Discover Inverness: What to See and Do
Nestled in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, Inverness is a charming city where history, culture, and rugged natural beauty come together. Whether you’re wandering along the River Ness, exploring centuries-old castles, or using the city as a base for Highland adventures, there’s something here for every traveler. From cozy cafés to dramatic landscapes and legendary lochs, this guide will help you make the most of your time in Inverness.
Local Attractions
Welcome to Inverness, a city where the River Ness meets the sea and Highland spirit fills every street. From cosy coffee shops and celebrated restaurants to legendary landscapes and historic sites, this guide brings together the best of where to eat, drink and explore during your stay. If you need help planning or booking an excursion please ask.
Where to Eat in Inverness
Café 1
75 Church Street, IV2 3EA A favourite for refined dining with a relaxed atmosphere. The Early Bird Menu (3–6pm) offers excellent value, while the evening à la carte showcases local Highland produce.
Rocpool
1 Ness Walk, IV3 5NE A well‑known fine dining spot overlooking the River Ness. A lovely choice for an unhurried evening meal if you're treating yourself.
The Mustard Seed
16 Fraser Street, IV1 1DW Set in a converted church with a wood‑burning fire and upstairs views of the river. Award‑winning dishes and a warm, welcoming feel.
Coyote Burgers
27 Bank Street, IV1 1QU Smash burgers at their messy, flavourful best. Casual, fun and very satisfying.
Black Isle Bar
68 Church Street, IV1 1EN Craft beer and wood‑fired pizzas served in a lively, rustic space. Top Tip: Head up to the rooftop beer garden on sunny days.
Inverness Coffee Roasting Company
15 Chapel Street, IV1 1NA Small-batch beans roasted locally. A great place to pick up coffee to take home.
The Original Milk Bar
3 Ness Walk, IV3 5NE Excellent coffee and pastries, with an additional smaller shop in the Victorian Market.
Girvans
2–4 Stephens Brae, IV2 3JN Reliable breakfasts and home baking at the top of the High Street.
Café Artysans
7 Strothers Lane, IV1 1LR A social enterprise café supporting local young people. Simple, fresh and locally sourced food.
Bad Girl Bakery
Victoria Market, IV1 1AN Indulgent cakes, brownies and sandwiches in the heart of the Victorian Market.
The Bakery
72 Tomnahurich Street, IV3 5DT Fresh bread, pastries and a small deli counter — ideal for picnic supplies.
Pubs and Bars
The Heathmount
Kingsmills Road, IV2 3JU Stylish, relaxed and known for excellent cocktails, whisky and gin.
Corriegarth
5–7 Heathmount Road, IV2 3JU Just a few steps from The Heathmount. A cosy pub with a fireplace and hearty meals.
The Walrus and Corkscrew
105 Church Street, IV1 1EY A small, intimate wine bar offering tasting flights and sharing boards.
MacGregor’s
113 Academy Street, IV1 1LX Frequently named among the best bars in Scotland. Live traditional music and an impressive selection of local spirits.
The Wee Bar
Upstairs, 4–6 Ness Walk, IV3 5NE A charming hideaway for trying Scottish gin and whisky.
The Malt Room
34 Church Street, IV1 1EH Inverness’ dedicated whisky bar — warm, knowledgeable and ideal for guided tastings.
Things to Do in and Around Inverness
Leakey’s Bookshop
A vast second‑hand bookshop set in a converted church, complete with a wood‑burning stove. A must‑visit.
The Victorian Market
Independent shops, local food vendors and often live music. A lovely rainy‑day stop.
Culloden Battlefield
Walk the site of the final Jacobite battle and visit the excellent museum and visitor centre.
Clava Cairns
A Bronze Age burial site just minutes from Culloden. Free, atmospheric and open all year.
Cawdor Castle
A beautiful 16th‑century castle surrounded by woodland and gardens.
Brodie Castle
A historic estate set in parkland with a café and walking paths.
Loch Ness
Only 30 minutes from Inverness. Boat trips with Jacobite Cruises are a particularly scenic way to see the loch.
Urquhart Castle
A dramatic ruined castle overlooking Loch Ness, with sweeping views and an engaging audio tour.
Dores Beach
A peaceful shoreline with striking sunset views — and a great stop at The Dores Inn nearby.
Highland Malt Whisky Experience
Hosted at MacGregor’s (April–October), featuring guided tastings of Highland distilleries.
Isle of Skye (Day or Multi‑Day Tours)
Many organised tours depart from Inverness, making Skye accessible even without a car.
Uile‑Bheist Brewery & Distillery
A modern distillery with tours and tastings in the city.
Tomatin Distillery
A world‑renowned whisky distillery only a short drive away.
Inverness Museum & Art Gallery
A helpful introduction to the history and culture of the Highlands. Free entry.
Inverness Castle
Currently closed for refurbishment until 2025. A rooftop viewing platform is available for panoramic city views.
Enjoy your time in Inverness — the landscapes, the stories and the hospitality here stay with you long after you leave.
Getting Around
Inverness is compact and easy to explore on foot. For day trips, buses and trains run regularly, but hiring a car gives the most flexibility.
Top Tip: In summer, buses to popular destinations can sell out — book in advance whenever possible.
Taxis
Use SafeKab on 01463 222 222 or via their app.
Note: The Uber app will quote fares, but Uber is not active in Inverness — so taxis must be booked locally.