Inverness is the cultural hub of the famous Highlands, where you can immerse yourself in rich Scottish heritage, a unique art scene and a wealth of historical sites. With the River Ness snaking through the city, it’s the perfect location to enjoy a truly picturesque setting – and the ideal base for exploring this phenomenal part of the world.
There are plenty of opportunities to venture out into the vast countryside, from Britain's highest peak to the mysteries of Loch Ness.
With castles, wildlife and extraordinary legends to unearth, this is an exciting place to discover. Here are some of the best things to do in Inverness when you pay a visit.
Inverness Castle
One of the most impressive sites within the city is Inverness Castle, which has overlooked the River Ness since its construction in the 19th century – but whose origins hail all the way back to medieval times. Guarding the waterway, the looming towers of the fort you see today were also conceived to act as a court and prison, dominating the landscape and attracting visitors as illustrious as Queen Victoria.
Although the majority of the castle is off limits, as it continues to serve as the city’s courthouse, you can still purchase tickets to the watchtower for spectacular views. Visit this spot to take in uninterrupted panoramas of the cityscape and the stunning green Highlands in the distance.
The castle is located in the heart of the city, with convenient parking near the Ironworks. To fully appreciate the sheer size of the building, cross Ness Bridge to the west side of Inverness and take in the sight of the castle over the water.
Inverness Museum and Art Gallery
The area boasts a rich Bronze Age history, and the city’s museums are brimming with interesting exhibits, preserved artifacts and local heritage projects. The Inverness Museum and Art Gallery offers this and so much more, overlooking the River Ness and located within a vibrant central neighbourhood.
With tens of thousands of significant objects at its disposal, this attraction blends its wealth of knowledge with contemporary touring art exhibits. Admire valuable artifacts from ancient times and learn more about the Roman Empire. Take time to discover the journey of the region, all the way through to the industrial era, the modern day and its predicted future.
Read the love letters from local residents who lived and worked within the Highland Military Zone during World War Two, offering a heart-warming look into the past, and marvel at the esteemed paintings and creative works on display.
Thanks to a successful conservation project, new finds from local archaeological digs turn up regularly – adding to the powerful influence that the Highlands and Inverness have on the wider Scottish culture and heritage.
Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle
Learn more about the legend of Loch Ness at the most famous body of water in Scotland – and the entire United Kingdom. Accounts of a monster lurking in the lake’s depths date back all the way to ancient times, but it wasn't until the first half of the 20th century that numerous claims began to surface, with people saying they had witnessed this legendary creature.
Pay a visit, and see if you can spot ‘Nessie’ yourself.
On the edge of the loch stands the remains of the impressive Urquhart Castle. With many centuries of history to its name, this old fortress has seen numerous wars, sieges and power-struggles since its medieval origins.
Visit to admire the looming ruins looking out over the mysterious Loch Ness, against a backdrop of rolling green hillside, and take a boat tour out across the water to explore further.
Inverness Golf Club
The Highland Games may be known throughout the world, but one sport that has always been popular in this part of Scotland – not least due to the serene surroundings – is golf.
Take time away from the excitement of the city to visit the popular Inverness Golf Club, east of the River Ness on Culcabock Road. A challenging course with bends, bunkers and raised putting greens, this will entertain even the most experienced of players.
Lined with evergreen trees and surrounded by lush countryside, practice your putt on this well-maintained, popular setting. There's plenty of parking on site.
Hiking in the Highlands
One of the best ways to discover the rugged beauty of the Scottish countryside is to venture out by car, then explore on foot.
From wild valleys to salmon filled lakes and flourishing evergreen trees; the landscapes are magnificent. From Inverness, there are several organized trails you can take – from short distances to more extensive routes. Hiking through the hills can be a magnificent experience – just make sure you have the right clothing and essentials with you for your adventure, and plan your route well in advance.
With 378km of ever-changing landscape, why not follow a section of the Caledonia Way? It heads through the Great Glen Way up to Ben Nevis, travelling from Inverness to Campbeltown. Passing through several quaint Scottish villages, including Fort Augustus and Gairlochy, there are plenty of scenic spots and glistening lakes to admire.
Clava Cairns
Scotland is rich in Bronze Age history, with a number of significant sites across the Inverness region showcasing this interesting time period. Clava Cairns can be reached in around 20 minutes’ drive from the city, and is well worth a trip.
This ancient chambered cemetery dates back to 2000 BC, and offers a mysterious atmosphere. There are two monuments to explore; foundations of a chapel from the medieval period, and the complex burial ground itself. Visit to admire the striking stone site where heaps were piled in a circular shape. Take the opportunity of a guided tour of the site too, and you can get more of a detailed picture of life during the Bronze Age.
To maximize your time here, take a road trip through the Scottish Highlands and see all of the city's fantastic sights at your own pace. With plenty of attractions nearby, the best things to do in Inverness are at your fingertips.