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Inverness is a charming city in the Scottish Highlands, full of places to visit and things to do! Whether you’re looking for some of the best places to visit in Inverness or want to explore the area, there are plenty of activities and things to do that you can enjoy. From historical sites to outdoor activities and more, we’ve rounded up the 10 best things to do in Inverness so that you can get the most out of your trip. Read on to discover all the great places to visit in Inverness and the best things to do!
Let’s have a look at the best things to do in Inverness!
Visit the Inverness Castle
One of the must-see Inverness tourist attractions is the Inverness Castle. It is in the heart of the city and offers stunning views of the River Ness.
Every trip to Inverness would be complete with a visit to the city’s iconic castle. This 19th-century fortress stands proudly overlooking the River Ness and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Highland scenery. There are many things to do in Inverness, but a tour of the castle should be at the top of your list.
Inside the castle, you can explore the fascinating history of Inverness and the Highlands through interactive exhibits, displays, and artifacts. You can also climb to the castle tower’s top for panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside.
Visiting the Inverness Castle is one of the top things to do in Inverness, whether you’re a history buff or looking to take in some stunning Scottish scenery.
Take a stroll through Loch Ness
One of the most stunning places to visit in Inverness is Loch Ness, the famous body of water home to the legendary Loch Ness Monster. While spotting Nessie may not be guaranteed, a stroll along the banks of Loch Ness is still a must-do for any traveler visiting the area.
The Loch stretches over 23 miles long and is over 700 feet deep at some points, making it the largest body of water in the British Isles. As you wander along the banks of Loch Ness, you’ll be struck by the area’s natural beauty.
The water is crystal clear, and on a sunny day, it shimmers like a jewel in the Scottish sunlight. The surrounding hills are covered in a lush green carpet of trees and grass, making for a picturesque landscape that’s hard to forget.
There are plenty of things to do in Inverness around Loch Ness, from boating and fishing to hiking and camping. Many travelers choose to take a guided tour of the area, which can offer insights into the history and folklore surrounding the Loch. Others opt for a scenic drive around the area, stopping at various viewpoints to enjoy the stunning scenery.
Whatever your preference, a stroll through Loch Ness is an experience you won’t forget anytime soon. Whether you’re a fan of the legendary monster or appreciate the area’s natural beauty. Visiting Loch Ness is one of the best things to do in Inverness. So grab your walking shoes and embark on an adventure you’ll never forget.
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Visit Clava Cairns
One of the top activities in Inverness is visiting Clava Cairns. This ancient burial site is just a few miles east of the city. It is an incredibly well-preserved example of Bronze Age architecture. The site is made up of a number of stone circles, passage graves, and cairns that date back over 4,000 years.
Visitors can walk around the site and admire the intricate stonework that makes up each structure. Some of the most impressive features include the alignment of the stones with the winter solstice and the detailed carvings on the standing stones.
The site is also steeped in myth and legend, with many locals believing it was once a portal to another world. Whether you’re interested in history or archaeology or love a good mystery, visiting Clava Cairns is an absolute must.
Explore Inverness Museum & Art Gallery
For a more immersive experience of the history and culture of Inverness, make sure to add the Inverness Museum & Art Gallery to your list of best things to do in Inverness. This attraction showcases the rich heritage of the Highlands with various exhibitions, artifacts, and artworks.
The museum has a range of interactive displays, audio-visual presentations, and hands-on activities that will captivate visitors of all ages. You can learn about the city’s notable personalities, including inventor Joseph Bell, who inspired the character of Sherlock Holmes. There’s also an exhibition that delves into the Jacobite rebellion’s history and its impact on the region.
If you’re into art, you’ll be pleased to know that the gallery houses a collection of contemporary and traditional artworks that highlight the diversity of the local art scene. There’s something to suit all tastes, from paintings to sculptures and installations.
The Inverness Museum & Art Gallery is one of the must-visit Inverness tourist attractions. Admission is free, and you can take advantage of guided tours and educational programs if you’re keen to learn more about the history and art of the Highlands. So take advantage of this enriching experience on your trip to Inverness.
Check out Fort George
Fort George should be at the top of your list if you’re looking for Inverness hidden gems. This fortress, located about 11 miles northeast of Inverness, is an incredible piece of history that is well worth the trip. Built after the Battle of Culloden, Fort George was designed to keep the Highlands in check and to discourage further rebellion.
Today, Fort George is one of the best free things to do in Inverness. You can wander through the barracks, explore the gun batteries, and admire the views of the Moray Firth. A museum inside the fort gives a fascinating look at what life was like for the soldiers stationed there.
