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Inverness

With its spectacular setting on the River Ness and the Moray Firth, Inverness is the gateway to the Highlands. There has been a settlement here since as far back as the 6th century, but things changed dramatically when The Great Charter of Inverness was granted by James IV in 1592 – and the Highland capital has prospered ever since, not least in more recent decades when it has grown into a thriving regional city and cultural hub.

The popular perception of the Scottish Highlands is as a series of rural communities, but this is not the case. Just as central to the spirit of Highlands are its urban centres.

Today, with its go-ahead attitude steeped in traditional culture, the City of Inverness is a great place to spend time and the perfect base from which to explore the numerous historic sites and scenic landmarks to be found in the surrounding area.

Welcome to your Highland gateway

With a rich variety of things to see and do, the attractive city of Inverness and the straths and glens that surround it offers up much for visitors. From world famous attractions to a whole host of lesser-known gems, this picturesque Highland gateway presents you with a treasure trove of mysteries, monsters, and traditional music to discover and enjoy every day of the year.

What’s more, with a superb selection of culinary and cultural experiences on offer, from riverside restaurants and renowned theatres to bustling pavement cafés and colourful botanic gardens, there’s plenty here to cater for all tastes at all times.

So, as the Gaelic signs on the city outskirts proclaim, ‘ceud mile fàilte’ or ‘one hundred thousand welcomes’ to Inverness. Relax here, unwind, stay awhile, and take your time to discover a vibrant and ambitious modern city set against its stunning backdrop of the blue-white waters of the Moray Firth and the dark silhouettes of the Highland mountains.

Plan your visit

Places to Stay

Things to Do

Food and Drink

A Local View

Get Inspired

Tom nan Sìthichean ʼs Choinnich Odhair (The ‘Fairy Hill’ of Inverness)

Air crìoch an iar-dheas Inbhir Nis, tha cnoc cas drùidhteach ann an cumadh slige bàta bun-os-cionn. Tha Tom na h-Iùbhraich a-nise na chladh, le clachan-uaighe air a mhullach agus aig a bhonn. Am measg na tha tiodhlaichte ann, tha Uilleam MacBhàtair, fear de phrìomh sgoilearan na Gàidhlig anns an fhicheadamh linn.

A skyline of buildings taken at dusk with Ness river in the foreground.

Power to the People from Great Highland Rivers

Discover the Highlands and Islands as a centre for hydro power.

Inside the metal grates of the Hydro Ness, a generator for hydroelectric power. The River Ness lined with trees is visible on the left of the image.

An Ever-Changing Tapestry of Art Galleries and Craft Events

Discover the awe-inspiring works of local communities.

A Yarn About The Gellions

Learn all about this author's interesting family ties to the iconic Gellions Bar, Inverness.

View north onto Bridge Street, Inverness. A carved stone sculpture of a dog appears on the left hand side of the image. Shop buildings line both sides of the street.

Land Reform Heroes Jailed in Inverness Castle

"Those reformers embodied the Spirit of the Highlands, eventually achieving positive crofting legislation in Westminster, but much remains to be done today..."

A photograph of a stone sheepfold at Badstor, Sutherland.

Outlander & Inverness

Outlander has enjoyed phenomenal success with millions of people gripped by the unfolding storylines. Many local landmarks feature in the books ranging from castles, historic houses, churches and battlefields to retail shops and coastal locations. If you're a fan of the series, a tour of Inverness and its historic landmarks are a must!