The Highlanders' Museum at Fort George, Inverness
Explore Scotland’s Highland military legacy through immersive exhibits and a vast collection housed within the historic Fort George.
The Highlanders' Museum, located within the historic Fort George near Inverness, offers a rich journey through the history of the Highland Regiments from just after the Battle of Culloden to the present day. Housing over 40,000 military artefacts, including Victoria Crosses and interactive exhibits, the museum is part of a working army barracks and a Scheduled Ancient Monument. Admission is included with Fort George entry, inviting visitors to explore Scotland's military heritage in a stunning coastal setting.
A brief summary to The Highlanders' Museum
- Inverness, Ardersier, IV2 7TD, GB
- +441313108701
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Admission to the museum is included with the Fort George entry ticket, so plan to explore both for a full experience.
- Allow 1 to 2 hours to fully appreciate the extensive collections and interactive exhibits.
- Visit the ramparts for stunning coastal views and the chance to spot bottlenose dolphins in the Moray Firth.
- Check seasonal opening hours before visiting; the museum operates daily with slightly shorter hours in winter.
- Engage with knowledgeable staff and volunteers who can provide deeper insights into the Highland regiments’ history.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Inverness city center to Fort George takes approximately 25–30 minutes via the A96 and A9 roads. Parking is available on-site at Fort George free of charge. Note that during peak tourist seasons, parking can fill early.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Inverness to Ardersier, where Fort George is located. The journey takes around 40–50 minutes. Buses run multiple times daily but check schedules in advance as frequency varies, especially on weekends.
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Walking
For active travelers staying nearby in Ardersier, walking to the museum is feasible within 20–30 minutes over gently undulating terrain. The route is mostly along minor roads and is suitable for those comfortable with moderate walks.
The Highlanders' Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about The Highlanders' Museum
A Living Tribute to Highland Military Heritage
The Highlanders' Museum is nestled within the grounds of Fort George, a massive 18th-century fortress overlooking the Moray Firth near Inverness. This location itself is steeped in military history, originally built after the Jacobite uprising to secure the Highlands. The museum occupies the former Lieutenant Governor’s quarters, a building classified as a Scheduled Ancient Monument, reflecting its exceptional historical and architectural significance.An Extensive and Nationally Significant Collection
With over 40,000 artefacts, the museum holds the largest collection of Highland military memorabilia outside London. Its exhibits trace the evolution of Highland regiments from the aftermath of the Battle of Culloden through to modern-day units, including the Queen’s Own Highlanders and the 4th Battalion of The Royal Regiment of Scotland. Highlights include 22 Victoria Crosses (16 on display), regimental uniforms, medals, weapons, and archival materials from allied regiments worldwide.Interactive and Immersive Experiences
Visitors can engage with interactive displays such as Medal Finders and a Medal Carousel, which bring to life the stories behind the decorations awarded to Highland soldiers. An interactive shooting gallery offers a hands-on experience of marksmanship. The museum’s knowledgeable staff and volunteers enhance the visit with insights into the regiments’ storied past, making history accessible and vivid.The Museum’s Setting and Atmosphere
Set within the still-active military barracks of Fort George, the museum offers a unique atmosphere where history lives on. The fort’s ramparts provide sweeping views of the surrounding coastal landscape, and the nearby waters are sometimes graced by bottlenose dolphins. The museum’s location combines the solemnity of military heritage with the beauty of the Scottish Highlands.Visitor Amenities and Accessibility
The museum is open daily year-round, with seasonal hours from 9:30 to 17:30 in summer and 10:00 to 16:00 in winter. Admission is included with Fort George’s entry fee, which is £11 for adults and discounted rates for concessions and children. Facilities include a gift shop, café, free parking, and WiFi. The site offers partial accessibility, including level access and mobility aids, though some areas may require stair use.Connecting to Highland Culture and Legacy
Beyond military history, the museum connects visitors to the broader cultural heritage of the Highlands. It highlights the transformation of Jacobite rebels into celebrated soldiers of the British Army and explores the regiments’ roles in global conflicts and peacekeeping missions. The museum also organizes guided Highland tours, further immersing visitors in the region’s history and landscapes.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Culloden House Hotel
11.0 km
Elegant Georgian mansion with historic charm, fine dining, and tranquil gardens near Inverness in the Scottish Highlands.
Culloden Viaduct
11.8 km
Scotland’s longest masonry viaduct, a stunning 29-arch railway bridge spanning the River Nairn valley near historic Culloden Battlefield.
Leanach Farm
11.8 km
Experience authentic Highland farm life with luxury comfort, scenic views, and historic sites just minutes from Inverness.
Milton of Clava
12.8 km
Explore ancient Bronze Age burial cairns and standing stones in a serene Scottish setting near the historic Culloden Moor.
Holiday Inn Express Inverness, an IHG Hotel
13.1 km
Comfortable, eco-friendly hotel in Inverness offering modern rooms, free breakfast, and easy access to Highland attractions.
