The Highland Weigh: Nairn's Zero-Waste Hub and Cozy Café
Nairn’s welcoming zero-waste shop and vegetarian café blending sustainable living with community spirit and delicious organic coffee.
The Highland Weigh in Nairn is a pioneering zero-waste shop and vegetarian café dedicated to sustainability and community engagement. Open since November 2022, it offers plastic-free products, organic coffee, and a warm, inviting atmosphere with a wood burner. The shop features self-serve scales, gravity dispensers, and a peanut butter machine, encouraging visitors to embrace a plastic-free lifestyle while enjoying locally sourced goods and delicious treats.
A brief summary to The Highland Weigh
- 3b High St, Nairn, IV12 4AG, GB
- +441667457660
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Try making your own peanut butter with the in-store machine for a fun and unique experience.
- Visit during the Climate Café events to engage in community discussions on sustainability.
- Enjoy a warm drink by the wood burner on cooler days for a cozy atmosphere.
- Bring your own containers to fill with plastic-free products using the self-serve scales.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
The Highland Weigh location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Cold Weather
Discover more about The Highland Weigh
A Modern Take on Traditional Shopping
The Highland Weigh opened its doors in November 2022 with a mission to reduce plastic waste and promote sustainable living in Nairn. Inspired by a simple change to a bamboo toothbrush, the founders envisioned a zero-waste store that combines ethical shopping with a welcoming community space. The shop’s design reflects this ethos, featuring self-serve scales and gravity dispensers that allow customers to buy exactly what they need without packaging waste. This approach revives a nostalgic shopping experience with a contemporary, eco-conscious twist.A Warm and Inviting Atmosphere
Inside, the shop doubles as a vegetarian café offering organic coffee produced with solar power. A wood burner provides a cozy warmth year-round, creating a relaxed environment where visitors can enjoy their drinks alongside freshly baked goods such as almond croissants and breakfast burritos. The café’s commitment to sustainability extends to its food offerings, emphasizing local and plastic-free products that align with the store’s zero-waste philosophy.Community and Climate Action
Beyond retail, The Highland Weigh actively fosters community engagement through initiatives like the Climate Café, launched in August 2023. These events encourage meaningful discussions on climate action and sustainability, helping to build a network of environmentally conscious locals. The shop’s social enterprise model also highlights its dedication to creating positive social and environmental impact, recognized through nominations for awards such as the VIBES Award and Social Enterprise Scotland’s One to Watch.Impact and Achievements
By mid-2024, The Highland Weigh had helped save over 45,000 pieces of plastic from entering local waste streams, a testament to the effectiveness of its plastic-free product range and community support. The store balances competitive pricing with a focus on quality local products, making sustainable choices accessible. Its founders bring diverse expertise from nursing, corporate procurement, social enterprise, and business advisory roles, all united by a passion for environmental stewardship.Unique Features and Offerings
Visitors can engage hands-on with the store’s unique features, such as making their own peanut butter using an in-store machine. This interactive element adds a playful dimension to the shopping experience, especially for families and children. The Highland Weigh also offers a blog with tips on starting a zero-waste lifestyle, further extending its educational mission beyond the physical shop.Location and Setting
Situated at 3b High Street in Nairn, The Highland Weigh is part of a vibrant local community. Its location in a historic Scottish town complements its ethos of returning to simpler, less wasteful ways of living. The shop’s friendly staff and inviting space make it a must-visit for anyone interested in sustainable living, ethical shopping, and enjoying quality vegetarian fare in a relaxed setting.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Culloden Viaduct
16.4 km
Scotland’s longest masonry viaduct, a stunning 29-arch railway bridge spanning the River Nairn valley near historic Culloden Battlefield.
Sueno's Stone
16.6 km
Scotland's tallest Pictish monument—a 6.5-metre enigma carved with battle scenes and royal ceremony.
Leanach Farm
17.2 km
Experience authentic Highland farm life with luxury comfort, scenic views, and historic sites just minutes from Inverness.
Milton of Clava
18.0 km
Explore ancient Bronze Age burial cairns and standing stones in a serene Scottish setting near the historic Culloden Moor.
Culloden House Hotel
18.9 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
21.8 km
Comfortable, eco-friendly hotel in Inverness offering modern rooms, free breakfast, and easy access to Highland attractions.
Inshes Gate Brewers Fayre
22.5 km
Experience the warmth of family dining at Inshes Gate Brewers Fayre, featuring delicious British cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere.
Asliesk Castle (remains)
22.9 km
Explore the ivy-clad ruins of Asliesk Castle, a 16th-century Scottish tower house steeped in history and legend near Elgin, Moray.
