Scotland’s Northernmost city, Inverness is the perfect launching point for most tours of the Scottish Highlands- some of my favorite scenery in the world.
Inverness, meaning “Mouth of the River Ness”- yes that Ness, of Loch Ness Monster Fame, is bisected by the river from which it gets its name, which offers some lovely strolls through the heart of the city.
Outlander has, of course, increased the popularity of the city, and its difficult to get far without hearing some reference to the show!
The nearby Clava Cairns are said to have been the inspiration for the standing stones that send Claire through time, and the famous Battle of Culloden took place just 20 minutes away from town.
Inverness and I have a bit of an ongoing grudge match- no matter when I visit, I always end up cold and soaked to the bones by an out of season rainstorm. For this reason, I agree with the top suggestion of things to do in Inverness: leave (aka take a day tour).
It’s difficult to properly tour Scotland without making at least a pit stop in Inverness, so these are some of my favorite places to check out when I’m in the city
Inverness Train Station
Inverness Train Station is pretty barren compared to a lot of train stations I’ve been to. Still, they’ve got the standard coffee and convenience shops, plus rentable lockers to store luggage. They also offer showers for 5 euro which included soap and a towel. Perfect for those coming off a long hike!
Victorian Market
Just across the street from Inverness Train Station, the refurbished Victorian Market houses two lovely shopping arcades. There are a few souvenir shops and jewelry stores- all on the more expensive side, but fun to explore.
There is also a huge food court with dozens of vendors to choose from. I don’t know if I was just exceptionally hungry, but the ham and cheese turnover I picked up from Bad Girl Bakery was exceptionally tasty on a chilly day. I highly recommend stopping here for a snack!
High Street
Inverness’ High Street offers more shopping opportunities with some pubs and restaurants scattered throughout. You’ll find local brands and chains alike here.
Inverness River
Take a stroll along the Ness River for some peaceful views of the city. There are several bridges that will allow you to pass from side to side, depending on your preferred view. Keep an eye out for the suspension bridge Greig Street Bridge- also known as “The Bouncy Bridge”.
As you walk along the river, you’ll come across the Ness Islands after about 20 minutes. This collection of tiny natural islands are linked by footbridges, making for a really peaceful nature walk just steps away from the city!
Inverness Cathedral
Pop by Inverness Cathedral to see the pretty naves. This is also a common meeting point for tour groups, so it’s good to know where the building is!
Inverness Castle
This castle is relatively new, with the current structure having been built in 1836, though castles have been built in this location since 1057. Although it towers over the River Ness, it sees few visitors- at first since it was housing the Sheriff Court, and now because it is under construction. Hopefully visitors will soon be able to explore these halls when the building is scheduled to open later this year.
Inverness Museum and Art Gallery
Just steps away from Inverness Castle, Castle Wynd hosts the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery. This museum focuses on the Scottish Highlands. Visitors will find Jacobite memorabilia, authentic Highland weaponry, Pictish stones, and displays on Scottish geography to name a few!
Leakey’s Bookshop
Possibly one of Inverness’ least kept secrets, Leakey’s Bookshop is a great place to duck out of the wet weather and spend some time perusing the vast collection of used books and prints.
This secondhand bookshop hosts over 100,000 used books, making it the largest used book store in Scotland! It can get a little crowded with visitors, but it’s still lovely to explore the bookshelves surrounded by the smell of old paper.
The central wood burning stove and spiral staircase only add to the magical charm!
Old High Church Cemetery
Leakey’s was once used as a jail cell for captured Jacobite soldiers. Some of those men unfortunately met their end in the graveyard right next to the book shop. If you look closely, you can still see some of the bullet holes gorged into the church wall from their executions.
Johnny Foxes
This popular bar has hosted celebrities and locals alike over the years. Stop by this cozy bar after 10pm for live music performance nightly. There is also a connected nightclub, known as The Den, located just next to the pub.
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