Welcome to Inverness, the unofficial capital of the Scottish Highlands. This isn’t just another city; it’s your front door to epic landscapes, stories that feel older than time, and a vibe that’s both rugged and incredibly welcoming.
Nestled on the banks of the River Ness, this compact city packs a serious punch, offering a killer mix of history, nature, and pure magic that’ll stick with you long after you’ve gone home.
So, you’re thinking about a trip? Get ready. We’re diving deep into the absolute best things to do in Inverness, from no-brainer classics to hidden gems that locals love.
This list is your golden ticket to planning an unforgettable adventure. Forget boring guides, we’re cutting to the chase and giving you the real scoop on how to make the most of your time in this incredible part of the United Kingdom. Let’s hit the road!
1. Loch Ness – Best Overall & For Iconic Scenery
Let’s be real, you can’t talk about the best things to do in Inverness without shouting out Loch Ness first. This isn’t just a lake; it’s a global superstar. Stretching for about 23 miles southwest of the city, Loch Ness is the ultimate Highland icon.
The water is dark and deep, holding more freshwater than all the lakes in England and Wales combined.
That’s a whole lot of water, and who knows what could be lurking beneath the surface? The legend of Nessie is what pulls most folks in, and that’s okay. Go ahead, keep your eyes peeled for a ripple or an unusual shape. It’s all part of the fun.
But even if the monster plays hard to get, the scenery is a guaranteed showstopper. Drive along the loch’s western shore for views that will absolutely blow your mind. The ruins of Urquhart Castle perched right on the shoreline are a must-see.
Exploring these historic ruins with the loch as a backdrop is an experience you simply can’t get anywhere else. For a different perspective, hop on a boat cruise. There are several operators, like Jacobite Cruises, that offer tours leaving right from the city.
Feeling the cool breeze on your face as you sail this legendary body of water is an absolute bucket-list moment. This is, without a doubt, one of the top Inverness attractions for a reason.
2. Leakey’s Bookshop – Best For a Unique Find & Budget Friendly
Tucked away in a former Gaelic church, Leakey’s Bookshop is the kind of place you see in movies but rarely find in real life. This is the largest secondhand bookshop in Scotland, and walking in is a full-on sensory experience.
The first thing you’ll notice is the smell—that incredible, comforting scent of old paper and wood.
Then you’ll see the towering shelves, the spiral staircases, and the giant cast-iron stove in the center, which keeps the place cozy. It’s a labyrinth, a treasure trove for book lovers and curiosity seekers alike.
You can easily lose a couple of hours here, just browsing through thousands of books on every topic imaginable. It’s not just about the books, though.
They also have beautiful antique maps and prints that make for perfect, unique souvenirs. The best part? It’s incredibly easy on your wallet. You can find a fantastic read or a beautiful print for just a few pounds.
This is one of those special Inverness things to do that offers a quiet escape from the more touristy spots. It’s a chance to find a piece of history to take home with you without spending a fortune.
3. Culloden Battlefield – Best For History Buffs
Step onto the moor at Culloden Battlefield, and you can feel the history in the air. This is the site of the last full-scale battle fought on British soil, back in 1746. It wasn’t just a fight; it was the brutal end of a way of life for the Scottish clans. A visit here is a powerful and moving experience.
The excellent visitor center does a phenomenal job of setting the scene. You’ll walk through immersive exhibits and hear the stories from both sides, which really makes the history come alive.
Then, you walk out onto the field itself. It’s a vast, open, and somber place. You’ll see the gravestones marking where the clans fell, and the Old Leanach cottage that surprisingly survived the battle. Standing there, you get a real sense of the scale and the tragedy of what happened.
For anyone wanting to understand Scottish history, this is a non-negotiable stop. It’s one of the most profound and important historical sites near Inverness. Make sure to give yourself plenty of time to take it all in.
4. Whin Park – Best For Families & A Fun Day Out
If you’re traveling with kids and need a break from castles and history, Whin Park is your answer. This place is an absolute blast for families. It’s a massive, well-kept public park with heaps of things to keep everyone entertained.