Kingsmills Hotel
23.6 km
Historic elegance meets modern luxury with spa, pool, fine dining, and tranquil grounds just minutes from Inverness city center.
Silverstrands Guest House
23.8 km
Discover the charm of Inverness at Silverstrands Guest House, where comfort meets Scottish hospitality in a picturesque setting.
The Broad Stone, Inverness
23.8 km
Discover Inverness’s ancient Broad Stone, a mysterious medieval relic with a storied past nestled between city parks.
The Corriegarth
23.9 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
23.9 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
23.9 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
24.0 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
Co-op Food - Nairn - High Street
0.1 km
Conveniently located Co-op Food store on Nairn High Street, offering fresh groceries and essentials daily from early morning to late evening.
Castle Square
0.3 km
Historic Castle Square in Nairn, where medieval roots meet charming coastal town life and vibrant community culture.
Nairn Museum
0.4 km
Discover Nairn’s history and heritage through engaging exhibits in the charming Regency-era Viewfield House.
Scottish Exotic Animal Rescue
0.4 km
A compassionate refuge in Nairn offering sanctuary and education for exotic animals through immersive, appointment-based visits.
Nairn Highland Games
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Scotland’s oldest free Highland Games, where tradition, sport, and community unite on the scenic Nairn Links.
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.
Nairn Beach
0.7 km
A serene sandy beach on Scotland’s Moray Firth, perfect for family fun, wildlife watching, and stunning coastal sunsets.
Nairn Boat Trips
0.9 km
Moray Firth dolphin cruises from a welcoming harbour town with expert crew and modern comfort.
Nairn Harbour
1.0 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
1.0 km
Discover the Nairn Fisherwife Statue, a poignant tribute to the resilient women of the fishing community, set against breathtaking coastal views.
Sainsbury's
1.1 km
A convenient and comprehensive supermarket in Nairn’s Balmakeith Business Park, offering fresh produce, bakery delights, and everyday essentials.
RSPB Culbin Sands
1.8 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
3.5 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
3.5 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
3.9 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
Uncle Bob's Bar
0.0 km
Experience the lively atmosphere at Uncle Bob's Bar in Nairn—your destination for great drinks, sports action, and community vibes.
The Classroom Bistro
0.1 km
A welcoming bistro in Nairn serving fresh, locally sourced Scottish dishes with a modern twist and accommodating diverse dietary needs.
Nairn Tandoori
0.2 km
A reliable Indian restaurant on Nairn’s High Street, serving aromatic curries, tandoori grills, and generous portions in a relaxed, family-friendly setting.
Ozzy's Fine Dining Restaurant
0.2 km
A unique blend of Scottish and Kurdish fine dining in the heart of Nairn, served with passion and impeccable hospitality.
The Leerie
0.2 km
Cozy up to fresh Scottish seafood and international flavors in the welcoming ambiance of The Leerie, Nairn’s charming culinary gem.
Aurora Hotel & Italian Restaurant
0.2 km
Cozy Scottish coastal hotel with authentic Italian dining and warm hospitality in the heart of Nairn.
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.
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.
Salt & vinegar
0.3 km
Discover the authentic taste of Britain's favorite dish at Salt & Vinegar, where fresh fish meets golden chips in beautiful Nairn.
The Royal Bengal
0.3 km
Experience authentic Indian and Bangladeshi cuisine in a smart, welcoming setting on Nairn’s High Street, blending rich flavors with attentive service.
One One Two Wine Bar and Eatery
0.4 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.
Cafe Nairn
0.4 km
Generous Highland breakfasts and exceptional value on Nairn's High Street.
Havelock House Hotel
0.4 km
A charming Victorian seaside hotel in Nairn offering cozy rooms, fresh Scottish cuisine, and a lively local bar just steps from the beach.
The Bandstand Hotel
0.4 km
Cozy seaside hotel in Nairn offering local cuisine, sea views, and warm Scottish hospitality on the scenic Highlands coast.
Jackos Bar & Diner
0.5 km
A lively grill and family-friendly bar in Nairn offering hearty meals, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere from noon till midnight.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Highland Weigh
0.0 km
Nairn’s welcoming zero-waste shop and vegetarian café blending sustainable living with community spirit and delicious organic coffee.
Ink And Pink
0.0 km
Explore the latest trends at Ink And Pink, Nairn's premier ladies' clothing shop, where style meets comfort in a charming boutique setting.
Highland Hospice - Nairn Shop
0.1 km
Discover unique treasures and support compassionate hospice care at Highland Hospice - Nairn Shop, a beloved charity retail destination in the Scottish Highlands.
