Victorian Market, Inverness
A historic covered market in Inverness’s Old Town, filled with independent shops, Highland crafts, and diverse food stalls under a beautiful Victorian roof.
Step into the heart of Inverness at the Victorian Market, a beautifully restored 19th-century covered market filled with independent boutiques, artisan crafts, and local food stalls. Housed in an ornate cast-iron and glass building in the Old Town, it’s the perfect place to browse for unique Highland souvenirs, enjoy a coffee, or sample regional delicacies. With around 40 independent businesses, from jewellery and gifts to cafés and a diverse food hall, this lively indoor market offers an authentic slice of Highland life away from chain stores.
A brief summary to Inverness Gifts & Souvenirs
- 3 Market Arcade Victorian Market, Academy St, Inverness, IV1 1PG, GB
- +441463237222
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Budget
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 9 am-6 pm
- Saturday 9 am-6 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit on a weekday morning to avoid the busiest crowds and enjoy a more relaxed browsing experience.
- Check individual shop and café opening times, as they vary; some may close earlier on Sundays or outside peak season.
- Take time to explore all the arches and side aisles – some of the most interesting stalls are tucked away in quieter corners.
- Look for the knife-sharpening marks on the sandstone arch at the Church Street entrance, a subtle reminder of the market’s fish-market past.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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On foot from city centre
From Inverness city centre, the Victorian Market is a 5–10 minute walk along Academy Street or Church Street. The route is flat and paved, suitable for all mobility levels, and leads directly to one of the market’s entrances.
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By local bus
Several local bus routes stop near Academy Street or Church Street in Inverness. From the main bus stops, it’s a short, level walk of 2–5 minutes to the market entrances, with clear signage in the city centre.
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By car
Drive to Inverness city centre and use one of the central car parks, such as the Nairn Street or Millburn Road car parks. From there, it’s a 5–10 minute walk to the market via Academy Street or Church Street, with well-marked pedestrian routes.
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From Inverness Railway Station
From Inverness Railway Station, it’s a 10–15 minute walk along Academy Street, a flat, well-lit route with pedestrian crossings. The Victorian Market is clearly signposted from the station area.
Inverness Gifts & Souvenirs 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 Gifts & Souvenirs
A 19th-Century Market Reborn
Opened in 1890, the Victorian Market stands as a proud survivor of Inverness’s commercial past, originally serving as a fish and general market. Its elegant cast-iron and timber roof, round-headed shop fronts, and ornate detailing reflect the craftsmanship of the Victorian era. Over time, the market evolved from a wholesale hub into a vibrant retail and dining destination, preserving its historic character while adapting to modern tastes. Today, it remains a covered market in the heart of Inverness’s Old Town, a place where architecture and commerce blend seamlessly.Independent Shops and Highland Crafts
The market is home to around 40 independent businesses, each offering something distinctive. Visitors can browse jewellery, handmade crafts, traditional Scottish gifts, clothing, accessories, and local produce, all from owner-operated stalls and boutiques. Many of these shops are family-run or have been in the market for years, giving them a personal, community feel. Whether you’re looking for a tartan keepsake, a piece of Highland-inspired art, or a quirky souvenir, the Victorian Market is a treasure trove of locally made and curated items, far removed from generic high-street chains.A Taste of the Highlands
Food lovers will find plenty to enjoy, from traditional Scottish fare to international flavours. The market includes cafés, bakeries, and a modern food hall with stalls serving Indian, sushi, seafood, and more, including options for vegetarians and vegans. There are also specialist outlets like an oyster and seafood bar, perfect for a treat, and sweet shops offering fudge, chocolates, and local treats. With seating available, it’s easy to grab a bite, sip a coffee, or enjoy a drink while soaking in the market’s lively atmosphere.Architecture and Hidden Details
Beyond the shopping, the building itself is a highlight. Look up at the ornate domed roof of glass, timber, and cast iron, a fine example of Victorian market architecture. Notice the round-headed shop fronts and the central clock, surrounded by historic coats of arms. At the Church Street entrance, a sandstone arch bears knife-sharpening marks left by fish merchants from the market’s early days, a subtle but evocative reminder of its working past. These details make a simple stroll through the market a mini-history lesson in Highland urban life.Practical Visitor Experience
The Victorian Market is open seven days a week, with the main complex accessible from multiple entrances on Academy Street, Church Street, Union Street, and Queensgate. Individual shop and café hours vary, so it’s worth allowing time to explore at a relaxed pace. Public toilets and seating are available, and the covered, indoor layout means it’s a comfortable destination in any weather. As a free-to-enter market, it’s ideal for a short browse or a longer stop, whether you’re in Inverness for a day or a longer stay in the Highlands.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
WOW Scotland
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Waverley Guesthouse
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The Auctioneers
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The White House
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Jacobite House
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Fàsaidh Tattoo
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Mercure Inverness Hotel
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Nairn Book & Arts Festival
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Unmissable attractions to see
The Victorian Market
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Jesus House Inverness
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Highland Buddhist Community
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Royal Highland Hotel
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TK Maxx
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Young's Auld Sweetie Shop
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Inverness
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Inverness Railway Station: Your accessible gateway to the Scottish Highlands with seamless connections and essential amenities.
National memorial of Scotland
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Abertarff House
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Scotland's oldest house in Inverness, where four centuries of Highland history whisper through ancient stone.
The Three Virtues
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Huntfun
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Race for life
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City Sightseeing Inverness
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VisitScotland Inverness iCentre
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Loch Ness by Jacobite - Inverness Bus Station
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Essential places to dine
Salt’N’Fire
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Georges
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Ash
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Comfort Foods
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The Brasserie
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Kool Runnings
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Rooftop Garden
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Aye Eat
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Rose Street Foundry
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Thai Dining
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McBain’s by the River
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Coyote Burger
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Zizzi - Inverness
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Allsorts
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Ness Wear
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Victorian Gift Shop & Barber Shop
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Rohan Inverness - Outdoor Clothing & Walking Gear
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Durable, stylish outdoor clothing and walking gear crafted for Scotland’s adventures, right in the heart of Inverness.
Far Fetched
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Quality clothing at honest prices in the heart of Inverness's shopping district.
Cancer Research UK
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Shop sustainably at Inverness’s Cancer Research UK charity shop and support vital cancer research with every purchase.
North Designerwear
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Triquerta Crafts
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Ellerium Games
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Gifts & Souvenirs SALE
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Isle of Skye Candle Company - Inverness
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Keepsake Scotland
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Bluebells Of The Glen Souvenirs & Gifts Shop
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Harris Tweed Isle Of Harris
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Playback
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The Gunsmiths Bar
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Platform 8
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The Exchange
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MacCallums Bar
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Market Bar
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The Malt Room
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R&Bs
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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The Vault
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The Aviemore Inn pub and grill
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Quirky
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Industrial Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