The star attraction is the miniature railway that chugs its way through the woods. Kids (and let’s be honest, adults too) get a huge kick out of the ride.
There’s also a fantastic wooden playground, paddle boats for the pond, and plenty of wide-open green space to just run around and burn off some energy.
It’s the perfect spot for a picnic on a nice day. You can grab some supplies from a local market, spread out a blanket, and relax while the kids play. The park feels safe and enclosed, so you can breathe easy.
For a low-key, fun-filled afternoon that feels a million miles away from any stress, Whin Park is a total winner. It’s easily one of the best family-friendly activities in Inverness and a surefire way to put a smile on everyone’s face.
5. Inverness Botanic Gardens – Best For a Peaceful Stroll & Budget Friendly
Right in the heart of the city, you’ll find a little slice of paradise called the Inverness Botanic Gardens. This place is a quiet oasis, and the best part? It’s completely free to enter.
The gardens are beautifully maintained and feature a variety of sections to explore. Step inside the glasshouses and you’re transported to a different world.
The tropical house is warm and humid, filled with colorful orchids and banana plants, while the cactus house shows off a stunning collection of desert dwellers.
Outside, the gardens are just as lovely, with a charming waterfall, a floral clock, and peaceful paths winding alongside a stream. It’s a wonderful place for a slow, mindful walk, to read a book on a bench, or to simply enjoy the beauty of nature without any crowds.
Whether you’re a serious plant lover or just someone who needs a moment of calm, the Botanic Gardens deliver. It’s a fantastic, free thing to do in Inverness that adds a touch of serenity to any itinerary.
6. Clava Cairns – Best For Ancient History & Outlander Fans
Just a stone’s throw from Culloden Battlefield lies a site that feels even older and more mysterious: the Clava Cairns. This is a incredibly well-preserved Bronze Age burial ground, dating back about 4,000 years.
You’ll find standing stones and chambered cairns arranged in a circular pattern. Walking among these ancient stones is a humbling experience. It’s quiet, it’s powerful, and it makes you wonder about the people who built this place so long ago.
For fans of the TV series Outlander, this spot will look very familiar. It served as the inspiration for the fictional Craigh na Dun, the stone circle that sends Claire back in time. Even if you’re not a fan of the show, the Clava Cairns are utterly captivating.
There’s no visitor center or ticket booth, just you and history. It’s one of those unique places to visit near Inverness that connects you directly to a distant past. The atmosphere here is truly something special.
7. Victorian Market – Best For Shopping & Local Flavors
Need a break from the great outdoors? Duck inside the Victorian Market. This charming, covered market has been a hub for shoppers since the 1890s. With its ornate archways and historic feel, it’s more than just a place to shop—it’s a step back in time.
You’ll find a wonderful mix of independent vendors here. There are shops selling authentic Scottish tartans and tweeds, perfect for finding a meaningful souvenir. You can also find unique jewelry, artwork, and crafts made by local artisans.
When you get hungry, you’re in for a treat. The market has several food stalls and small cafes offering a range of goodies. You can grab a freshly baked pastry, a hearty Scottish pie, or a vegan-friendly snack.
It’s a great spot to pick up lunch and do some people-watching. Supporting the small businesses here means you’re taking home a piece of Inverness culture, not some mass-produced trinket. It’s a delightful and essential Inverness experience.
8. Dolphin Spirit Inverness Cruise – Best For Wildlife Encounters
You might not expect it, but the waters of the Moray Firth near Inverness are home to a population of bottlenose dolphins. These are the most northerly resident dolphins in the world. One of the coolest ways to try and see them is on a Dolphin Spirit cruise.
Their modern, comfortable boats set sail from the mouth of the River Ness and head out into the firth. The crew is knowledgeable and passionate about the local wildlife, and they know all the best spots to look for activity.
Of course, dolphins are wild animals, so sightings aren’t 100% guaranteed, but the chances are pretty good, especially during the warmer months. Even if the dolphins are shy, the boat ride itself is fantastic.