Inshes Gate Brewers Fayre
14.1 km
Experience the warmth of family dining at Inshes Gate Brewers Fayre, featuring delicious British cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere.
Timberbush Tours Inverness
14.6 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Scotland with Timberbush Tours in Inverness, where every journey unveils the beauty and history of the Highlands.
Cheese & Tomatin
14.7 km
Discover the delightful flavors of Cheese & Tomatin, Inverness' favorite pizza restaurant, where every slice tells a story of quality and taste.
Girvans
14.7 km
Discover Girvans in Inverness, where delightful breakfasts and a warm atmosphere await, perfect for fueling your adventures in the Scottish Highlands.
Mangrove
14.7 km
Experience the rich and vibrant flavors of authentic Indian cuisine at Mangrove in Inverness, a culinary gem that promises an unforgettable dining experience.
Silverstrands Guest House
14.7 km
Discover the charm of Inverness at Silverstrands Guest House, where comfort meets Scottish hospitality in a picturesque setting.
Blackfriars Inverness
14.8 km
Charming boutique hotel and pub in Inverness’ Old Town, blending historic character with modern comfort and Scottish hospitality.
The Broad Stone, Inverness
14.8 km
Discover Inverness’s ancient Broad Stone, a mysterious medieval relic with a storied past nestled between city parks.
MacGregor's
14.8 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of MacGregor's in Inverness, where delicious food and local brews meet Scottish hospitality.
Kingsmills Hotel
14.8 km
Historic elegance meets modern luxury with spa, pool, fine dining, and tranquil grounds just minutes from Inverness city center.
Unmissable attractions to see
Fort George
0.5 km
Explore Fort George’s vast 18th-century fortress, where history, stunning coastal views, and military heritage come alive near Inverness.
Chanonry Point
1.7 km
Experience breathtaking close encounters with bottlenose dolphins at Chanonry Point, a scenic Black Isle peninsula renowned for wildlife and coastal beauty.
Groam House Museum
2.7 km
Discover the intricate world of Pictish and Celtic art at Groam House Museum, home to the iconic Rosemarkie Stone and George Bain’s celebrated designs.
Fortrose Cathedral
3.5 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Fortrose Cathedral, a medieval red sandstone seat of Scottish ecclesiastical power nestled in a tranquil Highland square.
Fairy Glen Falls
4.1 km
Discover the enchanting Fairy Glen Falls, a tranquil woodland walk to twin waterfalls on Scotland’s Black Isle, alive with wildlife and folklore.
The Secret Beach
8.1 km
Discover Nairn’s Secret Beach, a peaceful stretch of white sands and dunes offering solitude, wildlife, and timeless coastal beauty.
Cawdor Castle and Gardens
10.9 km
A fairy-tale Highland castle built around a legendary holly tree, home to the Thanes of Cawdor for over 600 years.
Hugh Miller's Birthplace Cottage and Museum
11.0 km
Step into the world of Hugh Miller at his birthplace cottage and museum, where geology, history, and nature intertwine in Cromarty’s charming setting.
Cromarty Courthouse Museum
11.0 km
Discover Highland justice and local heritage in Cromarty’s elegant 18th-century courthouse museum on the scenic Black Isle.
The National Trust For Scotland
11.0 km
Explore the birthplace and museum of Hugh Miller, Scotland’s pioneering geologist and fossil hunter, nestled in historic Cromarty.
Cromarty beach
11.3 km
Explore Cromarty Beach’s serene shores and ancient fossils where Scotland’s prehistoric past meets stunning coastal beauty.
Cumberland Stone
11.5 km
Explore the captivating history and stunning views at Cumberland Stone, a must-visit historical landmark in Inverness, Scotland.
james's
11.7 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 Museum
11.8 km
Discover Nairn’s history and heritage through engaging exhibits in the charming Regency-era Viewfield House.
Culloden Battlefield
11.8 km
Explore the haunting moor where Scotland’s last pitched battle unfolded, with immersive exhibits and poignant memorials.
Essential places to dine
Crofters
2.6 km
Coastal café in Rosemarkie offering fresh seafood, vegan options, and stunning sea views in a cozy, community atmosphere.
IV10 Cafe Bar Deli
3.7 km
A vibrant café, bar, and deli on the Black Isle serving fresh, locally inspired dishes in a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere.
D'Lish Restaurant and Bar
5.0 km
Experience authentic Scottish flavors at D'Lish Restaurant and Bar in Inverness - your perfect dining retreat amidst breathtaking Highland scenery.
Cawdor Tavern
10.7 km
Highland hospitality meets contemporary cuisine in a welcoming village pub.
Aurora Hotel & Italian Restaurant
11.8 km
Cozy Scottish coastal hotel with authentic Italian dining and warm hospitality in the heart of Nairn.
Strathnairn Beach Cafe
11.8 km
Family-run seaside cafe in Nairn offering fresh local seafood, stunning beach views, and a casual, welcoming atmosphere.
The Leerie
11.8 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
11.9 km
A welcoming bistro in Nairn serving fresh, locally sourced Scottish dishes with a modern twist and accommodating diverse dietary needs.
