If you’re visiting Inverness for the first time, you’ll quickly realise it’s much more than a stop on the way to somewhere else. It’s a brilliant base for exploring the Highlands, with loads to see nearby, and plenty to do right in the city too.
Below is a list of some of the best things to do in Inverness and the surrounding area. It’s not meant to be a complete guide (that would take a book), but it covers a mix of the places visitors ask us about most, plus a few local favourites. For a deeper dive into the city and region -history, culture, wildlife and day trips -see our Inverness and the Surrounding Highlands: The Ultimate Local Guide.
We’ll keep adding to this list over time. If there’s somewhere you think we should include, get in touch and we’ll take a look.
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Culloden Battlefield
Culloden Battlefield is one of those places that stays with you.
It’s the site of the Battle of Culloden (16th April 1746), the final battle of the Jacobite Rising. Even if you’re not massively into history, it’s hard not to feel the weight of what happened here. The moor is quiet, open, and surprisingly emotional when you’re standing on it.
It’s also an easy stop to combine with Clava Cairns and a Loch Ness day.
Culloden House Hotel
Culloden House is steeped in history and has strong links to the Jacobite Rising.
The house was once the seat of Lord President Forbes, and it was requisitioned by the Jacobites just days before the Battle of Culloden. Bonnie Prince Charlie stayed here, and the grounds were used as part of the Jacobite headquarters.
Today it’s a luxury hotel. Afternoon tea and dinner are both available, but you’ll want to book in advance, especially during the busy season.
Clava Cairns
Clava Cairns is one of the best ancient sites near Inverness, and it’s over 4,000 years old.
It’s made up of burial cairns and standing stones, and it’s a place that feels calm and atmospheric no matter what the weather is doing. Outlander fans will recognise it too, as it’s believed to have inspired parts of Diana Gabaldon’s story.
If you’re already heading to Culloden, it’s only a short drive away and well worth adding in.
Inverness Castle
Inverness Castle is one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks, sitting above the River Ness.
At the moment it’s closed to the public due to redevelopment, but it’s still worth walking up for the views across the city and down the river. The current building dates back to the 1800s, but the site itself has been important for centuries.
The Old High Church
The Old High Church is a really interesting stop if you like history, and it’s right in the city.
It overlooks the River Ness and is connected to the aftermath of Culloden, when Jacobite prisoners were held and executed. It’s not a huge attraction, but it’s one of those places that gives you a proper sense of Inverness’ past.
A Walk Along the River Ness and the Ness Islands
If you want a walk that feels peaceful without leaving the city, the Ness Islands are perfect.
It’s one of the nicest walks in Inverness. You’ll see wildlife, you’ll get great views along the river, and it’s the sort of place where you can forget you’re in a city at all. It’s ideal in the morning, or later in the evening when it’s quieter.
Ness Islands Miniature Railway
This one is a brilliant wee stop if you’ve got kids with you, or if you just fancy doing something different.
The miniature railway runs near Whin Park and the Ness Islands. It’s operated by the Highland Hospice, and it’s a fun little experience that always puts a smile on people’s faces.
Inverness Cathedral (St Andrew’s Cathedral)
The cathedral sits right beside the River Ness and is well worth popping into if you’re walking around town.
It’s peaceful inside, it’s a lovely building, and it’s a good one to include if you want a quieter stop away from the busy parts of the city centre.
Victorian Market
The Victorian Market is a nice one to wander through, especially if the weather isn’t great.
It’s small, traditional, and feels like a little hidden corner of Inverness. It’s not a huge “tourist attraction” as such, but visitors often enjoy it because it feels local.
It also has a really good food court, which makes it a great option for lunch in the city centre.
Leakey’s Bookshop
Leakey’s is one of the most unique places in Inverness.
It’s a massive second-hand bookshop inside an old church building, with books stacked everywhere. Even if you’re not a big reader, it’s worth visiting just for the atmosphere.
Rogie Falls
Rogie Falls is a great wee stop if you fancy a short walk and a proper Highland waterfall.
It’s an easy walk from the car park, and during salmon season you can often see salmon leaping upstream, which is always a good moment if you catch it.
Farm Ness
Farm Ness is a great stop if you’re travelling with kids, or if you just want something a bit more relaxed.
It’s a working farm with a shop and café, and it was featured on BBC Two’s This Farming Life. You can meet the animals (including Highland cows, alpacas and pygmy goats), and they also sell their own farm produce.
It’s a nice one to include on a Loch Ness day.
Loch Ness
Loch Ness is the obvious one, but it’s famous for a reason.
It’s only a short drive from Inverness and it’s one of the best places in the Highlands for scenery, history, and just getting that “Scotland feeling” people come here for.
If you’re heading to Loch Ness, a few good stops to consider are:
- Dores Beach
- Falls of Foyers
- Fort Augustus
- Urquhart Castle
If you want it all planned for you, take a look at our Loch Ness private tour.
Planning a day in Inverness?
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Dores Beach is one of the nicest viewpoints on Loch Ness, and it’s very easy to get to from Inverness.
It’s a great place to stop for photos, a short walk along the shore, or just a breather with a view down the loch. The Dores Inn is nearby too if you want food or a drink.
Falls of Foyers
Falls of Foyers is one of the best waterfalls near Loch Ness.
It’s a short woodland walk, and then you get this proper dramatic drop into the gorge below. It’s a great one for photos and it’s a stop people always remember.
