In the heart of the Scottish Highlands, Inverness is surrounded by a wealth of places to visit. From naturally beautiful areas like Loch Ness to man-made marvels like Cawdor Castle, the scope of things to see and do can be dizzying. To help, Culture Trip has outlined 25 of the very best attractions in the area.
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.
Built to house the artefacts that tell the story of Inverness’s and the surrounding area’s heritage and culture, 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.
One of the more defining landmarks in Inverness, the cathedral, designed by famed 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.
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.
For any Harry Potter fans who fancy a treat, why not take a trip on the real-life Hogwarts Express? Travelling from Inverness on the famous Jacobite steam train, the tour of the Highlands will take you through some of the most breathtaking scenery in the country. As a bonus, you’ll travel over the magnificent Glenfinnan Viaduct, a feat of Victorian-era engineering.
Additional reporting by Nicholas Grantham