Inverness Botanic Gardens
Discover Inverness’s tranquil botanical oasis with diverse plant collections, seasonal displays, and a welcoming café in a peaceful garden setting.
Nestled in the heart of Inverness, the Inverness Botanic Gardens offer a serene green oasis showcasing diverse plant collections in both outdoor gardens and tropical glasshouses. Open daily with free entry by donation, the gardens provide a peaceful retreat for nature lovers, families, and visitors seeking seasonal floral displays, educational exhibits, and a charming café experience.
A brief summary to Inverness Botanic Gardens
- Bught Ln, Inverness, IV3 5SS, GB
- +441463701019
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9:30 am-3:45 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-3:45 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-3:45 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-3:45 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-3:45 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-3:45 pm
- Sunday 9:30 am-3:45 pm
Local tips
- Entry is free, but donations are appreciated to help maintain the gardens.
- Visit the tropical glasshouse for a warm, exotic plant experience year-round.
- Enjoy refreshments at the on-site café, often set within a greenhouse environment.
- Combine your visit with a walk to the nearby Ness Islands for extended nature exploration.
- Check for seasonal events like the family-friendly Halloween Trail in October.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Local bus services from Inverness city center to Bught Lane take approximately 10-15 minutes. Buses run frequently during the day, with a single fare around £2.50. Note that service frequency may reduce in evenings and on Sundays.
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Car
Driving to Inverness Botanic Gardens from the city center takes about 5-10 minutes. Limited on-site parking is available, and nearby public parking lots may require a fee of approximately £1-£3 per hour. Traffic can be busy during peak hours.
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Walking
From central Inverness, a pleasant 30-40 minute walk along the River Ness and through Bught Park leads to the gardens. The route is mostly flat and suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
Inverness Botanic Gardens location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Inverness Botanic Gardens
A Living Collection of Botanical Diversity
The Inverness Botanic Gardens are a vibrant showcase of plant life from around the world, featuring both outdoor gardens and extensive glasshouse environments. Visitors can explore themed areas such as tropical rainforests, arid deserts, and temperate zones, each housing carefully curated species that thrive in their respective climates. The gardens' living collections are continually evolving, offering changing displays that reflect the seasons and highlight rare or unusual plants.A Historic and Community-Focused Green Space
Established as a community hub, the gardens have long served Inverness as a place for education, leisure, and conservation. They host a variety of events and activities throughout the year, including family-friendly trails like the popular Halloween Trail in October. The gardens also function as a training center and wedding venue, blending botanical beauty with cultural and social experiences.Visitor Experience and Amenities
Visitors enjoy a peaceful stroll through accessible pathways suitable for wheelchairs and families with children. The on-site café, often set within a greenhouse, offers refreshments and light meals, enhancing the tranquil atmosphere. Ample seating areas and information boards provide rest and learning opportunities. The gardens encourage donations to support maintenance and development, maintaining free entry to all.Seasonal Highlights and Events
Throughout the year, the gardens transform with the changing seasons, presenting vibrant spring blooms, lush summer foliage, and autumnal colors. Special events, such as educational workshops and seasonal trails, engage visitors of all ages. The tropical house is a year-round highlight, providing a warm, exotic escape even in Scotland’s colder months.Setting and Surroundings
Situated on Bught Lane within Inverness, the gardens are part of a larger green space that includes nearby attractions like the Ness Islands and River Ness. This location offers visitors a chance to combine botanical exploration with riverside walks and scenic views, enriching the overall experience of Inverness’s natural beauty.Commitment to Sustainability and Education
The gardens emphasize sustainable practices and environmental education, fostering awareness of plant conservation and biodiversity. As a locally managed site, they promote eco-friendly initiatives and serve as a valuable resource for both casual visitors and botanical enthusiasts, supporting a deeper connection to nature in an urban setting.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lochardil House
0.9 km
Historic charm meets peaceful gardens and warm hospitality in this cozy Inverness retreat with excellent dining and modern comforts.
Torrish at Ness Walk
0.9 km
Experience the essence of Scottish cuisine at Torrish at Ness Walk, where fine dining meets breathtaking views of the River Ness.
Ness Walk Hotel - 5 Star Luxury Inverness Hotel
0.9 km
Elegant 5-star luxury on the River Ness, blending historic charm with modern comfort and acclaimed Highland dining.
Great War Memorial
1.2 km
A solemn red sandstone Celtic cross on the banks of the River Ness, honouring Inverness’s fallen from the World Wars and later conflicts.
