THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Inverness
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Things to Do in Inverness
Check out must-see sights and activities:
Fort George, Tomatin Distillery Visitor Centre, Historic Sites, Nature and Wildlife Tours. For personalised recommendations, try our AI trip-planning product.
Fort George, Tomatin Distillery Visitor Centre, Historic Sites, Nature and Wildlife Tours. For personalised recommendations, try our AI trip-planning product.
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Historic Sites
Distilleries
Bodies of Water
Tranquil river walk through historical landscapes, with wildlife spotting and serene views of iconic architecture, enhanced by benches and marked paths for leisurely exploration.
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Scenic Drives
Scenic coastal drive through Scotland's rugged landscapes, featuring wildlife encounters and quaint villages. Presents a challenge with single track roads, yet rewards with breathtaking views.
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Speciality Museums
Museum set in historic fortress featuring military history and artifacts with personalized tours, highlighting Scottish wars, Jacobite tales, and breathtaking views.
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History Museums
Museum with engaging displays on local history and natural wildlife, complete with interactive activities for children and a cosy café. Ideal for cultural immersion on a drizzly day.
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Churches & Cathedrals
Historic Sites
Historical home amidst Highland tranquility, with self-guided audio tours, scenic Loch Ness views, and rich cultural tales. Enjoy a serene visit steeped in history.
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Bodies of Water
Scenic canal walkways intertwine with historic locks and local wildlife. Enjoy leisurely strolls, engineering feats, and vibrant town charm amidst picturesque views.
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Theatres
Open-air music venue by the River Ness with a variety of seating options, live performances, and a cinema. Near the train station, it provides a lively atmosphere with river views.
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Other Top Attractions around Inverness
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What travellers are saying
- pirate012015Chepstow, UK76 contributionsI will cut to the chase with this review, many the time we have travelled east along A96 and said' one day we must take that Left turn and visit Fort George' Well we finally made it and quite simply it has a fantastic story to tell , is a whole encyclopaedia set of military history ( as well as still being a living military base) and the 'highlands regimental museum is simply the best we have ever been to. So make that detour ,it is well worth it!Written 10 February 2025This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- ginge305Crawley, United Kingdom15 contributionsThis was our first tour of a whiskey distillery and it was so interesting and great value for money. Ken, our guide, was knowledgeable and funny and was happy to answer all our questions. Thank you for a great time and the lovely whiskey samples!Written 15 March 2025This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- profjoypcAlnwick, UK4,633 contributionsThis wonderful river is so worth visiting in all seasons of the year, including February when we were there on this occasion. One can walk for miles along the safe riverside pathways, crossing over to the islands and enjoying the scenery and trees.Written 10 February 2025This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Michael H5 contributionsWe are fortunate to have made this trip twice, in terms of wilderness, wildlife and views the West coast to the North is definitely the best part, second time around we travelled from fort William to Durness and included the Isle of Skye (which you can traverse in a van easily in two days and see everything plus do a bit of hiking) our main stops were Arisaig, Skye, Applecross, Shieldaig, Achmelvich and Durness, all very isolated and beautiful. We saw plenty of wildlife including otters, deer, seals, marine birds and birds of prey and met friendly travellers and locals along the way. It’s a very peaceful, reflective and restorative experience. 10 days is more than enough, in that time we fitted in 6 decent hikes and climbs.
The weather is extreme at times so ensure you have supplies and appropriate clothing, you will need to take some food supplies as there is sparse provision on the route bar the honey pots. We did find that the NC500 food stop wagons were not all that and were overpriced. The driving is one track in places for long miles and please offer courtesy when driving in a van by stopping to allow people to pass. Additionally think about where you’re parking. Areas would not be suitable to for large vehicles and or inexperienced drivers, you need to research this before planning your route.
There is ample provision for vans and motorhomes to fill with water and deposit waste, we went off peak season and even though the provision is there we did see evidence of people dumping their waste which is awful, I can imagine how much worse this can be in peak season and how poor behaviours and influx makes local residents feel. Subsequently, we felt off vibes from locals a couple of times which was a shame.
We stayed on sites during our trip and our favourites were Shieldaig and Sango sands. Lovely facilities and hot showers with fair prices. Plenty of opportunities to support local communities at farm and craft shops etc.
I would recommend going out of season, we have never been in peak season and can imagine it could be unpleasant with an influx of travellers on roads and sites, but each to their own.
Bring board games etc and books as there will be rainy days!Written 30 October 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Maps1269744 contributionsWe got picked up at Inverness train station on our very first day in Highlands. We were greeted by our driver and guide. Both born and raised in highland. We felt warm welcomed especially this was our very first trip to Scotland. Dad couldn't get his eye off from the nature beauty, the cow (yes, the cow), the lake. I got to try on opening the water gate of the canal. We spent a good amount time in the Highlanders museum, which full of history and lots of display to see. Off course, much needed hot chocolate.
We went to the Clava Cairns and Culloden battlefield in the afternoon before returning. I was amazed to learn the ancient settlement and the Jacobite history.
