Inverness

The City of Inverness is the gateway to the Highlands of Scotland and the surrounding area. It makes an ideal place for you to visit on your final night, with a wide selection of restaurants, bars, cafes and activities to keep all members of your party satisfied. Inverness also gives you the opportunity to extend your holiday in the area by staying in one of its many B&B’s, hotels or other accommodation options to allow you to explore the old town with all its charm. The City Centre is within walking distance of the boat yard (approximately 30 minutes) or alternatively only about 5-10 minutes in a car or taxi (depending on traffic).

The Inverness Tourist Information Centre is located on Bridge Street up some steps overlooking the road. They offer a wide range of services including free local and national information, travel, tour and transport advice including tickets and local and national accommodation bookings. Bureau de change and Internet access is available also.
Tel: 08452 255121

Sights & Walks

Inverness Castle – This magnificent castle overlooks the River Ness. It is a red sand stone structure and was built in 1836 by architect William Burn on the site of an 11th century defensive structure. Today, the castle houses Inverness Sheriff Court and is not open to the public; however you can walk around the grounds and admire the statue of Flora MacDonald.

St Andrew’s Cathedral - On the opposite bank of the river is Saint Andrew's Cathedral (minus its spires as the funds ran out before they could be completed). The font is a copy of Thorwalden's font in Copenhagen Cathedral. Look out for the Russian gold icons. The teashop in the old schoolhouse is open Monday to Saturday 10.30am to 3.30pm in the summer months.

Ness Islands - Walk down along the river banks (in the direction of the Caledonian Canal) and you'll find the Ness Islands where you can escape from the hustle and bustle of the shops. Cross the river on the little bridges and you can visit Bught Park. Close by you will find the Floral Hall where you will discover a superb array of subtropical plants, a cascading waterfall and a pool full of friendly Koi Carp. If you plan to visit Ness Islands in the peak season from July to October, you can watch anglers casting long lines to leaping Atlantic salmon. Buy a daily ticket and try it for yourself.

Culloden Battlefield - The Battle of Culloden which took place on the 16 April 1746 was the final clash between the French-supported Jacobites and the Hanoverian British Government. It was the last battle ever to be fought on British soil. Nowadays you can visit the battlefield itself along with its exciting new visitor centre and interactive exhibition. Regular buses leave from Inverness Bus Station daily or alternatively you can take your own transport. Open daily, all year. Adult admission price approx £10.
Tel: 0844 493 2159

Activities

Inverness Leisure – Offering a wide range of sports and leisure facilities including a 25 metre competition pool and a leisure pool for all members of the family. Inverness Leisure is located in Bught Park, close to the River Ness and the Caledonian Canal. Open daily.
Tel: 01463 667500

Boots N Paddles – For all those adrenalin junkies amongst you Boots N Paddles will be able to fulfill your needs! They provide a wide range of outdoor activities all across the Highlands. Activities on offer include sea kayaking, canyoning and abseiling.
Tel: 0845 6125567

 

Merkinch Local Nature Reserve - A hidden Gem in the heart of Inverness full of wild life such as roe deer, owls, weasels, herons, cormorants and wading birds of various descriptions.  If you're lucky you may even spot the Kingfishers at the Muirtown pools; even the occasional Osprey can be seen visiting the area.  Based in an area of 54.7 hectares in the South Kessock area, the habitats include salt marsh, fresh water marsh with reed beds, bog scrub and wooded embankments.

 

Torvean Golf Club – Located on the outskirts of Inverness on the A82, Torvean Golf Club is an 18-hole parkland style golf course. The club is open to the general public and the informal nature of the club appeals not only to the serious golfer but also to those wishing to try golf for the first time!
Tel: 01463 225651

 

Loch Ness Golf Course, Fairways - Fairways, the home to a host of activities is located on the south west edge of Inverness.  It enjoys the best of the countryside but is still within easy reach of the city centre.  The Inverness Southern Distributor road brings you right to the door (and the free car park!) and for those thinking about their carbon footprint there is also a regular bus service.  Once you arrive there is much to choose from - a leisurely cofee in the lounge, followed by a basket of balls on the driving range.  If your game isn't up to scratch you can take a quick lesson from one of the Professionals in their custom built teaching bay using the latest digital technology.  There is an 18-hole course, or the 9-hole course if you are a bit short of time; then back to the restaurant for lunch and  a relaxing drink.  If you need other ideas to entertain your family there are forest walks, petanque and indoor bowls available. T:  01463 713335

 

