozier by a large wood furnace which keeps the place well heated. There is also a charming spiral staircase that takes you up to the mezzanine floor.

2. Enjoy a fun day out at Eden Court Inverness: 
Located right behind the Inverness Cathedral is a grand multi-function building called Eden Court, an avenue for the performing arts in the city. There are a number of theater and cinema screens that host regular shows and films alongside an on-site restaurant and bar. You can also spend evenings here enjoying live theater performances and walking through galleries that showcase the works of local artists. 

3. Dig into the most delectable fare at the Inverness restaurants: 
If you are looking for interesting things to do in Inverness, try out some of its finest restaurants serving mouth-watering local and global cuisines. You can enjoy local delicacies at the outlet at Rocpool Reserve, European dining at Mustard Seed, pub food at Castle Tavern, or a number of other cuisines from India, Thailand, and China.

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What are the best things you can do in Inverness for free?

1. Spend a day at Loch Ness: Visit the most famous loch in the whole of Scotland known for its immense size and picturesque location. Alongside the lake lies the popular ruins of the Urquhart Castle that you can go exploring when here. Spending the day by this large freshwater loch in the Scottish Highlands, away from the hustle and bustle of the city certainly tops our list of fun things to do in Inverness for free.

2. Go to Culloden Battlefield: 
Take a step back in time and visualize the turbulent battle that claimed the lives of hundreds of soldiers on British soil. Visiting the Culloden Battlefield is among the most adventurous things to do in Inverness where you learn much about the end of the Jacobite regime in the Highlands. 

3. Tour around the Botanic Gardens: 
The Inverness Botanic Gardens are a huge attraction in the city with beautiful displays and a cozy on-site café. It is one of the best places to visit in Inverness for free particularly if you love nature. There are two primary indoor sections, a tropical house, and a cactus house as well as an outdoor garden with a variety of local plants on display.

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What is the best time to visit Inverness?

The best time of the year to visit Inverness is during the seasons of spring and autumn which is around the months of April, May, and September. This is the time when the weather here is the most pleasant and the crowds are also relatively less.

How many days do you need in Inverness?

If you are planning a visit to Scotland, you should keep at least 2 to 3 days aside for going around Inverness. This will give you ample time to explore all the fun things to do in Inverness such as visiting all its historic sites, enjoying its scenic beauty, and relishing its delectable cuisines, as well as getting a good taste of the local culture and way of life.

What is Inverness famous for?

Inverness is best known for its rich military history as well as its picturesque landscapes, great weather, medieval ruins, and quaint towns. It has some of the best castles, cathedrals, forts, and battlegrounds in the whole of Britain.

How To Reach Inverness?

You can take a flight to Inverness Airport which is just about 20 minutes' drive from the main city. There are several airlines that operate here like EasyJet, KLM, Loganair, and much more that connect it with cities like London, Dublin, and Belfast.You can also take a sleeper train from Edinburgh, Glasgow, and London to reach Inverness in a little over 9 hours. There are mega buses that operate from London, Edinburgh, and Glasgow and can comfortably take you to Inverness.

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How Far is Inverness from London?

Inverness is about 569 miles from London and can be easily reached by train in approximately 9 hours and 52 minutes. If you ride your car at an average speed of 70 miles an hour, you can cover the distance from London to Inverness in a little over 8 hours. 

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