Brambles
0.1 km
Discover unique ladies’ fashions and accessories at Brambles, Nairn’s charming boutique on Leopold Street.
British Red Cross shop, Nairn
0.1 km
Explore the British Red Cross shop in Nairn for unique finds and sustainable shopping while supporting a great cause.
Co-op Food - Nairn - King Street
0.1 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.
Vitamin Sea Nairn
0.1 km
Explore Vitamin Sea Nairn, a charming gift shop in Nairn, for unique souvenirs and local treasures reflecting the beauty of the Scottish coastline.
nairn wool shop
0.2 km
Discover a vibrant hub of wool, yarn, and local crafts in the heart of scenic Nairn, where creativity and community intertwine.
Maggies Hippylicious Dreams
0.2 km
Quirky bohemian shop on Nairn's High Street offering vintage clothing, handmade crafts, and alternative lifestyle treasures.
The Original Factory Shop (Nairn)
0.2 km
Discover unbeatable discounts on fashion, beauty, and more at The Original Factory Shop in Nairn’s vibrant High Street.
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 Nairn Bookshop
0.3 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.
Preloved Designer Fashion Boutique
0.3 km
Explore unique, sustainable designer fashion treasures in Nairn’s charming boutique, where style meets eco-consciousness.
Crafty Wee Birdie
0.4 km
Discover unique local crafts and heartfelt gifts in the welcoming charm of Nairn’s Crafty Wee Birdie boutique.
Bridgemill Direct
0.5 km
Your trusted source for quality outdoor clothing and gear in Nairn, bridging adventure with reliable equipment for all ages.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Aido's bar
0.1 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 Play House
0.2 km
Experience Nairn’s vibrant nightlife at The Play House, a lively nightclub and bar known for energetic music, dancing, and social fun.
The Albert Inn
0.2 km
Cozy Scottish pub and hotel in Nairn offering exceptional steaks, warm hospitality, and a charming Highland atmosphere.
Brackla Hotel
0.6 km
A friendly and lively bar with comfortable hotel rooms, perfect for relaxing and socializing in the heart of Nairn.
The Clubhouse B&B
0.8 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
15.4 km
Cozy and friendly bar on Forres High Street, offering affordable drinks and a warm local atmosphere every day from 11am to 10pm.
Legends
15.5 km
Lively pub with hearty fare, live weekend music, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Forres.
The Union Tavern
15.6 km
A cozy Fortrose pub offering local ales, live traditional music, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere on the Black Isle.
Sloe & Steady
15.7 km
Discover Forres’ cozy cocktail haven where creative drinks and a warm atmosphere blend for an unforgettable night out.
The Ship Inn
21.2 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
21.8 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
24.1 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
24.1 km
Inverness’s vibrant rock and live music bar offering rustic charm, local brews, and an inclusive, lively atmosphere.
Platform 8
24.1 km
A lively Inverness pub blending classic charm with modern dining and a celebrated draft beer selection.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Seaforth Club
0.3 km
Experience Nairn’s vibrant social heart at Seaforth Club, where community spirit meets lively nightlife in a welcoming setting.
Xplosive Discos
2.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Xplosive Discos in Nairn, where unforgettable music and karaoke fun await every visitor.
Private Eyes Inverness
24.2 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
24.6 km
Experience the enchanting blend of live piano music and exquisite whisky at The Piano and Whisky Bar in Inverness, a perfect night out.
The Ross Shire Club
33.4 km
Experience Dingwall’s vibrant nightlife with a welcoming vibe, BYOB policy, and lively social scene at The Ross Shire Club.
Moray Jazz Club
33.6 km
Discover the vibrant live music scene at Moray Jazz Club in Elgin, where talented musicians create unforgettable performances in an intimate setting.
Shmelgin
33.7 km
Experience the authentic flavors of Nepal at Shmelgin, Elgin's premier Nepalese restaurant, known for its warm atmosphere and delicious dishes.
Zed Bar
33.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Zed Bar in Elgin, where great drinks and lively atmosphere await every visitor.
Joannas Nightclub
33.7 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
33.7 km
Experience the lively ambiance and local brews at Diceys, Elgin's favorite pub for relaxation and entertainment.
The Elgin Club
34.0 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
34.0 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.
Ionic Bar
34.1 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Ionic Bar in Elgin, where local flavors and friendly faces create unforgettable experiences.
the Balavoulin
43.5 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
43.5 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
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Bohemian Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Car-Free Access
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Mindfulness
- Community Engagement
- 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
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly