The Ultimate Guide to Inverness: The Capital of the Highlands

​Just a short, scenic drive from your Escape Cottages base in the Cairngorms or Nairn lies Inverness, the vibrant Capital of the Highlands. Whether you are hunting for the Loch Ness Monster, exploring Outlander film locations, or seeking family fun, Inverness offers a perfect blend of city culture and rugged adventure.

​ Top Sights & Historic Landmarks

​Inverness Castle & Viewpoint: For the best seat in the house, visit the Castle Viewpoint. It offers a stunning 360-degree view of the city and the River Ness.

​Culloden Battlefield: Walk the atmospheric moors where the final Jacobite Rising came to an end. It is a must-see for history buffs.

​Clava Cairns: Just a stone's throw from Culloden, these 4,000-year-old burial mounds are a sacred site and a huge hit for Outlander fans.

​Inverness Cathedral: A beautiful example of Highland architecture located right on the riverbanks.

​Abertarff House: Step back in time at the oldest house in Inverness, dating back to 1593.

​The Scottish Kiltmaker Visitor Centre: Learn the true craft behind Scotland’s national dress.

​ Unique Shopping & Culture

​Leakey’s Bookshop: Housed in an old Gaelic church, this is Scotland’s largest second-hand bookshop. With its wood-burning stove and spiral staircases, it is a bibliophile’s dream.

​The Victorian Market: A hidden gem in the city center featuring local makers, quaint shops, and a stunning wooden roof.

​Eden Court Theatre: The cultural heart of the North, offering independent films, theater, and snacks by the water.

​Inverness Museum and Art Gallery: Discover the Pictish silver and Highland history that shaped this region.

​ Nature & Great Outdoors

​Ness Islands: Escape the city bustle with a 3-mile circular walk across pretty Victorian footbridges. This is the most popular dog walk in the city!

​Inverness Botanic Gardens: A tranquil, free-to-visit oasis featuring tropical houses and a cactus collection.

​Caledonian Canal: Perfect for a flat stroll or cycling, watching the canal boats navigate the locks.

​Craig Phadrig: Climb this hill for a rewarding hike to the site of an ancient Vitrified Fort with views over the Beauly Firth.

​ Adventure & Activities

​The Loch Ness Monster: Take a short drive to the world-famous Loch Ness. Will you be the one to spot "Nessie"?

​Dolphin Spirit Boat Trip: Head out to the Moray Firth to look for our famous resident colony of Bottlenose Dolphins.

​Inverness Aquadome & Leisure Waters: The perfect rainy-day activity for families, featuring flumes and a lazy river.

​Inverness Kart Raceway: For those with a need for speed, this indoor go-karting track is a top-rated attraction.

​Highland Aviation: For a truly bucket-list experience, book a private flight to see the Highlands from the air.

​ Day Trips Near Inverness

​Local Distilleries: The Inverness area is home to world-famous whisky. Visit Glen Ord or Tomatin for a tour and a "wee dram."

​Wardlaw Mausoleum & Beauly Priory: Essential stops for Outlander fans wishing to see the resting place of the real "Old Fox" Lord Lovat.

​Robertsons Farm Shop: Stop here for local Highland produce and to meet their famous Highland Cows (Heilan' Coos!).

​ Travel & Getting Around

​Inverness is the main transport hub for the North of Scotland, making it easy to reach your cottage or explore the wider area.

​Inverness Airport: Offering domestic and international connections.

​Train & Bus: The central stations provide easy links to Aviemore, Kingussie, and Newtonmore.

​Taxis: Reliable local services are available 24/7 for city transfers.

​City Sightseeing Bus: A "Hop-On, Hop-Off" open-top bus is the easiest way to see all the major landmarks in one go.

​ Your Home in the Highlands

​After a busy day exploring the capital, retreat to the peace and quiet of Nairn or the Cairngorms. Escape Cottages Scotland offers luxury, hand-picked holiday homes in Grantown-on-Spey, Aviemore, and beyond.

​