Royal Highland Hotel
Historic Victorian railway hotel with grand architecture, central location, and authentic Scottish hospitality.
A historic Victorian railway hotel in central Inverness, the Royal Highland Hotel combines grand period architecture with modern hospitality. Located steps from the train and bus stations, this characterful property features ornate public spaces, an on-site restaurant, and comfortable rooms. While some areas show their age, the hotel offers excellent value and convenient access to Inverness's shops, dining, and attractions.
A brief summary to Royal Highland Hotel
- 18 Station Square, Academy St, Inverness, IV1 1LG, GB
- +441463231926
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Book a room on the upper floors for maximum quiet, as lower floors may experience street and train station noise. Request a room away from the main road when reserving.
- On-site parking is extremely limited (approximately 8 spaces on first-come, first-served basis). Use the nearby secure pay-and-display car park if arriving by car, or take advantage of the hotel's proximity to train and bus stations.
- The grand staircase and ballroom breakfast room are architectural highlights worth photographing. Allow time to appreciate the hotel's Victorian character and period details throughout the building.
- Upgrade to a cooked Scottish breakfast for a modest additional charge—the buffet continental option is adequate, but the hot breakfast is highly recommended and worth the investment.
- Dine at the Ash Restaurant for dinner rather than venturing into town; the on-site restaurant offers quality food and eliminates the need to navigate the city center after dark.
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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Train from Edinburgh
Direct trains operate from Edinburgh Waverley to Inverness Station throughout the day, with journey times of approximately 3.5 to 4 hours depending on service type. The hotel is directly adjacent to Inverness Station—exit the platform and walk through the station forecourt to reach Station Square. No additional transport is required. Standard fares range from £30 to £80 return depending on advance booking and time of travel.
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Bus from Glasgow or Edinburgh
Long-distance coaches operate from major Scottish cities to Inverness Bus Station, with journey times of 3.5 to 4.5 hours from Glasgow and 3.5 to 4 hours from Edinburgh. The bus station is located two blocks from the hotel on Academy Street. Exit the bus station and walk northeast along Academy Street for approximately 150 meters to reach Station Square. Fares typically range from £15 to £35 return with advance booking.
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Car from Central Scotland
Drive via the A9 motorway northbound from Edinburgh or Glasgow, with journey times of approximately 3.5 hours from Edinburgh and 4 hours from Glasgow. Follow signs for Inverness City Centre and Station Square. The hotel has approximately 8 on-site parking spaces available on a first-come, first-served basis. If these are full, use the secure pay-and-display car park located two blocks away on Strothers Lane, which costs approximately £4 for 24 hours.
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Local taxi or ride-share
From Inverness Airport (approximately 25 kilometers northeast), taxis and ride-share services operate to the city center with journey times of 25 to 35 minutes depending on traffic. Fares typically range from £30 to £50. The hotel is centrally located on Station Square, making it an easy destination for any taxi driver.
Royal Highland Hotel location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about Royal Highland Hotel
A Victorian Railway Legacy
The Royal Highland Hotel stands as one of Scotland's finest surviving examples of Victorian railway architecture, dating back to the 1850s. Built during the golden age of rail travel, this grand stone building retains the architectural splendor of its era, with soaring ceilings, ornate cornicing, and a magnificent staircase that dominates the entrance hall. The hotel's design reflects the importance of rail transport in the 19th century, when such establishments served as gateways for travelers arriving by train. Today, it remains one of Inverness's most recognizable landmarks, its imposing facade a testament to the craftsmanship and ambition of Victorian builders.Spaces of Grandeur and Comfort
The hotel's public areas showcase remarkable period character. The reception hall features a stunning grand staircase with intricate detailing, creating an immediate sense of arrival and occasion. Multiple lounges and seating areas throughout the building provide comfortable spaces to relax, read, or enjoy refreshments. The Ash Restaurant, housed within the hotel, serves dinner and maintains a reputation for quality cuisine. Breakfast is served in a splendid ballroom setting, offering both continental and cooked Scottish options. These shared spaces, with their high ceilings and traditional furnishings, transport guests back to an earlier era of travel and hospitality.Bedrooms with Historic Character
Guest rooms vary in size and layout, reflecting the building's original design. Many feature large windows, comfortable beds, and modern bathrooms that contrast pleasantly with period decor. Rooms are consistently clean and well-maintained, though some retain dated furnishings and carpeting that reflect the hotel's age. Amenities include tea and coffee facilities, televisions, and room safes. Some rooms offer views over the surrounding cityscape, while others face the adjacent train station. The hotel's solid Victorian construction means rooms tend to be quiet despite the central location, though ground-floor rooms facing the street may experience occasional traffic noise.Convenience at the Heart of Inverness
The hotel's position on Station Square places it within walking distance of virtually everything Inverness offers. The train station is immediately adjacent, and the bus station lies just two blocks away, making the hotel ideal for travelers arriving by public transport. The city center's high street, with its shops, cafes, and restaurants, is equally accessible on foot. This central location means guests can explore Inverness's attractions without requiring a car, though the hotel does offer limited on-site parking on a first-come, first-served basis. A secure pay-and-display car park operates nearby for those who need extended parking.Service and Hospitality Standards
Staff members are frequently praised for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness. Reception staff handle check-in efficiently and offer local knowledge to assist guests with planning their time in Inverness. Dining staff provide courteous service in both the restaurant and breakfast areas. The hotel's management actively engages with guest feedback and maintains membership with Visit Scotland, undergoing regular quality assessments. While service standards are generally consistent, experiences can occasionally vary depending on individual staff members encountered during a stay.Value and Investment Considerations
The Royal Highland Hotel represents solid value for money, particularly for travelers prioritizing location and character over modern furnishings. Room rates are moderate for a central Inverness hotel, and package deals often include breakfast and dinner options. The on-site restaurant eliminates the need to venture out for evening meals, and the included or reasonably priced breakfast buffet offers good variety. Bar prices are in line with city-center establishments. Some guests note that certain amenities, such as cooked breakfast upgrades, carry additional charges, though these are clearly communicated. The hotel's age means it lacks some contemporary conveniences found in newer properties, but this is reflected in the pricing.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Essential places to dine
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The Brasserie
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Ness Wear
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Souvenir & Gift shop
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Retro Vibes
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Architectural Shots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Architectural Shots
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Business Friendly