You get stunning views of the city skyline from the water and the beautiful surrounding coastline. You might also spot seals basking on the sandbanks and a variety of seabirds. It’s an exciting adventure that adds a whole different dimension to your Inverness trip.
9. Ness Islands – Best For a Scenic Walk & Budget Friendly
Connected to the riverbanks by elegant Victorian footbridges, the Ness Islands are a beautiful natural sanctuary right in the middle of the city. A stroll to these islands is a favorite local pastime, and it’s easy to see why.
The paths are flat and well-maintained, making it accessible for just about everyone. As you walk, you’re surrounded by majestic pine and fir trees, with the River Ness rushing past on either side. It’s unbelievably peaceful.
The islands are perfect for a leisurely walk, a morning jog, or a relaxing bike ride. In the autumn, the colors are spectacular. Throughout the year, you’ll often see squirrels darting about and herons fishing in the river. It’s a public space that feels wonderfully remote.
This is easily one of the best free activities in Inverness. You get incredible scenery, fresh air, and a sense of tranquility without spending a dime or traveling far from the city center.
10. Black Isle Brewery – Best For Beer Lovers & A Unique Tour
Alright, let’s talk about a local favorite. The Black Isle Brewery, located just a short drive from the city center, is an organic brewery that makes some seriously good beer. They are pioneers in the organic brewing scene in Scotland.
Taking a tour here is a real treat. You’ll get to see the whole process, from the malt to the finished product, and learn what makes organic brewing special. The staff are friendly and clearly love what they do.
Of course, the best part is the tasting session at the end. You get to sample a range of their beers, from golden ales to rich porters. They even have non-alcoholic options. The brewery bar is a cool, rustic space where you can hang out and enjoy a pint.
They also have a pizza place on site, so you can grab a slice with your drink. It’s a fun, laid-back experience that gives you a true taste of the local craft scene. It’s a standout among fun things to do in Inverness for adults.
11. Tomatin Distillery – Best For Whisky Connoisseurs
You can’t come to Scotland without visiting a whisky distillery, and Tomatin is a fantastic choice. Located about 15 miles south of Inverness, it’s one of the highest distilleries in Scotland. The landscape around it is just breathtaking.
Tomatin has a rich history dating back to 1897, and they offer several different tour options. The guides are excellent, walking you through the entire whisky-making process and sharing the distillery’s unique story.
You’ll learn about malting, mashing, fermentation, and distillation. Then, you get to the good part: the tasting. Sipping a single malt Scotch in the very place it was made is an experience you won’t forget. The aroma and flavor are just incredible.
Even if you’re not a huge whisky drinker, the process is fascinating. A visit to Tomatin is a classic Highland experience and a key part of any Inverness sightseeing tour for those looking to dive into Scotch culture.
12. Craig Phadrig – Best For a View & A Hike
For the final spot on our list, we’re heading to a local secret with a huge payoff. Craig Phadrig is a wooded hill on the western edge of the city. At its summit are the remains of an ancient fort, believed to have been a stronghold of the Pictish kings.
The hike to the top is a bit of a climb through a beautiful forest, but it’s totally manageable for most fitness levels. The trail is well-marked and takes about 30-45 minutes.
When you emerge at the top, you are rewarded with a panoramic view that is absolutely jaw-dropping. You can see right across the entire city of Inverness, the Moray Firth, and the Great Glen. On a clear day, it feels like you can see forever.
It’s the perfect place to watch the sunset. This spot doesn’t have the crowds of the other major attractions, so you can often have the view all to yourself. It’s the perfect, active way to cap off your Inverness adventure.
Conclusion
Well, there you have it. From legendary lochs and ancient battlefields to quiet bookshops and hilltop views, Inverness is a destination that truly has it all. This isn’t a place you just check off a list; it’s a place you feel.
The memories you make here, whether it’s the thrill of a potential monster sighting or the peace of a forest walk, will stay with you for a lifetime.
So what are you waiting for? Your trip to the Scottish Highlands is calling. Start planning your journey today, use this list as your guide, and get ready to discover why Inverness is one of the most captivating cities in the United Kingdom. Adventure is out there. Go find it