Best Landmarks in Inverness-shire
Planning a trip to Inverness-shire? Discover the best landmarks in Inverness-shire with history, expert tips, and routes. Free on web or the Evendo app.
The best landmarks in Inverness-shire
- Top rated
- Closest to the centre
- Price level: low to high
- Time to spend: shortest first
- A–Z
34 landmarks
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Historical landmark4.6★3,399 reviews
Clava Cairns
Clava Cairns is a Bronze Age burial complex dating back approximately 4,000 years, located near Inverness in the Scottish Highlands. The site comprises three exceptionally well-preserved cairns—two passage graves and one ring cairn—each surrounded by standing stones arranged with astronomical precision. Set in a tranquil woodland setting above the River Nairn, this free, open-access site offers visitors an intimate encounter with prehistoric Scotland. The cairns' alignment with the winter solstice sunset reveals the advanced astronomical knowledge of its Bronze Age builders. The site has gained modern cultural significance as the inspiration for the fictional Craigh na Dun in the Outlander television series, attracting visitors worldwide seeking to connect with ancient history and the show's romantic narrative.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 1–2 hrs
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Market4.0★3,472 reviews
The Victorian Market
The Victorian Market in Inverness is a charming covered market dating back to 1890, featuring over 30 independent retailers, a vibrant food hall, and historic architectural details like a cast-iron and wooden domed roof. Located in the city centre, it offers a unique shopping and dining experience with local crafts, souvenirs, and diverse Highland food stalls in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Pub4.4★2,723 reviews
The Castle Tavern
The Castle Tavern is a beloved traditional Scottish pub located at 1 View Place in Inverness, offering stunning views of Inverness Castle and the River Ness. Known for its warm atmosphere, excellent local ales, and hearty Scottish fare like haggis and Cullen Skink, it features a popular beer garden and an upstairs restaurant with seating for 28. The pub welcomes families and pets, blending historic charm with lively social spaces.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Hotel4.5★2,258 reviews
Kingsmills Hotel
Nestled on Culcabock Road in Inverness, Kingsmills Hotel offers a refined blend of historic charm and modern luxury. With 147 spacious rooms, a full-service spa, indoor pool, fine dining, and extensive leisure facilities, it caters to both relaxation and business needs. Set on private grounds just a short distance from Inverness city center, this four-star hotel is ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers seeking comfort and Scottish hospitality.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Hotel4.1★2,188 reviews
Mercure Inverness Hotel
Set in the heart of Inverness city centre along the scenic banks of the River Ness, Mercure Inverness Hotel offers a refined 4-star experience blending traditional Highland hospitality with modern comforts. Featuring 121 stylish rooms with river or city views, an in-house bar and restaurant serving local and international cuisine, and extensive amenities including meeting spaces and wedding facilities, this hotel is ideal for leisure and business travellers seeking a central, comfortable base with authentic Scottish charm.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Gastropub4.4★1,449 reviews
The WaterFront
The WaterFront in Inverness is a popular gastropub and restaurant known for its warm, inviting atmosphere and generous portions of modern Scottish cuisine. Situated on 70 Huntly Street, it offers a scenic riverside setting with friendly service and a varied menu featuring seafood, Sunday roasts, and classic pub fare. The venue blends traditional Highland charm with a contemporary dining experience, making it a favored spot for locals and visitors alike.