If you are first timer,I definitely recommend this tour. it covers all highlights around Inverness and could not be missed.Written 9 December 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Rachel HHackham300 contributionsTook some time to have a look at this museum in the beautiful city of Inverness. It was on my list of things to do as on previous visits I never had the time to explore. Wonderful little museum with very interesting historical artefacts.Written 12 June 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Campbell6 contributionsEven a visit in winter is well worth it. The gardens will be wonderful in spring and summer but still relaxing to wander around. The tropical and cactus houses are exceptional, they may be small in size but are beautifully landscaped.Written 12 February 2025This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Considered ReviewNorwich, UK2,761 contributionsA fairly beautiful edifice nestling on the riverside on the opposite shore to the main body of the city centre. A Victorian example of redbrick solidity.Written 4 March 2025This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- VAMPLIFIEDHollywood, CA487 contributionsWhere else can you see the doorway that Aleister Crowley built and an outdoor stage that Jimmy Page built all on one tour date? While overlooking the great Loch Ness, the esoteric riddle of the day begins: Who is laughing his head off??? Is it Abra-Melin the Mage, the Headless God, or someone else? Take the guided tour and find out for yourself! As the Bornless Ritual secret lurks its way through every crack and crevice of the remains, this spirited house makes its presence known. Like a consecrated violin bow summoning a theremin's hard rock requiem, the come hither magical excursion begins. I imagine that a Les Paul sunburst sky arrives around sunset to cast its reflection upon the great Loch Ness waterway. Someday I would like to return and find out myself. Please note that the doorway itself is actually a converted window from the original structure. It was customized to evoke the spirits in a ceremonial ritual called "Knowledge and Conversation of the Holy Guardian Angel". This ritual is found in "Liber 777" which was written by Mr. Crowley himself. Later he went on to become a legendary icon in the world of rock n' roll... Avid Crowley fan and memorabilia collector, Jimmy Page of Led Zeppelin, purchased the former home before another interested party could. The other renown person wishing to buy the estate was fellow rocker, Ritchie Blackmore of Deep Purple. He too was an avid Crowley fan. Aleister also landed an epic spot on the front cover of The Beatles "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band" album. Heavy Metal Godfather, Ozzy Osbourne, played tribute in his song "Mr. Crowley". It became an all time classic rock n' roll hit with many artist remakes to follow. The BBC also honored Aleister as one of the greatest British public figures of all time. Set amongst a gorgeous countryside overlooking Loch Ness, the home of renowned poet, writer, and occultist Aleister Crowley, later became the home of Led Zeppelin's masterminded guitarist extraordinare and occultist, Jimmy Page. While under reconstruction, it now offers a walking tour open to the public by reserved appointment. Moving counterclockwise around the estate, the audio guided renovation project begins. It speaks of the former inhabitants and architectural style of the home Partially burned from primitive electrical wiring, it later became a victim to arson. Witness its actual reconstruction going on in real time. The establishment's construction crew is there to greet you upon arrival. You will soon realize that they are also your friendly designated tour guides working in conjunction with the guided audio tour. Remember to bring your earbuds. Members of the construction crew are there to answer questions, offer a stroll along the wildflower gardens, and see to it that you don't leave empty handed. The graveyard is located across the street at the water's edge. It contains tombstones, urns, church salvage, and a rare mort-house. There is a lot to see as the property is quite expansive. If you get a chance, stop along the way at Iain Burnett, The Highlander Chocolatier for a cinnamon truffle to consume Abramelin style. Appease those testy lil' sandstone salamanders! Complete your package with the official aromatic Abramelin Candle available at The Boleskine House website or grab some actual architectural relics from the estate. Overall a remarkable experience. May the Great Work continue. Thank you Keith and Steven for a wonderful tour!
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Trailer 'Trash' of "The Osbournes".Written 9 September 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Paul KWhitby, Canada27 contributionsWe stayed in Inverness for two overnights as part of a 7-day RIT (Royal Irish Tours) bus trip around Scotland. Starting in Glasgow, driving northeast into the Highlands, through spectacular scenic Glencoe to Fort William. After lunchtime stop, we boarded the bus again and stopped at ‘Neptune’s Staircase’, a ‘staircase lock’ comprising of 8 connected locks, the longest staircase lock in the UK. There are another 21 locks along the length of the Caledonia Canal, before it reaches the east coast near Inverness. We saw glimpses of other locks along the way as we drove through to Inverness, including stops at historic Urquhart Castle on Loch (Lake) Lomond and a short 1/2-hour boat tour "looking" for the legendary Lochness Monster! Inverness was a lovely city and we really enjoyed our stay at AC Hotel by Marriott, located near the River Ness. The next day we drove on a further northern route back west to the Isle of Skye, including town of Portree. On the way back east to Inverness, we had another enjoyable historic stop at Eilean Donan Castle. The next day we headed south, including stops at Culloden Battlefield, Kincraig sheep farm, St. Andrew's, onto final Edinburgh destination.Written 27 January 2025This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- CSGHTGlenlivet, UK9 contributionsArrived early with grandchildren to see Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. Went to cafe at midday to find most things sold out with only a few baguettes more suitable for adults left for sale. People were leaving the food queue in disgust having been advised that was all there was. Bearing in mind that a Chitty Chitty Bang Band matinee is predominantly populated by children and was a full house I would have expected cafe management and staff to do better. The show however was wonderful as is the theatre itself. .Written 15 September 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Colo_Traveler05Littleton, CO219 contributionsIt's a stunning castle. We wish it were open. We did get to walk around it but due to the fences we couldn't get as close as we would have liked. At least you can get close to the Flora McDonald statue.Written 27 April 2022This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
The above attraction descriptions were created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for any of the above attraction descriptions. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information.
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