Things to do in 

Inverness

The Scottish Highlands find their pulse in Inverness. It’s a city that comes alive with tales — the distant hum of bagpipes echoing from the city center, the scent of rain on cobblestone streets, the swoop of a bird over the River Ness. The lure of things to do in Inverness is in its contrasts. There are the echoes of ancient battles that linger around Culloden Moor, juxtaposed by the vibrant bustle in local pubs and eateries, and the tranquil charm of a slow boat ride on Loch Ness. In Inverness, history, nature, and flavor intertwine into a captivating tale waiting to be discovered.

Explore Inverness off the beaten path

Follow your curiosity to alternative things to do, slipping into small creative spaces, locals’ viewpoints, and markets where everyday Highland life hums along.

Cultural experiences: After dinner, head to Hootananny on Church Street for a ceilidh set and lively tunes upstairs. If you prefer something quieter, walk the river to Eden Court Theatre for an indie film or a small stage show.

Small museums and galleries: Pop into Inverness Museum and Art Gallery late morning for Pictish stones and Highland stories in bite‑size displays. Nearby, the Highland Print Studio sells striking, affordable prints made in‑house. The Castle Gallery rounds it out with contemporary Scottish art you can actually take home.

Less crowded scenic viewpoints: Climb Tomnahurich Hill in early evening for a peaceful look over the river and rooftops. For a wilder feel, hike up to Craig Phadrig’s hill‑fort and watch golden light roll over the Beauly Firth.

Shop for local products & souvenirs: Browse the Victorian Market late morning for small makers’ stalls, smoked fish, and fresh bakes. Lose an hour at Leakey’s Bookshop among maps and well‑loved Highland titles. For textiles, step into Highland House of Fraser on Huntly Street to see kiltmaking and pick up a wool scarf made nearby; if it’s the first Saturday of the month, swing by the farmers’ market on Eastgate for heather honey.

Popular neighbourhoods

Immerse yourself in Inverness' tapestry of diverse neighbourhoods, curated through rich history and gifted with unparalleled natural beauty that beckon you to explore and appreciate.

City Centre: Wander around the beating heart of Inverness, discovering an elixir of shopping centers, restaurants, and historic buildings adorning the neighbourhood with charm and vivacity.

Old Town: Explore the city’s treasure-trove of historical architecture, musing over the enchanting Inverness Castle and Cathedral that are cradled within this district.

River Ness: Bask in tranquillity while traversing the serene riverside, painted with picturesque sights of arching bridges and vibrant murals radiating local culture.

Ness Islands: Unwind amidst an oasis of quiet, strolling through this green paradise engulfed by River Ness, dotted with scenic footbridges and quaint trails.

Returns to Culloden: Step back in time on the historic battlegrounds of the 1746 Jacobite Rising, lingering amidst the poignant memorial stones that bear silent witness to the past.

Things to do in Inverness by season

Spring: Often the best time to visit Inverness, spring sets daffodils along the River Ness and brings soft light to Culloden and clifftop castles. Families head for Loch Ness cruises while seniors enjoy leisurely rambles through the Victorian Market and along the Ness Islands.

Summer: For things to do in Inverness in summer, use long daylight for canal walks, hill hikes, and evenings with fiddles in local pubs. Couples trace whisky notes in nearby distilleries, and luxury travellers settle into loch‑view tables for late sunsets.

Fall: Expect russet woods along the Caledonian Canal and bracing air on the Black Isle. Browse farm shops and small food festivals, then wander quiet ruins as photographers chase mist over the Great Glen.

Winter: Christmas in Inverness brings lights in the city centre, carols in the cathedral, and cosy firesides when nights arrive early. Hogmanay fills streets with ceilidh steps and fireworks, and families scout for wintry views around Loch Ness between showers.

Annual fixtures include the Inverness Highland Games, Northern Meeting piping events, the Inverness Film Festival at Eden Court, Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival nearby, and lively Christmas and Hogmanay celebrations across the city.