Mon–Sat 12:00–22:30 · Sun 12:30–22:30Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
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Hotel4.3★1,336 reviews
Best Western Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa
Situated on the scenic banks of the River Ness in Inverness, the Best Western Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa offers a blend of historic charm and modern comfort. This 4-star hotel features elegant rooms with tasteful décor, a well-equipped spa and wellness center, an indoor swimming pool, and dining options that highlight British cuisine. Its central location provides easy access to Inverness Castle and the city’s main attractions, making it ideal for both leisure and business travelers.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Hotel4.4★1,089 reviews
Premier Inn Inverness Centre River Ness
Premier Inn Inverness Centre River Ness offers a convenient and welcoming 3-star hotel experience in central Inverness, overlooking the scenic River Ness. With comfortable rooms including Premier Plus upgrades, an onsite restaurant serving fresh breakfasts and dinners, and easy access to the city’s attractions, it is ideal for travelers seeking a practical base with friendly service and riverside views.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Cafe4.2★1,146 reviews
The Rendezvous Cafe Inverness
Nestled in Inverness's historic Church Street, The Rendezvous Cafe offers a warm Highland hospitality experience with a charming vintage cinema ambiance. Renowned for its hearty Scottish breakfasts, all-day brunch, and diverse lunch menu, this cafe blends tradition with a unique Hollywood-inspired atmosphere. Open daily from 8 AM to 4 PM, it’s a beloved spot for locals and tourists seeking delicious, locally sourced fare in a cozy setting.
Daily 8:00–15:00Price level $Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
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Hotel4.1★1,081 reviews
Holiday Inn Express Inverness, an IHG Hotel
Holiday Inn Express Inverness offers a comfortable, modern stay in the Scottish Highlands with 94 clean, well-equipped rooms featuring free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and eco-friendly toiletries. Located in Stoneyfield, Inverness, this hotel provides free parking, a complimentary breakfast buffet, and easy access to local attractions such as Loch Ness and Culloden Battlefield. Ideal for business and leisure travelers, it combines convenience with a welcoming atmosphere.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
The Auctioneers
Located at 28 Church Street in Inverness, The Auctioneers is a lively pub and restaurant known for its warm, family-friendly atmosphere, hearty meals including gourmet burgers, and vibrant nightlife with late-night dancing and sports viewing. Built on the site of an old auctioneer business, it offers a blend of historic charm and modern entertainment, welcoming locals and visitors alike with moderate prices and a diverse menu.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Glenmoriston Townhouse Hotel Inverness
Set on the tranquil banks of the River Ness, Glenmoriston Townhouse Hotel offers stylish 4-star accommodation in Inverness. With 30 spacious rooms and three self-contained apartments, it combines riverside serenity with easy access to the city centre. Guests enjoy an award-winning restaurant, a vibrant whisky and cocktail bar, and scenic views of the cathedral and theatre. This boutique hotel blends classic Highland warmth with modern comforts, making it a refined base for exploring the Scottish Highlands.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Blackfriars Inverness
Blackfriars Inverness is a charming boutique hotel, bar, and restaurant located on Academy Street in Inverness’ historic Old Town. Established in 1793 and recently refurbished, it offers nine stylish bedrooms with modern comforts and a cozy pub atmosphere. The hotel is renowned for its warm hospitality, locally sourced Scottish cuisine, and central location within walking distance of Inverness Castle and the River Ness.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Ness Walk Hotel - 5 Star Luxury Inverness Hotel
Ness Walk Hotel is a 5-star luxury hotel nestled on the leafy banks of the River Ness in Inverness, Scotland. Housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century Grade B-listed building, it offers 47 exquisitely designed rooms and suites with river or garden views. Renowned for its warm Scottish hospitality, fine dining at the Torrish Restaurant, and elegant comfort, Ness Walk is ideal for romantic escapes, special celebrations, and discerning travelers seeking tranquility and style in the Highlands.
Price level $$$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Rowan Guest House Group Ltd
Rowan Guest House Group Ltd is a charming bed and breakfast located at 19 Ardross Street in Inverness, Scotland. Offering comfortable accommodations with a welcoming atmosphere, it is praised for its cleanliness, quality breakfast, and friendly hospitality. Situated within walking distance of Inverness city centre, it provides easy access to local attractions and amenities, making it an ideal base for exploring the Scottish Highlands.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Culloden House Hotel
Set within nearly 40 acres of private gardens and woodland near Inverness, Culloden House Hotel is a refined 4-star Georgian mansion offering individually styled rooms with historic charm and modern comforts. Guests enjoy fine dining, a renowned whisky selection, and peaceful grounds steeped in Highland history and hospitality.
