27 Must-Visit Attractions in and Around Inverness, Scotland
In the heart of the Scottish Highlands, Inverness is surrounded by a wealth of places to visit. From naturally beautiful areas such as Loch Ness to man-made marvels including Cawdor Castle, the scope of things to see and do can be dizzying. Here are the best attractions in the area.
1. Loch Ness
Natural Feature
2. Urquhart Castle
Museum, Ruins
3. Culloden Battlefield
Memorial, Ruins
4. Falcon Square
Building
5. Hogwarts Express and the Scenic Highlands Tour
Architectural Landmark
6. Cawdor Castle and Gardens
Building
7. River Ness and the Inverness Castle
Ruins
8. Clava Cairns
Cemetery, Historical Landmark
9. Fairy Glen
Natural Feature
10. Inverness Botanic Gardens
Botanical Garden
A subtropical wonderland in northern Scotland, the Inverness Botanic Gardens grow an astounding array of plants, from cacti to pitcher plants, with added fish ponds and even a waterfall. The sheltered outdoor garden is colourful and an excellent place to walk around on a sunny day; as the gardens sit between the Caledonian Canal and the River Ness, the opportunities to walk further are tempting.
11. Fort George
Ruins, Historical Landmark
12. Inverness Cathedral
Cathedral
One of the more defining landmarks in Inverness, the cathedral, designed by architect Alexander Ross, stands as a monument to the religious beliefs in the area. With its foundation stone laid in 1866, it was the second cathedral built following the reformation.
13. Eden Court Highlands
Theatre
14. Munlochy Clootie Well
Park
15. Beauly Priory
Ruins
16. Glenmorangie Distillery
Distillery
17. Glen Affric
Natural Feature
18. The Caledonian Canal
Natural Feature
19. Glen Ord Distillery
Distillery
RZSS Highland Wildlife Park
Specialising in native Scottish wildlife and other colder weather creatures, the RZSS Highland Wildlife Park has received acclaim for its Scottish wildcat breeding programme, as it tries to save the species from extinction. Other natural treasures include native grey wolves, polar bears and red pandas.
Nairn
Apart from the miles of sand, the challenging golf course, the walks, the shops and the excellent places to eat, the beauty of this little seaside town is that it’s only a 15-minute train ride from Inverness. Actress Tilda Swinton lives here, and with good reason; it’s a lovely corner of the world.
Hootananny
If you want to sample traditional Highland hospitality, drink, music and dance, Hootananny is perhaps the best option. On Fridays and Saturdays, some of the tables are cleared to enable ceilidh dancing, bringing with it many smiles, laughter and a feeling of accomplishment when you remember the steps.
Victorian Market
Built in the 19th century, this picturesque market is home to an abundance of cool craft shops and independent boutiques. If you start to feel peckish, the market also has a selection of delicious cafes and eateries.
Inverness Museum and Art Gallery
Built to house the artefacts that tell the story of Inverness, the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery offers you an insight into Highland life. Meanwhile, the adjoining art galleries feature both permanent and temporary exhibitions, with a special highlight on local artists.
Leakey’s Bookshop
Among the largest bookshops in Scotland – and built inside a former church – Leakey’s Bookshop is a literature lover’s dream. With everything from rare prints to classic editions, there is sure to be something that catches your eye. The shop also houses a cafe, which is perfect for taking a break.
Highlanders’ Museum
Showcasing the rich military history of Scotland’s Highland regiments, the Highlanders’ Museum is a must-visit for any history buff. Chronicling the Highland soldiers’ history from the nearby Battle of Culloden straight through to the active regiments of today, the museum shares the lives of the soldiers as well as some of their greatest victories.
Ness Islands
Lying in the middle of the River Ness, the Ness Islands are the perfect destination for a leisurely Sunday stroll. Crossing Victorian suspension bridges over to the islands, you’ll find several nature trails that will lead you around the area and past other local attractions, such as the Inverness Botanic Gardens and Whin Park.
Additional reporting by Nicholas Grantham
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