Discover the Tranquil Beauty of Merkinch Local Nature Reserve
Explore nature's serenity at Merkinch Local Nature Reserve in Inverness, where wildlife and picturesque landscapes await every visitor.
Merkinch Local Nature Reserve is a serene escape in Inverness, offering lush landscapes, diverse wildlife, and a peaceful environment for nature lovers and tourists alike. Explore its scenic trails, enjoy birdwatching, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this hidden gem, making it a perfect stop for relaxation and exploration.
A brief summary to Merkinch Local Nature Reserve
- 40 Craigton Ave, Inverness, IV3 8AZ, GB
- +447795253727
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during dawn or dusk for the best chances to see wildlife, especially birds.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching to fully enjoy the diverse avian species in the reserve.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the many scenic spots throughout the reserve.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking along the trails and exploring the varied landscapes.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving, start from the center of Inverness. Head southwest on Academy Street toward Stephen’s Street. Continue straight onto the A82 and follow it for about 1.5 miles. At the roundabout, take the first exit onto the A9, continuing for approximately 0.5 miles. Take the exit toward A862/Culcabock Road and follow it for about 0.5 miles. Turn left onto Craigton Avenue. Merkinch Local Nature Reserve will be on your left at 40 Craigton Ave, IV3 8AZ. There is free parking available nearby.
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Public Transportation
To reach Merkinch Local Nature Reserve using public transport, start from Inverness Bus Station. You can catch a local bus (for example, Bus number 4 or 5) towards the Merkinch area. Ensure to check the schedule in advance; buses run frequently but may vary depending on the time of day. Alight at the stop closest to Craigton Avenue, which is a short walk from the reserve. From the bus stop, walk down Craigton Avenue; Merkinch Local Nature Reserve is approximately a 10-minute walk from the bus stop, located at 40 Craigton Ave, IV3 8AZ.
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Walking
If you are already in Inverness and prefer walking, head towards the riverfront and follow the paths leading toward the south side of the city. Walk along the River Ness until you reach the A82. Cross the road and continue south on the pathways that lead to Craigton Avenue. This route may take about 30-40 minutes, depending on your pace. Once you reach Craigton Avenue, Merkinch Local Nature Reserve will be located at 40 Craigton Ave, IV3 8AZ.
Discover more about Merkinch Local Nature Reserve
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The WaterFront
1.8 km
A charming gastropub on Inverness’s River Ness, blending hearty Scottish fare with a cozy riverside atmosphere and friendly service.
MacGregor's
1.9 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of MacGregor's in Inverness, where delicious food and local brews meet Scottish hospitality.
Blackfriars Inverness
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Charming boutique hotel and pub in Inverness’ Old Town, blending historic character with modern comfort and Scottish hospitality.
Timberbush Tours Inverness
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Mangrove
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River House
2.0 km
Experience the finest seafood dining in Inverness with breathtaking river views and a menu that celebrates local flavors.
Greig St & Greig St Bridge
2.0 km
Historic Victorian suspension footbridge in Inverness famed for its gentle sway and scenic River Ness views.
The Kings Highway - JD Wetherspoon
2.0 km
Experience the charm of Inverness at The Kings Highway - a vibrant pub and restaurant offering delicious meals and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Black Isle Bar & Rooms
2.1 km
Experience local craft beer, delicious pizza, and cozy accommodations at the Black Isle Bar & Rooms in the heart of Inverness.
The Mustard Seed Restaurant
2.1 km
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Hootananny
2.1 km
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Aspendos
2.1 km
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Scotch & Rye
2.1 km
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Jacobite House
2.1 km
Cozy, centrally located serviced accommodation in Inverness with clean rooms, a shared kitchen, and easy access to city attractions.
The Auctioneers
2.2 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
North Kessock East Pier Viewpoint
0.7 km
Tranquil coastal views and historic charm meet at North Kessock East Pier, a prime spot for sunsets and dolphin watching near Inverness.
White Cottage Food & Accommodation
0.7 km
Waterfront Highland hospitality with exceptional food and spotless comfort in North Kessock
North Kessock Community Pier
0.7 km
Historic community pier on the Moray Firth offering boat launching, dolphin watching, and stunning coastal views near Inverness.
Dolphin Spirit Inverness
0.8 km
Experience thrilling dolphin and wildlife boat trips from Inverness Marina, blending adventure with expert marine insights in the scenic Moray Firth.
Kessock Bridge
1.1 km
A striking cable-stayed icon linking Inverness and the Black Isle, the Kessock Bridge blends engineering brilliance with stunning Highland vistas.
Bruce's roundabout
1.9 km
Discover Bruce's Roundabout, where Inverness’s history and whimsy meet in a unique urban landmark full of charm and cultural resonance.
Leakey's Bookshop
1.9 km
Discover Scotland’s largest secondhand bookshop, a cozy treasure trove nestled in a historic Inverness church with over 100,000 volumes to explore.
Old High Church
2.0 km
Oldest church in Inverness, where Celtic faith, Jacobite history, and riverside serenity converge on St Michael’s Mount.
Miele's Gelateria Inverness
2.0 km
Authentic Italian gelato crafted with four generations of expertise in the heart of Inverness, offering creative flavours and classic treats daily.
Old Town Curiosities
2.0 km
Discover rare antiques and unique curiosities in the heart of Inverness’s historic Old Town at Old Town Curiosities.
Greig Street Bridge
2.0 km
Historic 1881 suspension bridge in Inverness famed for its charming lattice towers, gentle sway, and scenic River Ness views.
Loch Ness by Jacobite - Inverness Bus Station
2.0 km
Discover the magic of Loch Ness with expert-guided boat tours departing from Inverness Bus Station, blending legend, history, and stunning Highland vistas.