Glenmoriston Townhouse Hotel Inverness
1.3 km
Elegant riverside boutique hotel in Inverness offering stylish rooms, award-winning dining, and a gateway to the Scottish Highlands.
Rowan Guest House Group Ltd
1.4 km
Comfortable and welcoming bed and breakfast in Inverness, perfect for exploring the Scottish Highlands with quality breakfast and friendly hospitality.
Rocpool Reserve Hotel
1.4 km
A stylish 5-star boutique hotel in Inverness offering luxurious rooms, acclaimed dining, and a serene city-centre retreat.
Glen Mhor Hotel & Apartments
1.5 km
Experience the charm of the Scottish Highlands at Glen Mhor Hotel & Apartments, your ideal base in Inverness for relaxation and adventure.
Ness Bank Church
1.5 km
A stunning Gothic Revival church on the River Ness, blending rich history, striking architecture, and vibrant community life in Inverness.
Highland Scenery
1.5 km
Discover the mesmerizing landscapes of Highland Scenery, a photographer’s dream in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
Best Western Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa
1.6 km
Elegant riverside hotel blending historic charm with modern spa comforts in the heart of Inverness.
Start/Finish of Great Glen way, Inverness
1.6 km
Discover the gateway to Scotland’s iconic Great Glen Way, where urban charm meets Highland adventure in Inverness.
Highland Historical Home
1.6 km
Discover the Highland Historical Home in Inverness, where Scottish heritage meets modern comfort in a charming holiday apartment rental.
Inverness Bike Tours
1.6 km
Experience the stunning landscapes and rich history of Inverness with guided bike tours through the Scottish Highlands.
Urquhart's Restaurant
1.6 km
Discover the flavors of Scotland at Urquhart's Restaurant, where British and European cuisine meet warm Highland hospitality.
Unmissable attractions to see
Inverness Leisure
0.1 km
The Highlands’ largest leisure centre offering pools, gym, athletics, climbing, and wellness facilities for all ages and abilities.
Highland Archive Centre
0.2 km
Explore centuries of Highland history and genealogy at Inverness’s dedicated archive and family history centre.
Whin Park
0.3 km
A revitalized riverside park in Inverness blending inclusive play, boating, and scenic walks for families and nature lovers.
Inverness Crazy Golf
0.3 km
Riverside mini-golf fun for all ages in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
Ness Islands Railway Ltd
0.3 km
Discover Inverness’s charming miniature railway in Whin Park, where scenic rides support Highland Hospice and delight visitors of all ages.
Concrete Hippos
0.3 km
Discover the quirky Concrete Hippos sculptures along Inverness’s Great Glen Way, blending playful art with stunning Highland scenery.
Memory of Jock Dyce
0.5 km
A tranquil tribute in Inverness honoring Jock Dyce’s legacy through storytelling and reflection amid peaceful surroundings.
Hame Tours
0.5 km
Explore the breathtaking Scottish Highlands with Hame Tours, where every journey is a unique adventure filled with history and stunning landscapes.
Bught Park Pitches
0.5 km
A vibrant sports and cultural hub in Inverness, home to shinty’s finest stadium and the annual Highland Games.
Tomnahurich Cemetery Hill
0.5 km
A Victorian cemetery on Inverness’s Fairy Hill blending history, haunting folklore, and panoramic Highland views.
Hydro Ness
0.5 km
Discover Hydro Ness, Inverness’s innovative hydroelectric project blending sustainability, education, and scenic riverside charm.
Holm Mills Shopping Village
0.6 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts, fashion, and whisky in a charming village setting just south of Inverness.
Circle of Wise
0.6 km
Discover the Circle of Wise, an ancient stone circle blending history and community spirit along Inverness’s scenic Great Glen Way.
Ness Islands
0.6 km
Victorian-bridged islands of ancient woodland, where Inverness melts into pristine nature.
Pier Ness Viewpoint
0.8 km
A tranquil riverside platform offering stunning panoramic views of the River Ness and lush Ness Islands in the heart of Inverness.
Essential places to dine
Black BX Food
0.4 km
Casual canal-side eatery in Inverness serving fresh, tasty meals with vegan options and a friendly vibe.
Loch Ness House Beefeater
0.4 km
Family-friendly steakhouse and bar & grill in Inverness offering hearty British classics and a welcoming atmosphere.
Contrast Brasserie Inverness
1.3 km
Stylish riverside dining with fresh, modern Scottish and Pan-Asian cuisine in Inverness’s renowned Glenmoriston Townhouse Hotel.