Inverness Museum & Art Gallery - Located in the same building as the Tourist Information Centre; the entrance is at the back of this building and can be accessed from Castle Wynd.  The museum and Art Gallery explores Scottish history, is free of charge and also has a coffee shop. Tel:  01463 237114

 

Eden Court Theatre – Located near Bught Park, this fantastic theatre, cinema and arts venue has recently undergone a complete refurbishment and major extension. The theatre hosts large array of performances and screenings daily. There is also a restaurant, cafe and licensed bar located within the theatre.
Tel: 01463 234234

Vue Cinema – This cinema complex located within the Inverness Retail Park has over 10 screens and always has the latest movies on show. Tickets can be booked in advance online or via the number below.
Tel: 0871 224 0240

Rollerbowl – With 24 bowling lanes, 9 pool tables, a good selection of arcade games and snacks served daily, Rollerbowl has something to keep all the family entertained.
Tel: 01463 235100

Restaurants, Bars & Cafes

Clachnaharry Inn – If you fancy some pub grub and real ale within walking distance then this is the place to go! Walk along the canal, past Muirtown Locks to the traffic lights, turn left and continue along the road until you see the Inn on the right. Approx 15 minutes by foot.
Clachnaharry Road, Inverness, IV3 8RB
Tel: 01463 239806

Rocpool Restaurant – A trendy city-centre brasserie offering fantastic seafood dishes and local produce located on the banks of the River Ness. Booking in advance is recommended.
1 Ness Walk, Inverness, IV3 5NE
Tel: 01463 717274

Pizza Express – Located right next to Inverness Railway Station this chain restaurant is one of the best pizzerias in town with a vast menu including pasta and salad dishes.
Unit B, Eastgate Centre, Inverness, IV2 3PP
Tel: 01463 709700

Cinnamon – Specializing in Bangladeshi and Indian cuisine Cinnamon is extremely popular with locals and tourists alike. This restaurant is easily accessible from the city centre.
1b Millburn Road, Inverness, IV2 3PX
Tel: 01463 716020

River Café & Restaurant – Sitting on the banks of the River Ness this lovely little restaurant offers excellent cuisine made from fresh local ingredients.
10 Bank Street, Inverness, IV1 1QY
Tel: 01463 714884

Nico’s – Located within the Glen Mhor Hotel along the River Ness, Nico’s offers a fine selection of local seafood and grill dishes making the most of local, fresh produce.
Glen Mhor Hotel, Ness Bank, Inverness, IV2 4SG
Tel: 01463 234308

Café 1 – This lovely little restaurant in the city-centre serves fresh local produce cooked with creativity and flair. The owner Norman and his dedicated team of staff are always on hand to help and keen to please. They can get extremely busy for both lunch and dinner so pre-booking is essential.
75 Castle Street, Inverness, IV2 3EA
Tel: 01463 226200

Contrast – Another one of Inverness’s popular restaurants is Contrast, located within the Glenmoriston Town House Hotel on the River Ness. They offer a two-course lunch menu from just £6.95 per person, and a full a la carte menu is available for both lunch and dinner with the restaurant open until 10.00 pm daily. Serving great Scottish produce cooked with a French flair.
20 Ness Bank, Inverness, IV2 4SF
Tel: 01463 223777

Takeaways

Raj Tandoori – Excellent Indian takeaway for collection or local delivery.
Unit 3B, Smithton Industrial Estate, Smithton, Inverness, IV2 7WL
Tel: 01463 798800

1st Pizza Direct – Pizzas, kebabs, burgers, fish & chips and more for collection or local delivery.
Units 2 and 3, Glenurquhart Road, Inverness, IV3 5NZ
Tel: 01463 717171

Charlie Chans – Chinese food for collection or takeaway.
3 Tomnahurich Street, Inverness, IV3 5DA
Tel: 01463 232884

 

Mr Rice – Chinese Food for collection or takeaway
37B Telford Street, Inverness I3 5LD
Tel: 01463 717575

 

Taxis & Transport

Highland Taxis – 01463 222222

City Taxis – 01463 222555

Tartan Taxis – 01463 222777

Shops

Co-op – Only a few minutes by car or a 15 minute walk from the boat yard.
74 Telford Street, Telford Retail Park, Inverness, IV3 5LS
Opening Times: Mon-Tues 07:30-20:00, Wed-Fri 07:30-21:00, Sat 08:00-20:00, Sun 09:00-18:00

Lidl – Located just along the road past the co-op shop.
Telford Street, Inverness, IV3 5LU
Opening Times: Mon-Fri 08:00-22:00, Sat 08:00-22:00, Sun 10:00-21:00