Scottish Exotic Animal Rescue in Nairn
A compassionate refuge in Nairn offering sanctuary and education for exotic animals through immersive, appointment-based visits.
Scottish Exotic Animal Rescue (SEAR) in Nairn is a dedicated non-profit sanctuary providing refuge for abandoned and rescued exotic animals, including reptiles and other unusual species. Located at 10 Harbour Street, SEAR offers educational visits by appointment, especially during summer holidays, and hosts events such as birthday parties and school workshops. The centre is committed to animal welfare and community awareness, making it a unique destination for animal lovers and families.
A brief summary to Scottish Exotic Animal Rescue
- 10 Harbour St, Nairn, IV12 4NU, GB
- +441667452462
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Book your visit in advance as SEAR operates by appointment, especially during summer holidays.
- Consider attending one of the educational workshops or booking a birthday party event for a unique experience.
- Bring a camera for close-up photo opportunities with some of the rescued exotic animals.
- Support the sanctuary by donating supplies or funds to help care for the animals.
- Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a relaxed, educational visit focused on animal welfare.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
Getting There
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Bus
Local bus services connect Nairn with Inverness and surrounding areas, with a typical journey time of 25-40 minutes. Buses run regularly but check schedules in advance as frequency varies by day. The bus stop is within a 10-minute walk of the sanctuary. Single fares cost approximately £3-£5.
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Car
Driving to Scottish Exotic Animal Rescue from Inverness takes around 20-30 minutes via the A96. Parking is available near 10 Harbour Street but can be limited during peak times. No parking fees apply. The route is straightforward and suitable for standard vehicles.
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Train and Walk
Nairn railway station is about 1.5 km from the sanctuary, approximately a 20-minute flat walk through town. Trains from Inverness to Nairn take roughly 15 minutes, with multiple daily services. Walking from the station is accessible and pleasant.
Scottish Exotic Animal Rescue location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Scottish Exotic Animal Rescue
A Sanctuary for Exotic Wildlife
Scottish Exotic Animal Rescue (SEAR) is a compassionate refuge located in the coastal town of Nairn, Highland. This non-profit organisation specializes in rescuing and caring for exotic animals that have been abandoned, mistreated, or surrendered. The sanctuary provides a lifelong home to a variety of species, with a particular focus on reptiles and other unusual creatures that often face neglect or improper care. SEAR’s mission extends beyond rescue to include education and advocacy for exotic animal welfare.Engaging Educational Experiences
Visitors to SEAR can engage with the sanctuary through scheduled appointments, particularly during the summer holiday season when the centre opens Wed-Sun. The rescue offers tailored experiences such as guided tours, school workshops, and birthday parties, designed to foster understanding and respect for exotic animals. These programs are crafted to be both informative and enjoyable, making them ideal for families and children eager to learn about the challenges exotic animals face and the sanctuary’s efforts to provide care.Community and Volunteer Spirit
SEAR operates largely through the dedication of volunteers and community support. The centre relies on donations and volunteer efforts to maintain its facilities and care for the animals. This community-driven approach creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere where visitors can witness the positive impact of collective compassion. The sanctuary also provides opportunities for people to get involved, whether through volunteering, donating, or participating in events.Location and Atmosphere
Situated at 10 Harbour Street in Nairn, SEAR is easily accessible within the town’s charming setting. The sanctuary’s environment is intimate and focused on the well-being of its residents, offering visitors a chance to connect closely with animals that are rarely seen in traditional zoos. The centre’s atmosphere is tranquil and educational, with a strong emphasis on respect for wildlife and conservation.Animal Welfare and Conservation Impact
Beyond providing sanctuary, SEAR plays a vital role in raising awareness about the exotic pet trade and the responsibilities it entails. By rescuing animals that have been discarded or improperly cared for, the centre highlights the ethical issues surrounding exotic pets. Its work contributes to broader conservation efforts by educating the public and advocating for better treatment of exotic species in captivity.Planning Your Visit
Visits to SEAR are by appointment only, ensuring personalized and meaningful interactions. The centre is open primarily during summer holidays from Wednesday to Sunday, with special bookings available for events. This approach allows SEAR to manage visitor flow carefully, prioritizing animal welfare while offering enriching experiences. Visitors are encouraged to support the sanctuary through donations or by participating in its community activities.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sueno's Stone
16.3 km
Scotland's tallest Pictish monument—a 6.5-metre enigma carved with battle scenes and royal ceremony.
Culloden Viaduct
16.9 km
Scotland’s longest masonry viaduct, a stunning 29-arch railway bridge spanning the River Nairn valley near historic Culloden Battlefield.