Urquhart Castle
Urquhart Castle sits right on the shores of Loch Ness and it’s one of the most visited castles in Scotland.
It’s got a long history, a brilliant setting, and it’s one of those places that just looks exactly how people imagine Scotland to look. It’s also a great spot to combine with a Loch Ness cruise if that’s something you fancy doing.
Beauly Priory
Beauly Priory is a lovely stop, and it’s only a short drive from Inverness.
It dates back to around 1230 and has links to the Lovat Frasers and the Mackenzies.
It’s also a popular stop for Outlander fans. The ruins are beautiful and it’s a peaceful place to wander around.
Beaufort Castle
Beaufort Castle is the seat of the Lovat Frasers.
The castle itself is private, but you can still enjoy the area and get views from public points nearby. It’s a nice addition if you’re already exploring around Beauly.
Wardlaw Mausoleum (Kirkhill)
Wardlaw Mausoleum is in Wardlaw Graveyard in Kirkhill and was built in 1634 as the burial place of the Lovat Frasers.
You can explore the graveyard any time, but if you want to see inside the mausoleum you’ll usually need to arrange that in advance or visit with an approved guide.
Castle Leod
Castle Leod is the seat of Clan Mackenzie and a great stop if you’re interested in Highland clan history.
The grounds are lovely, and there’s an ancient tree walk with some trees dating back to the 1500s. It’s also a good one to include on an Outlander-themed day.
Knockfarrel (“The Cat’s Back”)
If you’re up for a short hike with a big reward at the top, Knockfarrel is a great choice.
It’s an Iron Age vitrified fort near Strathpeffer, and the views from the summit are cracking. On a clear day you can see right across the surrounding countryside.
Chanonry Point (Dolphin Watching)
Chanonry Point is one of the best places in Scotland to see dolphins, and it’s not far from Inverness.
If you time it right (usually around the tide), you’ve got a good chance of seeing bottlenose dolphins feeding in the Moray Firth. It’s a brilliant experience when you catch it.
Fort George
Fort George is a huge 18th-century fortress just outside Inverness, built after Culloden.
It’s a great stop if you like military history, and the views across the Moray Firth are excellent as well. It’s also usually quieter than some of the bigger attractions.
Cawdor Castle and Gardens
Cawdor Castle is one of the best castles near Inverness, with beautiful gardens and a proper Highland feel.
It’s a good one to include if you want a classic castle visit without travelling too far.
Things to Do in Inverness in One Day (Suggested Itinerary)
If you’ve only got one day in Inverness, this is a great way to see a mix of the city and the best nearby attractions without rushing.
- Morning (Inverness City Centre)
Start with a walk along the River Ness and around the Ness Islands. After that, head into the city centre and visit the Victorian Market (the food court is a great option for lunch or a quick bite). - Early Afternoon (History Near Inverness)
Drive out to Culloden Battlefield, then continue on to Clava Cairns. These two stops work perfectly together and give you a brilliant feel for Highland history and ancient Scotland. - Late Afternoon (Loch Ness Highlights)
Finish the day at Loch Ness, choosing either Dores Beach for views and a relaxed stop, or Urquhart Castle if you want a classic Loch Ness experience. - Optional Add-On (If You Have Extra Time)
If you’ve got the time and the weather is good, add in Falls of Foyers for one of the best waterfalls in the area.
Frequently Asked Questions About Inverness (2026)
Is Inverness worth visiting?
Yes, Inverness is absolutely worth visiting. It’s a great Highland city with plenty to do, and it’s also the perfect base for exploring nearby places like Loch Ness, Culloden Battlefield, Clava Cairns and several excellent castles and scenic walks.
What are the best things to do in Inverness in one day?
If you only have one day, a good plan is to explore the River Ness and city centre first, then head out to Culloden Battlefield and Clava Cairns. If you’ve got time, finish the day with a Loch Ness stop like Dores Beach or Urquhart Castle.
What are the best day trips from Inverness?
Some of the best day trips from Inverness include Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle, Falls of Foyers, Fort George, Cawdor Castle, and dolphin spotting at Chanonry Point.
How far is Loch Ness from Inverness?
Loch Ness is very close to Inverness. Depending on where you stop, it’s usually around 20–30 minutes’ drive from the city centre, which makes it ideal for a half-day or full-day trip.
What’s best for Outlander fans near Inverness?
Outlander fans often love visiting Clava Cairns, Culloden Battlefield, and locations around Beauly such as Beauly Priory and Castle Leod, which link in nicely with Highland clan history.
What are the best historical places to visit near Inverness?
Culloden Battlefield, Clava Cairns, the Old High Church, Fort George, Urquhart Castle, and Beauly Priory are some of the best historical places to visit in and around Inverness.
Are there family-friendly things to do in Inverness?
Yes. Families often enjoy the Ness Islands walk, the miniature railway near Whin Park, Farm Ness, and exploring the city centre. Loch Ness is also a great family day out, especially when combined with a castle stop.
Where can you see dolphins near Inverness?
Chanonry Point is one of the best places in Scotland to see bottlenose dolphins, and it’s an easy trip from Inverness. The best sightings are often around the tide.
What are the best walks in Inverness?
The River Ness walk and the Ness Islands are the most popular walks in the city. They’re scenic, peaceful and easy to access from the city centre.
If you’d like to explore the Highlands without the stress of driving, we offer private tours from Inverness, and we also run a chauffeur service in Inverness for transfers and multi-day itineraries.