Price level $$$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
The Corriegarth
The Corriegarth Hotel is a welcoming, modestly sized hotel located in a quiet neighborhood of Inverness, Scotland. Known for its friendly staff, cozy bar with a fireplace, and convenient proximity to the city center, it offers guests a comfortable and relaxed Highland stay. The hotel features a traditional pub, a restaurant with quality meals, and clean, compact rooms suitable for travelers seeking a peaceful base near Inverness attractions.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Lochardil House
Lochardil House is a charming 4-star hotel nestled in peaceful gardens on Stratherrick Road, Inverness. Housed in a beautifully maintained 19th-century building, it offers cozy, comfortable rooms with modern amenities, a renowned restaurant in a conservatory setting, and warm, welcoming service. Ideal for visitors seeking a relaxing stay close to Inverness city centre, it combines historic character with tranquil surroundings and excellent Scottish breakfasts.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Redcliffe Hotel, Restaurant and Beer Garden
A welcoming 3-star hotel in Inverness, just a short walk from the city centre and Inverness Castle. Redcliffe offers comfortable, recently refurbished rooms, a popular on-site restaurant, and a scenic beer garden terrace. Ideal for visitors seeking a relaxed base with good food, friendly service, and easy access to the heart of the city and the River Ness.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–14 hrs
Rocpool Reserve Hotel
Rocpool Reserve is a 5-star boutique hotel nestled in Inverness, Scotland, combining modern sophistication with historic charm. Set in a beautifully restored Georgian townhouse, it offers individually styled rooms with premium amenities, an acclaimed restaurant by chef Albert Roux, and a tranquil terrace. Just minutes from Inverness Castle and the city centre, it is ideal for discerning travellers seeking comfort, fine dining, and a peaceful urban retreat.
Price level $$$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Waverley Guesthouse
Waverley Guesthouse is a budget-friendly, 3-star guesthouse located in the heart of Inverness on Union Street. It offers simple, clean rooms with basic amenities including free Wi-Fi in public areas and continental breakfast. The guesthouse is known for its convenient location near Inverness Castle and local attractions, making it a practical choice for travelers seeking affordable accommodation in the city center.
Price level $Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Drumdevan Country House, Inverness
Drumdevan Country House is a charming Victorian-era country house hotel located in a tranquil setting just 5 km from Inverness. Surrounded by mature woodland and extensive private grounds, this historic property offers spacious en-suite rooms blending heritage charm with modern comforts. Guests enjoy free parking, pet-friendly policies, and proximity to iconic Highland attractions like Loch Ness and the North Coast 500 route.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Inverness Scotland
Inverness, the northernmost city in the United Kingdom, is the vibrant capital of the Scottish Highlands. Nestled on the banks of the River Ness near the Moray Firth coast, it offers a unique blend of historic charm, stunning natural landscapes, and modern amenities. Known for its proximity to Loch Ness and Inverness Castle, the city is a hub for cultural heritage, scenic beauty, and Highland hospitality.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Ness Bank Church
Ness Bank Church, located on the banks of the River Ness in Inverness, is a striking example of late Victorian Gothic Revival architecture. Built in 1901 from local pink sandstone, it replaced an earlier Gaelic chapel and serves as a vibrant place of worship and community hub. The church features stunning stained-glass windows, a spacious interior seating around 600, and a renowned pipe organ, making it a cultural and spiritual landmark in the city.
Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Wardlaw Mausoleum
Nestled in the tranquil village of Kirkhill near Inverness, Wardlaw Mausoleum is a 17th-century burial site for the Lovat Fraser clan chiefs. Known for its striking Scottish funerary architecture combining Gothic and Classical elements, the mausoleum holds rich Jacobite history, including the crypt of Simon Fraser, the 'Old Fox'. Surrounded by lush greenery and offering scenic views, this restored Grade A listed landmark invites reflection on Scotland's turbulent past and clan heritage.
Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Leanach Farm
Leanach Farm is a 4-star bed and breakfast nestled in the scenic Scottish Highlands near Inverness, offering luxurious accommodation on a working sheep farm. Guests enjoy comfortable rooms with modern amenities, hearty Scottish breakfasts with countryside views, and unique experiences like sheepdog demonstrations. Its rural setting provides peaceful surroundings while being close to historic sites such as Culloden Battlefield and Clava Cairns.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Highland Apartments by Mansley
Highland Apartments by Mansley offers luxury serviced apartments in the heart of Inverness, overlooking the River Ness and Inverness Castle. These spacious, modern apartments feature fully equipped kitchens, elegant living areas, private balconies or terraces with stunning views, and hotel-style services including weekday housekeeping and secure parking. Ideal for families, groups, or business travelers, the apartments combine Highland charm with contemporary comfort in a prime city-center location.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–7 hrs
Inverness Town House
Inverness Town House is a striking Victorian Gothic building in the heart of Inverness, Scotland. Completed in 1882 on a historic site dating back to 1708, it serves as a key civic building and vibrant event venue. Known for its ornate architecture, stained glass windows, and historic significance including hosting the first British Cabinet meeting outside London in 1921, it blends heritage with modern functionality for meetings, weddings, and cultural events.
Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Milton of Clava
Milton of Clava is a lesser-known part of the Clava Cairns prehistoric complex near Inverness, Scotland. This tranquil site features Bronze Age burial cairns and stone circles dating back over 4,000 years, set in a peaceful rural landscape near Culloden Moor. Visitors can explore standing stones and ancient passage graves, experiencing a mysterious atmosphere steeped in early Scottish history and archaeology.
Open 24 hoursPrice level $Time to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
Cumberland Stone
A massive glacial boulder standing over 5 feet high near Culloden Moor, Cumberland Stone is steeped in Highland history and legend. According to local tradition, the Duke of Cumberland watched the brutal 1746 Battle of Culloden from atop this enormous conglomerate stone, making it a poignant landmark of Scotland's Jacobite past. Visitors can climb the stone via carved steps and experience a tangible connection to one of the most significant—and tragic—moments in Scottish history.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
Clach an Tiompain
A striking 7th-century Pictish symbol stone standing in a fenced enclosure near Strathpeffer in the Scottish Highlands. Carved with an intricately detailed eagle and a horseshoe or arch symbol, this ancient monument is one of Scotland's best-preserved Class I Pictish stones. Free to visit, it offers spectacular valley views and connects to local folklore about clan battles and the prophecies of the Brahan Seer. Located near the Highland Museum of Childhood with accessible parking and facilities.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
Eagle Stone Path
The Eagle Stone, or Clach an Tiompain, is a small but striking Class I Pictish symbol stone located on the northern outskirts of Strathpeffer, Scotland. Dating from 500–700 AD, it features intricate carvings of an eagle and a horseshoe-shaped arc, believed to commemorate a historic clan battle. Steeped in legend and local prophecy, this ancient monument connects visitors with the mysterious Pictish past and the cultural heritage of Easter Ross.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 0.2–1 hr
Culloden Viaduct
The Culloden Viaduct, also known as the Nairn or Clava Viaduct, is Scotland’s longest masonry railway viaduct, stretching 549 meters with 29 elegant arches. Designed by Murdoch Paterson and opened in 1898, it carries the Highland Main Line over the scenic River Nairn valley east of Inverness. This Category A listed structure is a testament to Victorian engineering and remains a vital rail link, offering striking views near the historic Culloden Battlefield.
Time to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
The Broad Stone, Inverness
The Broad Stone is a historic sculptured stone located on Kingsmills Road in Inverness, Scotland. Dating back to before the 15th century, this large stone features a distinctive hole thought to have supported a pillar or stone cross. It stands enclosed between Broadstone Park and Kingsmills Park, embodying centuries of local heritage and mystery. The stone’s origins and purpose remain partly speculative, linking it to early Christian and possibly pagan traditions in the Highlands.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
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