Leanach Farm
17.6 km
Experience authentic Highland farm life with luxury comfort, scenic views, and historic sites just minutes from Inverness.
Milton of Clava
18.4 km
Explore ancient Bronze Age burial cairns and standing stones in a serene Scottish setting near the historic Culloden Moor.
Culloden House Hotel
19.3 km
Elegant Georgian mansion with historic charm, fine dining, and tranquil gardens near Inverness in the Scottish Highlands.
Holiday Inn Express Inverness, an IHG Hotel
22.2 km
Comfortable, eco-friendly hotel in Inverness offering modern rooms, free breakfast, and easy access to Highland attractions.
Asliesk Castle (remains)
22.5 km
Explore the ivy-clad ruins of Asliesk Castle, a 16th-century Scottish tower house steeped in history and legend near Elgin, Moray.
Inshes Gate Brewers Fayre
22.9 km
Experience the warmth of family dining at Inshes Gate Brewers Fayre, featuring delicious British cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere.
Kingsmills Hotel
24.0 km
Historic elegance meets modern luxury with spa, pool, fine dining, and tranquil grounds just minutes from Inverness city center.
Silverstrands Guest House
24.2 km
Discover the charm of Inverness at Silverstrands Guest House, where comfort meets Scottish hospitality in a picturesque setting.
The Broad Stone, Inverness
24.2 km
Discover Inverness’s ancient Broad Stone, a mysterious medieval relic with a storied past nestled between city parks.
The Corriegarth
24.3 km
Cozy and friendly Highland hotel with a charming pub, quality dining, and peaceful rooms near Inverness city center.
St John's Scottish Episcopal Church, Inverness
24.4 km
Explore the serene beauty and architectural splendor of St John's Scottish Episcopal Church, a historic landmark in the heart of Inverness.
Cheese & Tomatin
24.4 km
Discover the delightful flavors of Cheese & Tomatin, Inverness' favorite pizza restaurant, where every slice tells a story of quality and taste.
Timberbush Tours Inverness
24.4 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Scotland with Timberbush Tours in Inverness, where every journey unveils the beauty and history of the Highlands.
Unmissable attractions to see
Castle Square
0.2 km
Historic Castle Square in Nairn, where medieval roots meet charming coastal town life and vibrant community culture.
Nairn Highland Games
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Scotland’s oldest free Highland Games, where tradition, sport, and community unite on the scenic Nairn Links.
Co-op Food - Nairn - High Street
0.4 km
Conveniently located Co-op Food store on Nairn High Street, offering fresh groceries and essentials daily from early morning to late evening.
SKY Delights
0.4 km
A cozy health food deli in Nairn offering fresh, wholesome bites and a welcoming atmosphere for health-conscious visitors.
Nairn Museum
0.5 km
Discover Nairn’s history and heritage through engaging exhibits in the charming Regency-era Viewfield House.
Nairn Boat Trips
0.5 km
Moray Firth dolphin cruises from a welcoming harbour town with expert crew and modern comfort.
Nairn Beach
0.5 km
A serene sandy beach on Scotland’s Moray Firth, perfect for family fun, wildlife watching, and stunning coastal sunsets.
Nairn Harbour
0.5 km
A historic fishing harbour turned leisure marina, offering stunning coastal views and a warm Highland welcome on Scotland’s Moray Firth.
Nairn Fisherwife Statue
0.6 km
Discover the Nairn Fisherwife Statue, a poignant tribute to the resilient women of the fishing community, set against breathtaking coastal views.
james's
0.6 km
A cozy seaside coffee and ice cream shop in Nairn offering quality brews, diverse flavors, and a friendly, casual atmosphere near the putting green.
Sainsbury's
1.0 km
A convenient and comprehensive supermarket in Nairn’s Balmakeith Business Park, offering fresh produce, bakery delights, and everyday essentials.
RSPB Culbin Sands
1.4 km
Explore the windswept dunes and rich birdlife of RSPB Culbin Sands, a protected coastal reserve with unique history and stunning natural beauty.
Auldearn Castle
3.3 km
Explore the historic 12th-century motte and dovecote of Auldearn Castle, a royal Scottish stronghold steeped in medieval and Civil War history.
Boath Doocot
3.3 km
Explore the historic 17th-century Boath Doocot, a circular dovecote perched on a mound overlooking the battlefield plains near Auldearn village.
The Secret Beach
4.2 km
Discover Nairn’s Secret Beach, a peaceful stretch of white sands and dunes offering solitude, wildlife, and timeless coastal beauty.
Essential places to dine
Cafe Nairn
0.1 km
Generous Highland breakfasts and exceptional value on Nairn's High Street.