Exploring Fort George is one of the top ways to explore Inverness highlights. The fort is a masterpiece of military engineering, and the location is stunning. Take advantage of this fantastic Scottish history piece on your Inverness trip.
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Explore a World of Plants at Inverness Botanic Gardens
When it comes to things to do in Inverness, the Inverness Botanic Gardens are worth a visit. These stunning gardens are home to a vast variety of plants and flowers worldwide, including everything from exotic cacti to delicate orchids.
One of the highlights of the Inverness Botanic Gardens is the Tropical House, which is packed with lush foliage, water features, and even a resident butterfly colony. Visitors can also explore the herb garden, which features fragrant and flavorful plants used for centuries in cooking and medicine.
For those who love all things floral, a stroll through the stunning landscaped gardens is a must. The garden features beautifully designed flowerbeds and a rose garden that is especially delightful during summer.
Overall, a trip to the Inverness Botanic Gardens is a must-do for anyone looking for a unique and tranquil experience in the city’s heart. It’s one of the most beautiful and peaceful things to do in Inverness and will surely be a highlight of your trip.
Visit the Culloden Battlefield
A trip to Inverness would only be complete with visiting the Culloden Battlefield. This historic site is where the infamous Battle of Culloden took place in 1746, the final Jacobite uprising against the British government. The battlefield is a somber yet fascinating place to visit. Visitors can learn about the events and pay their respects to those who lost their lives.
There are plenty of things to do and see at the Culloden Battlefield. Visitors can take a guided tour of the site, including the battlefield itself and the impressive Visitor Centre. The Visitor Centre is home to various exhibitions and displays, which offer a detailed look at the battle and the people who fought in it.
In addition to the tours and exhibitions, visitors can also walk along the trails around the battlefield, which offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside. There are also a variety of activities and events that take place throughout the year, including reenactments of the battle, historical talks and presentations, and more.
The Culloden Battlefield is one of the most important places in Inverness. It is a site of great historical significance and offers a unique glimpse into Scotland’s past. Whether you are a history buff or just looking for something interesting to do in Inverness, be sure to put the Culloden Battlefield on your list of must-visit places.
Take a trip to St. Andrew’s Cathedral
St. Andrew’s Cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture located in the heart of Inverness. Built-in the mid-19th century, the cathedral boasts a beautiful stained-glass window and intricate stone carvings.
The cathedral is open to visitors throughout the day, and admission is free. Take a guided tour to learn more about the history and architecture of the building, or wander through on your own to admire the beauty and peaceful atmosphere.
Be sure to walk through the tranquil grounds surrounding the cathedral, which offer a perfect picnic or quiet reflection spot. Whether you’re religious or not, St. Andrew’s Cathedral is a must-see destination in Inverness.
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Get the Malt Whisky Trail
One of the top activities in Inverness for whiskey lovers is to embark on the Malt Whisky Trail. This trail takes you through the heart of Scotland’s malt whisky country and allows you to experience the rich history and culture of whiskey-making.
You can start your journey at the Glen Ord Distillery, which offers tours and tastings. The distillery also boasts a stunning location on the banks of the River Ness.
The trail also takes you to the Dalwhinnie Distillery, which is situated in the Cairngorms National Park. Here, you can enjoy stunning views while savoring some of the best whisky in the region.
Other distilleries along the Malt Whisky Trail include Glenlivet, Macallan, and Aberlour. Each one offers its unique take on Scottish whisky-making and has a distinctive flavor profile.
Whether you’re a seasoned whisky lover or a newbie, the Malt Whisky Trail is one of the popular and fascinating things to do in Inverness. It’s an opportunity to explore the beautiful Scottish countryside, meet passionate distillers, and enjoy some of the world’s best whisky.
Visit the Cawdor Castle
One of the top Inverness tourist attractions is the Cawdor Castle, a beautifully preserved medieval castle. Located just 10 miles east of Inverness, the Cawdor Castle is a must-visit for anyone interested in Scottish history and architecture.
Built in the 14th century, the castle boasts a rich history well-preserved over the centuries. Visitors can take guided tours of the castle and explore the many rooms and chambers that make up the castle. The gardens are also a highlight, with well-manicured lawns and beautiful floral displays that make for a peaceful and serene visit.
In addition to the castle itself, there are many other things to do in Inverness at Cawdor Castle. Visitors can also explore the nearby Cawdor Estate, which boasts a network of walking trails that lead through the beautiful Scottish countryside.
All in all, visiting Cawdor Castle is one of the best things to do in Inverness, offering visitors a unique glimpse into Scotland’s rich history and culture. So whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a fun day out, the Cawdor Castle is well worth a visit.