The Waterside Restaurant
1.4 km
Scenic riverside dining in Inverness serving sustainable, locally sourced Scottish cuisine with handcrafted spirits from the adjacent distillery.
Tiger on The Wall
1.5 km
Authentic Indian and Asian flavors served daily in the heart of Inverness at Tiger on The Wall, Strathness House’s celebrated restaurant.
Hou Hou Mei
1.6 km
Discover Hou Hou Mei, Inverness’s vibrant Asian fusion restaurant blending Thai, Japanese, Korean, and Chinese flavors with generous vegan options.
Encore
1.6 km
Experience hearty Scottish flavors and warm hospitality at Encore, Inverness’s vibrant restaurant and bar on Young Street.
La Tortilla
1.6 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and paella in Inverness’s oldest and most beloved tapas bar, blending vibrant flavors with Highland charm.
The Kitchen Restaurant
1.7 km
Savor inventive modern British cuisine with stunning River Ness views in a stylish, family-run Inverness restaurant.
Cafe 1
1.7 km
Experience the best of Highland cuisine with locally sourced dishes and warm hospitality in the heart of Inverness.
Zizzi - Inverness
1.8 km
Experience vibrant Italian flavors and fresh pasta delights in the heart of Inverness with a welcoming atmosphere and scenic river views.
nar
1.8 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean flavors with warm hospitality in the heart of Inverness at Nar, a cozy and highly regarded restaurant.
Coyote Burger
1.8 km
Savor premium burgers and vibrant vibes with scenic River Ness views in the heart of Inverness city centre.
Number 27 Bar and Kitchen
1.8 km
Experience the best of Scottish cuisine at Number 27 Bar and Kitchen in Inverness – where every meal tells a story.
Aye Eat
1.9 km
Experience bold Scottish flavors and warm Highland hospitality in the heart of Inverness at Aye Eat.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
James Pringle Weavers
0.6 km
Discover authentic Scottish weaving heritage and quality textiles at James Pringle Weavers in the historic Holm Woollen Mills, Inverness.
Dalneigh Stores
1.1 km
Explore Inverness with ease! Dalneigh Stores is your go-to convenience shop for essentials and local delights, open daily from early morning to night.
The Merchant
1.7 km
Discover Inverness’s hidden antique gem blending vintage treasures with modern charm on Greig Street.
Highland House of Fraser
1.7 km
Discover authentic Scottish Highland dress and witness traditional kilt making at Highland House of Fraser in Inverness, a family-run heritage landmark.
Rouge Boutiques
1.7 km
Discover personalized style and expert fittings at Rouge Boutiques, Inverness’ destination for elegant womenswear and exceptional service.
James Pringle Weavers of Inverness
1.7 km
Discover authentic Scottish woollens and heritage craftsmanship at James Pringle Weavers in the heart of Inverness.
The Whisky Shop
1.8 km
Discover Scotland’s finest whiskies and expert tastings in the heart of Inverness at The Whisky Shop.
Judith Glue
1.8 km
Discover authentic Orkney knitwear and Scottish gifts in a charming Inverness boutique blending heritage and style near the River Ness.
GLENEAGLES OF SCOTLAND
1.8 km
A refined Scottish clothing shop in Inverness, specialising in premium knitwear and country-style fashion with a Highland soul.
Primark
1.8 km
Discover budget-friendly fashion and homeware in Inverness city centre at Primark’s welcoming multi-floor store.
Edinburgh Woollen Mill
1.8 km
Discover authentic Scottish knitwear and heritage fashion at Edinburgh Woollen Mill in the heart of Inverness.
House of Highlands
1.8 km
Discover authentic Scottish Highland dress and handcrafted kilts at Inverness’s House of Highlands, a cultural gem in the heart of the Highlands.
Bluebells Of The Glen Souvenirs & Gifts Shop
1.8 km
Discover unique Highland treasures and charming gifts at Bluebells Of The Glen, a cozy souvenir shop in the heart of Inverness.
Thistle Do Nicely
1.9 km
Authentic Scottish gifts and souvenirs in the heart of Inverness, where warm hospitality meets curated Highland heritage.
Gifts & Souvenirs SALE
1.9 km
Authentic Scottish gifts and Highland treasures in the heart of Inverness, offering unique souvenirs and traditional clan items with guaranteed value.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Piano and Whisky Bar Inverness
1.3 km
Discover Inverness’s premier whisky and piano bar, blending riverside elegance with live music and an extensive malt whisky collection.