One One Two Wine Bar and Eatery
0.1 km
A stylish Nairn wine bar where small plates with South East Asian and Middle Eastern flavours meet hand‑picked wines in a relaxed, contemporary setting.
Jackos Bar & Diner
0.1 km
A lively grill and family-friendly bar in Nairn offering hearty meals, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere from noon till midnight.
The Royal Bengal
0.1 km
Experience authentic Indian and Bangladeshi cuisine in a smart, welcoming setting on Nairn’s High Street, blending rich flavors with attentive service.
Salt & vinegar
0.2 km
Discover the authentic taste of Britain's favorite dish at Salt & Vinegar, where fresh fish meets golden chips in beautiful Nairn.
Thai Cottage
0.2 km
Authentic Thai flavours in a relaxed, no-frills setting on Nairn’s High Street – perfect for a satisfying, affordable dinner.
Lorenzo
0.2 km
A no-frills pizza takeaway on Nairn’s High Street, serving hot, generous slices for a casual evening meal by the Moray Firth.
Havelock House Hotel
0.2 km
A charming Victorian seaside hotel in Nairn offering cozy rooms, fresh Scottish cuisine, and a lively local bar just steps from the beach.
Ozzy's Fine Dining Restaurant
0.3 km
A unique blend of Scottish and Kurdish fine dining in the heart of Nairn, served with passion and impeccable hospitality.
Nairn Tandoori
0.3 km
A reliable Indian restaurant on Nairn’s High Street, serving aromatic curries, tandoori grills, and generous portions in a relaxed, family-friendly setting.
The Bandstand Hotel
0.3 km
Cozy seaside hotel in Nairn offering local cuisine, sea views, and warm Scottish hospitality on the scenic Highlands coast.
Sun Dancer, Bar and Restaurant
0.4 km
Charming Scottish seafood dining with stunning Moray Firth views in the heart of Nairn’s waterfront.
Uncle Bob's Bar
0.5 km
Experience the lively atmosphere at Uncle Bob's Bar in Nairn—your destination for great drinks, sports action, and community vibes.
The Leerie
0.5 km
Cozy up to fresh Scottish seafood and international flavors in the welcoming ambiance of The Leerie, Nairn’s charming culinary gem.
The Classroom Bistro
0.5 km
A welcoming bistro in Nairn serving fresh, locally sourced Scottish dishes with a modern twist and accommodating diverse dietary needs.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Crafty Wee Birdie
0.1 km
Discover unique local crafts and heartfelt gifts in the welcoming charm of Nairn’s Crafty Wee Birdie boutique.
Preloved Designer Fashion Boutique
0.1 km
Explore unique, sustainable designer fashion treasures in Nairn’s charming boutique, where style meets eco-consciousness.
The Nairn Bookshop
0.1 km
A long‑standing independent bookshop on Nairn’s High Street, with a wide, thoughtful selection of fiction, non‑fiction, children’s books, and local interest titles.
Bridgemill Direct
0.1 km
Your trusted source for quality outdoor clothing and gear in Nairn, bridging adventure with reliable equipment for all ages.
Caora Air Mara
0.2 km
Discover authentic Highland crafts and handmade treasures at Caora Air Mara, Nairn’s beloved artisan shop.
Nickel & Dime
0.2 km
Explore Nickel & Dime in Nairn: your go-to hardware shop for quality tools, paints, and unique home improvement essentials.
The Original Factory Shop (Nairn)
0.3 km
Discover unbeatable discounts on fashion, beauty, and more at The Original Factory Shop in Nairn’s vibrant High Street.
Maggies Hippylicious Dreams
0.3 km
Quirky bohemian shop on Nairn's High Street offering vintage clothing, handmade crafts, and alternative lifestyle treasures.
nairn wool shop
0.3 km
Discover a vibrant hub of wool, yarn, and local crafts in the heart of scenic Nairn, where creativity and community intertwine.
Vitamin Sea Nairn
0.3 km
Explore Vitamin Sea Nairn, a charming gift shop in Nairn, for unique souvenirs and local treasures reflecting the beauty of the Scottish coastline.
British Red Cross shop, Nairn
0.3 km
Explore the British Red Cross shop in Nairn for unique finds and sustainable shopping while supporting a great cause.
In Stitches
0.3 km
Expert dressmaking and alteration services in Nairn, delivering impeccable fit and craftsmanship for every occasion.
Highland Hospice - Nairn Shop
0.4 km
Discover unique treasures and support compassionate hospice care at Highland Hospice - Nairn Shop, a beloved charity retail destination in the Scottish Highlands.
Co-op Food - Nairn - King Street
0.4 km
Experience the convenience of Co-op Food in Nairn, where you can find fresh groceries, local products, and tasty snacks to fuel your adventures.