Uncle Bob's Bar
12.0 km
Experience the lively atmosphere at Uncle Bob's Bar in Nairn—your destination for great drinks, sports action, and community vibes.
The Bandstand Hotel
12.0 km
Cozy seaside hotel in Nairn offering local cuisine, sea views, and warm Scottish hospitality on the scenic Highlands coast.
Havelock House Hotel
12.0 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
12.1 km
A unique blend of Scottish and Kurdish fine dining in the heart of Nairn, served with passion and impeccable hospitality.
Nairn Tandoori
12.1 km
A reliable Indian restaurant on Nairn’s High Street, serving aromatic curries, tandoori grills, and generous portions in a relaxed, family-friendly setting.
Lorenzo
12.1 km
A no-frills pizza takeaway on Nairn’s High Street, serving hot, generous slices for a casual evening meal by the Moray Firth.
The Allangrange
12.1 km
Experience warm Highland hospitality, hearty Scottish cuisine, and cozy comfort at The Allangrange Arms in Munlochy’s scenic Black Isle.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
MacMuddles Shop
10.6 km
Discover unique antiques and curiosities in the charming, historic village of Cawdor at MacMuddles Shop.
Brambles
11.9 km
Discover unique ladies’ fashions and accessories at Brambles, Nairn’s charming boutique on Leopold Street.
Co-op Food - Nairn - King Street
11.9 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.
The Highland Weigh
12.0 km
Nairn’s welcoming zero-waste shop and vegetarian café blending sustainable living with community spirit and delicious organic coffee.
Highland Hospice - Nairn Shop
12.0 km
Discover unique treasures and support compassionate hospice care at Highland Hospice - Nairn Shop, a beloved charity retail destination in the Scottish Highlands.
Ink And Pink
12.0 km
Explore the latest trends at Ink And Pink, Nairn's premier ladies' clothing shop, where style meets comfort in a charming boutique setting.
British Red Cross shop, Nairn
12.0 km
Explore the British Red Cross shop in Nairn for unique finds and sustainable shopping while supporting a great cause.
nairn wool shop
12.0 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
12.1 km
Explore Vitamin Sea Nairn, a charming gift shop in Nairn, for unique souvenirs and local treasures reflecting the beauty of the Scottish coastline.
Maggies Hippylicious Dreams
12.1 km
Quirky bohemian shop on Nairn's High Street offering vintage clothing, handmade crafts, and alternative lifestyle treasures.
The Original Factory Shop (Nairn)
12.1 km
Discover unbeatable discounts on fashion, beauty, and more at The Original Factory Shop in Nairn’s vibrant High Street.
Nickel & Dime
12.1 km
Explore Nickel & Dime in Nairn: your go-to hardware shop for quality tools, paints, and unique home improvement essentials.
The Nairn Bookshop
12.2 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
12.2 km
Explore unique, sustainable designer fashion treasures in Nairn’s charming boutique, where style meets eco-consciousness.
Crafty Wee Birdie
12.2 km
Discover unique local crafts and heartfelt gifts in the welcoming charm of Nairn’s Crafty Wee Birdie boutique.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Union Tavern
3.6 km
A cozy Fortrose pub offering local ales, live traditional music, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere on the Black Isle.
The Fishertown Inn
11.0 km
A cozy Georgian pub in Cromarty offering exceptional food, local ales, and a warm Highland welcome on historic Church Street.
The Clubhouse B&B
11.2 km
Boutique coastal B&B in Nairn offering modern comfort, friendly service, and easy beach access for a peaceful Highland getaway.
The Albert Inn
11.8 km
Cozy Scottish pub and hotel in Nairn offering exceptional steaks, warm hospitality, and a charming Highland atmosphere.
Aido's bar
12.1 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
12.1 km
Experience Nairn’s vibrant nightlife at The Play House, a lively nightclub and bar known for energetic music, dancing, and social fun.
Brackla Hotel
12.3 km
A friendly and lively bar with comfortable hotel rooms, perfect for relaxing and socializing in the heart of Nairn.
The Ship Inn
12.9 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
13.1 km
Cozy up by the fire at The Snow Goose, Inverness’s charming pub serving hearty Highland classics in a warm, welcoming setting.
Innes Bar
14.6 km
Historic Inverness pub with hearty fare, lively darts nights, and a warm Highland welcome at the heart of the city.
Platform 8
14.8 km
A lively Inverness pub blending classic charm with modern dining and a celebrated draft beer selection.
The Exchange
14.8 km
A welcoming Inverness pub offering hearty meals, great drinks, and a lively atmosphere in the city center.
The Phoenix Ale House
14.8 km
A cosy, award-winning Scottish pub in Inverness serving local ales and hearty traditional dishes with a welcoming Highland spirit.
The Imperial
14.8 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
14.8 km
Inverness’s vibrant rock and live music bar offering rustic charm, local brews, and an inclusive, lively atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Cultural Heritage
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Historic
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