The Wee Bar
1.7 km
A cosy Inverness cocktail bar above Ness Walk, famed for masterful drinks, Highland hospitality, and a warm, intimate vibe.
Glenalbyn Bar
1.7 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality with fine whiskies, live music, and a cozy atmosphere at Glenalbyn Bar in Inverness.
Revolution Inverness
1.8 km
Trendy city-centre bar and restaurant in Inverness known for lively vibes, cocktails, and comfort food favorites.
Caledonian
1.9 km
A lively and affordable Scottish pub on Inverness High Street, perfect for classic pub fare and spirited local atmosphere.
Lauders
1.9 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Inverness at Lauders Bar, where tradition meets lively nightlife and warm Scottish hospitality.
Highlander
1.9 km
Experience daily live Scottish music, authentic cuisine, and a vibrant atmosphere at Highlander Bar, Inverness’s cultural heart.
MacCallums Bar
1.9 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere at MacCallums Bar, Inverness’s beloved traditional pub.
The Malt Room
1.9 km
Discover Inverness’s cozy whisky sanctuary with expert hosts, rare malts, and a warm, intimate atmosphere perfect for savoring every dram.
R&Bs
1.9 km
A lively family-run bar and restaurant in Inverness offering local flavors, gluten-free dishes, and the Highlands’ only karaoke nights.
Market Bar
1.9 km
Experience authentic Scottish nightlife with live music, local ales, and a welcoming vibe at Inverness’s Market Bar on Church Street.
The Gunsmiths Bar
2.0 km
A lively Inverness bar with historic charm, mezzanine views, affordable drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere near the River Ness.
The Tooth & Claw
2.0 km
Inverness’s vibrant rock and live music bar offering rustic charm, local brews, and an inclusive, lively atmosphere.
Three Witches
2.0 km
Family-friendly pub in Inverness offering a warm welcome, great carvery, vegan options, and dog-friendly spaces with a lively, casual atmosphere.
The Walrus & Corkscrew
2.0 km
Discover Inverness’ cozy wine bar with over 200 wines and artisanal Highland charcuterie platters in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Private Eyes Inverness
2.0 km
Experience Inverness’s vibrant nightlife at Private Eyes, where stylish decor meets great music and a welcoming party atmosphere.
The Ross Shire Club
18.6 km
Experience Dingwall’s vibrant nightlife with a welcoming vibe, BYOB policy, and lively social scene at The Ross Shire Club.
Xplosive Discos
23.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Xplosive Discos in Nairn, where unforgettable music and karaoke fun await every visitor.
Seaforth Club
26.1 km
Experience Nairn’s vibrant social heart at Seaforth Club, where community spirit meets lively nightlife in a welcoming setting.
Jackos Bar & Diner
26.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delicious grill options at Jackos Bar & Diner in Nairn, perfect for families and sports fans alike.
the Balavoulin
38.8 km
A lively, dog-friendly pub with hearty meals and cozy rooms, perfectly placed for exploring Aviemore and the Cairngorms.
The Winking Owl, Craft Ale Pub & Bar
38.9 km
Discover The Winking Owl in Aviemore for a delightful experience of craft ales, local flavors, and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
The Vault
39.1 km
Experience Aviemore’s vibrant nightlife at The Vault, a lively nightclub blending modern beats with Highland charm every weekend.
Mambos
39.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Mambos in Aviemore, where local charm meets a lively bar atmosphere for an unforgettable evening.
The Aviemore Inn pub and grill
39.9 km
Experience the warmth of Scottish hospitality at The Aviemore Inn, the perfect pub and grill in the heart of Aviemore for travelers and locals alike.
Woodshed Bar
41.4 km
Experience the warmth and charm of Woodshed Bar in Aviemore, where delightful drinks and a cozy atmosphere await you.
SUIE BAR
41.6 km
Discover Suie Bar: A Heartwarming Scottish Retreat in Kincraig, Perfect for Relaxation and Local Flavors.
The Pine Marten Bar
46.3 km
Experience the warmth of Scottish hospitality at The Pine Marten Bar, where delicious food and breathtaking views combine for an unforgettable visit.
Moray Jazz Club
58.7 km
Discover the vibrant live music scene at Moray Jazz Club in Elgin, where talented musicians create unforgettable performances in an intimate setting.
Shmelgin
58.7 km
Experience the authentic flavors of Nepal at Shmelgin, Elgin's premier Nepalese restaurant, known for its warm atmosphere and delicious dishes.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