City Sightseeing Inverness
2.0 km
Discover Inverness at your own pace on a hop-on hop-off open-top bus tour with panoramic views and rich historical commentary.
Abertarff House
2.1 km
Scotland's oldest house in Inverness, where four centuries of Highland history whisper through ancient stone.
Highland Buddhist Community
2.1 km
A tranquil Buddhist sanctuary in Inverness city centre offering meditation, community, and spiritual growth.
Essential places to dine
Secret of Delicious
1.4 km
Experience authentic Highland cuisine at Secret of Delicious in Inverness – where every dish tells a story.
Lorimers Family Restaurant
1.9 km
A friendly, family-focused restaurant in Inverness serving classic British dishes with a welcoming atmosphere seven days a week.
La Le Turkish Mediterranean restaurant
1.9 km
Authentic Turkish Mediterranean flavors served fresh with warm hospitality in the heart of Inverness.
Rose Street Foundry
2.0 km
A vibrant gastropub in Inverness blending local flavors, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for dining and socializing.
Thai Dining
2.0 km
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Rooftop Garden
2.0 km
A serene rooftop retreat in Inverness offering relaxed dining with scenic city views and a refreshing garden atmosphere.
McBain’s by the River
2.0 km
A cozy riverside restaurant in Inverness serving exquisite Highland dishes with fresh local produce and warm family hospitality.
EscoBar - Taqueria & Cocktails
2.1 km
Authentic Mexican flavors and vibrant cocktails in the heart of Inverness, perfect for lively dining and festive gatherings.
Georges
2.1 km
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Salt’N’Fire
2.2 km
The UK’s first fully vegan takeaway, serving bold, globally inspired street food in the heart of Inverness’s Victorian Market.
The Brasserie
2.2 km
A comfortable and centrally located brasserie in Inverness offering quality food and a relaxed atmosphere from noon till late.
The Kitchen Restaurant
2.2 km
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Ash
2.2 km
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Comfort Foods
2.2 km
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Kool Runnings
2.2 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
La-Di-Da Fashion/ Ladies Quality Occasion Wear
2.0 km
A charming Inverness boutique for special occasion wear, mother-of-the-bride outfits, designer dresses, hats, fascinators and accessories.
The Merchant
2.1 km
Discover Inverness’s hidden antique gem blending vintage treasures with modern charm on Greig Street.
Ness Wear
2.1 km
Authentic Scottish gifts and souvenirs in the heart of Inverness, offering quality craftsmanship and a true Highland shopping experience.
Triquerta Crafts
2.1 km
Discover handcrafted Scottish jewellery and heritage treasures in the charming Victorian Market of Inverness.
Rohan Inverness - Outdoor Clothing & Walking Gear
2.2 km
Durable, stylish outdoor clothing and walking gear crafted for Scotland’s adventures, right in the heart of Inverness.
Victorian Gift Shop & Barber Shop
2.2 km
A charming fusion of traditional Scottish gifts and classic barbering in Inverness’s historic Market Hall.
Ortak Handmade Jewellery of Scotland
2.2 km
Handcrafted Scottish jewellery in the heart of Inverness – timeless designs inspired by Orkney’s nature and heritage.
Allsorts
2.2 km
Inverness's eclectic gift and party shop brimming with unique costumes, cards, and Scottish treasures.
North Designerwear
2.2 km
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Far Fetched
2.2 km
Quality clothing at honest prices in the heart of Inverness's shopping district.
Cancer Research UK
2.2 km
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Highland House of Fraser
2.2 km
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GLENEAGLES OF SCOTLAND
2.3 km
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Ellerium Games
2.3 km
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Gifts & Souvenirs SALE
2.3 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
Clachnaharry Inn
1.0 km
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Innes Bar
1.6 km
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The Phoenix Ale House
1.9 km
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The Walrus & Corkscrew
2.0 km
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R&Bs
2.1 km
A lively family-run bar and restaurant in Inverness offering local flavors, gluten-free dishes, and the Highlands’ only karaoke nights.
Platform 8
2.1 km
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The Exchange
2.1 km
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Market Bar
2.1 km
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The Malt Room
2.1 km
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Highlander
2.1 km
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Playback
2.2 km
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The Gunsmiths Bar
2.2 km
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MacCallums Bar
2.2 km
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Lauders
2.2 km
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The Imperial
2.2 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Private Eyes Inverness
2.0 km
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The Ross Shire Club
15.7 km
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Xplosive Discos
21.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Xplosive Discos in Nairn, where unforgettable music and karaoke fun await every visitor.
Seaforth Club
24.8 km
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Jackos Bar & Diner
25.0 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delicious grill options at Jackos Bar & Diner in Nairn, perfect for families and sports fans alike.
the Balavoulin
41.8 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
41.8 km
Discover The Winking Owl in Aviemore for a delightful experience of craft ales, local flavors, and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
The Vault
42.1 km
Experience Aviemore’s vibrant nightlife at The Vault, a lively nightclub blending modern beats with Highland charm every weekend.
Mambos
42.2 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
42.9 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
44.4 km
Experience the warmth and charm of Woodshed Bar in Aviemore, where delightful drinks and a cozy atmosphere await you.
SUIE BAR
44.9 km
Discover Suie Bar: A Heartwarming Scottish Retreat in Kincraig, Perfect for Relaxation and Local Flavors.
The Pine Marten Bar
49.1 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
57.9 km
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Shmelgin
57.9 km
Experience the authentic flavors of Nepal at Shmelgin, Elgin's premier Nepalese restaurant, known for its warm atmosphere and delicious dishes.