Brambles
0.4 km
Discover unique ladies’ fashions and accessories at Brambles, Nairn’s charming boutique on Leopold Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Brackla Hotel
0.1 km
A friendly and lively bar with comfortable hotel rooms, perfect for relaxing and socializing in the heart of Nairn.
The Play House
0.3 km
Experience Nairn’s vibrant nightlife at The Play House, a lively nightclub and bar known for energetic music, dancing, and social fun.
Aido's bar
0.3 km
Aido's Bar offers a cozy, friendly pub experience in Nairn with local ales, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
The Albert Inn
0.5 km
Cozy Scottish pub and hotel in Nairn offering exceptional steaks, warm hospitality, and a charming Highland atmosphere.
The Clubhouse B&B
1.0 km
Boutique coastal B&B in Nairn offering modern comfort, friendly service, and easy beach access for a peaceful Highland getaway.
The Fishertown Inn
14.4 km
A cozy Georgian pub in Cromarty offering exceptional food, local ales, and a warm Highland welcome on historic Church Street.
Thistle Bar
15.1 km
Cozy and friendly bar on Forres High Street, offering affordable drinks and a warm local atmosphere every day from 11am to 10pm.
Legends
15.2 km
Lively pub with hearty fare, live weekend music, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Forres.
Sloe & Steady
15.3 km
Discover Forres’ cozy cocktail haven where creative drinks and a warm atmosphere blend for an unforgettable night out.
The Union Tavern
15.9 km
A cozy Fortrose pub offering local ales, live traditional music, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere on the Black Isle.
The Ship Inn
21.3 km
Experience warm Highland hospitality and home-cooked meals at The Ship Inn, your cozy retreat in Invergordon by the Cromarty Firth.
The Snow Goose
22.2 km
Cozy up by the fire at The Snow Goose, Inverness’s charming pub serving hearty Highland classics in a warm, welcoming setting.
The Imperial
24.5 km
A lively traditional Scottish pub and sports bar in Inverness, offering great drinks, hearty pub grub, and nonstop sports action on big screens.
The Tooth & Claw
24.5 km
Inverness’s vibrant rock and live music bar offering rustic charm, local brews, and an inclusive, lively atmosphere.
Platform 8
24.5 km
A lively Inverness pub blending classic charm with modern dining and a celebrated draft beer selection.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Seaforth Club
0.1 km
Experience Nairn’s vibrant social heart at Seaforth Club, where community spirit meets lively nightlife in a welcoming setting.
Xplosive Discos
3.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Xplosive Discos in Nairn, where unforgettable music and karaoke fun await every visitor.
Private Eyes Inverness
24.6 km
Experience Inverness’s vibrant nightlife at Private Eyes, where stylish decor meets great music and a welcoming party atmosphere.
The Piano and Whisky Bar Inverness
25.0 km
Experience the enchanting blend of live piano music and exquisite whisky at The Piano and Whisky Bar in Inverness, a perfect night out.
Moray Jazz Club
33.2 km
Discover the vibrant live music scene at Moray Jazz Club in Elgin, where talented musicians create unforgettable performances in an intimate setting.
Shmelgin
33.3 km
Experience the authentic flavors of Nepal at Shmelgin, Elgin's premier Nepalese restaurant, known for its warm atmosphere and delicious dishes.
Zed Bar
33.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Zed Bar in Elgin, where great drinks and lively atmosphere await every visitor.
Joannas Nightclub
33.3 km
Lively and casual nightclub in Elgin’s town centre, offering weekend late-night music, dancing, and social vibes in a friendly local setting.
Diceys
33.3 km
Experience the lively ambiance and local brews at Diceys, Elgin's favorite pub for relaxation and entertainment.
The Elgin Club
33.6 km
Discover the cozy charm of The Elgin Club, a local bar where visitors can unwind and connect in the heart of Elgin.
The Muckle Cross - JD Wetherspoon
33.7 km
Experience Scottish hospitality at The Muckle Cross, a cozy pub in Elgin offering hearty meals and a wide selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Ross Shire Club
33.7 km
Experience Dingwall’s vibrant nightlife with a welcoming vibe, BYOB policy, and lively social scene at The Ross Shire Club.
Ionic Bar
33.7 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Ionic Bar in Elgin, where local flavors and friendly faces create unforgettable experiences.
the Balavoulin
43.7 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
43.8 km
Discover The Winking Owl in Aviemore for a delightful experience of craft ales, local flavors, and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Educational
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Naturalistic
For the architecture buff
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Instagrammable
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Non-profit
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Educational
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly