Wander charming riverside pathways; uncover churches and castles steeped in history, and enjoy the best free things to do in Inverness, Scotland.
There’s an understated charm about Inverness, capital of the Highlands.
While making an excellent starting point for driving the scenic North Coast 500 driving route, and visiting the shores of Loch Ness, Inverness has plenty of its own attractions to keep you entertained.
Aside from the city’s picturesque setting along the River Ness, there are botanic gardens to wander, highland history to uncover, Scottish cuisine to savour and century-old whisky distilleries to visit.
To help you plan your own trip, we have put together this guide, of the best free things to do in Inverness, Scotland.
- FREE THINGS TO DO IN INVERNESS SCOTLAND
- 1 – INVERNESS CATHEDRAL
- 2 – ABERTARFF HOUSE
- 3 – LEAKEY'S BOOKSHOP
- 4 – INVERNESS MUSEUM AND ART GALLERY
- 5 – NESS ISLANDS
- 6 – INVERNESS CASTLE
- 7 – INVERNESS BOTANIC GARDENS
- 8 – VICTORIAN MARKET
- FREE THINGS TO DO NEAR INVERNESS
- 9 – LOCH NESS
- 10 – THE BLACK ISLE (Things To Do Around Inverness)
- 11 – CLAVA CAIRNS
- OTHER INVERNESS MUST SEE SIGHTS
- 12 – FORT GEORGE
- 13 – CULLODEN BATTLEFIELD AND VISITOR CENTRE
- THINGS TO DO IN INVERNESS AT NIGHT
- BEST PLACES TO EAT IN INVERNESS
- ACCOMMODATION IN INVERNESS
FREE THINGS TO DO IN INVERNESS SCOTLAND
FREE THINGS TO DO IN INVERNESS CITY CENTRE
1 – INVERNESS CATHEDRAL
Enjoying an enviable position on the edge of River Ness, Inverness Cathedral is a popular landmark in the city. Also known as St. Andrews Cathedral, the first foundation stone was laid on the 17th October 1866.
Its Victorian Gothic styled architecture built of red Tarradale stone, and its sheer size, gives it an air of elegance and prominence. In fact, it is the most northerly cathedral in mainland Britain, befitting for a city known as the capital of the Scottish Highlands.
Welcoming visitors all faiths, the Cathedral is one of the most accessible things to see in Inverness as its open 365 days of the year. Entry to the Cathedral is free, however a donation of £2 is much appreciated to help with the building’s upkeep.
The nave columns are built of Peterhead granite, and the cathedral contains a ring of ten bells, with the tenor bell weighing 17 cwt.
Check the official website for information on upcoming events, and the opening times of the cafe and shop.
Location: On the banks of the River Ness, next to Eden Court Theatre | Parking: Limited metered parking on Ardross Street | Hours: Open 8am to 7pm 365 days a year (7.30–9pm throughout the summer months and in the Spring)
2 – ABERTARFF HOUSE
Owned, restored, and operated by the National Trust for Scotland, this is the oldest surviving house in Inverness.
Abertarff House was originally built for a wealthy family in 1593. While it started out as a town house, by the late 1800s, it was a divided tenement building, housing up to six families.
The two and a half storey town house is easily found on Church Street, in the center of town.
This building has survived monumental historical episodes, from the march of Cromwell’s Army, to Jacobite risings and two world wars.
Abertarff House is one of the best places to visit in Inverness, to see 16th-century domestic architecture, which includes a wonderful turnpike staircase.
Current opening hours can be checked on the official website, but admission to the house is free.
3 – LEAKEY’S BOOKSHOP
You certainly don’t have to be a literature lover to enjoy a stroll around this authentic bookshop.
Family-run and housed for 30 plus years in its present location of an old Gaelic Church, Scotland’s largest second-hand bookshop is full of absolute treasures.
An epic collection of old, rare and second-hand books and maps, are organised with skill and care, into every nook and cranny.
Cosy, inviting and heated by an impressive wood furnace located in the centre of the store, the mezzanine level is accessed by a delightful spiral stair case.
Leakey’s Bookshop is a place to take your time in, browsing at will. In fact the only thing missing, is a quiet corner to lounge in old leather chairs while you sip a coffee. But then, you wouldn’t want to leave!
Location: Church Street | Hours: Monday to Saturday 10am-5.30pm
4 – INVERNESS MUSEUM AND ART GALLERY
Inverness Museum should be on your Inverness sightseeing list, if you are interested in the history and heritage of the Highlands. The oldest museum in the Highland region is spread across three floors.
There are approximately 100,000 items in the museum collection, divided into subject categories which include, archaeology, archives, decorative arts, fine art, natural sciences, social history, textiles and weapons.
The Highlands have a rich history, and the museum offers a great place to get a basic understanding of the timeline of the historical events.
You can view a range of artefacts and collections that celebrate Highland life and heritage. The galleries feature both permanent and temporary exhibitions. Learn about Gaelic culture, the Jacobites, the clearances and life in 20th-century Inverness.
With free admission, a café and shop, a visit to the museum is one of the best things to do in Inverness when it’s raining.
Location: Castle Wynd | Hours: Vary, so check current hours before visiting
5 – NESS ISLANDS
The river Ness curves through Inverness, linking Loch Ness with the Moray Firth. In the middle of the river, are a small group of islands (Ness Islands), which are a peaceful place for a stroll or bike ride.
One of the most popular Inverness tourist attractions, is the 2 mile circuit walk through the city centre along the banks of the River Ness.
The route is on well maintained flat paths and takes you to both sides of the river, via sturdy Victorian-built bridges. Popular with locals, nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, it is also lit up at nightime.
You can walk across the footbridges to explore both sides of the river, which have some popular Inverness sights to check out along the way.
- St Andrew’s Cathedral
- Ladies Walk Viewpoint
- Great War Memorial
- Flora MacDonald Statue
- Inverness Castle
- Inverness Museum
- Abertarff House
The islands also boast a wonderful array of trees, including Douglas Fir, Western Red Cedar and a magnificent Sequoia, plus gorgeous Rhododendrons.
On a sunny day, there’s no better place to be in the city, if you want to escape the hustle and bustle and find a peaceful spot to sit and relax.
6 – INVERNESS CASTLE
I have included Inverness Castle on my list, despite it currently undergoing a massive renovation programme. The phased development will create a sustainable, viable and “must-see” centre that will celebrate the spirit of the Highlands.
With its hilltop location overlooking River Ness, the imposing red sandstone building is a sight to behold. It may come as a surprise, that the building dating back to the 19th-century, was not a castle at all, but housed Inverness Sheriff Court, up until 2020.
When construction is complete, this will be one of the major attractions in Inverness, incorporating The Castle Viewpoint, from where you can enjoy panoramic views from the North Tower, towards Loch Ness and the Caledonian Canal.
The wider redeveloped castle will be opened up as a tourist and heritage centre, with multimedia and information exhibits.
Until it’s completion, remoured to be in 2025, you will have to keep up to date with the progress, and simply enjoy the view.
7 – INVERNESS BOTANIC GARDENS
For all nature lovers, a visit to Inverness Botanic Gardens is a must, plus it’s one of the best free things to do in Inverness.
Don’t miss the delightful tropical house, with carp pond and waterfalls.
Although small in size, the gardens have a good selection of tropical and alpine plants, and make a lovely place to stroll around.
Location: Bught Lane | Hours: Daily 10am-4pm
8 – VICTORIAN MARKET
One of the most unique Inverness attractions, is a wonderful Victorian covered market in the heart of the city. The building dates back to 1890, and is home to over 30 independent businesses, many who have been trading for generations.
A newly refurbished Market Hall has central seating so you can grab some great local produce, take a pew and people watch.
The building still retains some wonderful features, including an ornate cast-iron and wooden domed roof, plus beautiful round-headed shop fronts.
If you enter the market via the Church Street entrance, look out for the markings on the sandstone arch, where the old fish merchants used to sharpen their knives.
For clothing stores and other general retailers, head to the High Street for plenty of great options.
If you are exploring Scotland on a road trip, and plan to travel to the north of Scotland via loch ness, the Isle of Skye or drive the North Coast 500 route, stock up on supplies before you go.
There are numerous supermarkets, delis and a Marks & Spencer Food Hall to pick up everything you need.
Location: There are four entrances to the Victorian Market- Academy Street, Church Street, Union Street and Queensgate | Hours: Daily from 8am-8pm, although individual business may have different hours.
FREE THINGS TO DO NEAR INVERNESS
There are some great places to visit near Inverness, on a day trip or day tour. Some of the areas top things to explore, are located within a short drive from the city, making Inverness an ideal base for your travel plans.
When it comes to historical things to see, Inverness has some absolute gems.
9 – LOCH NESS
Loch Ness needs little introduction due to the mystery surrounding “Nessie, aka the Loch Ness Monster. If you only have time for one day trip from Inverness, make it here.
There are so many free things to do at Loch Ness, including driving around the lake itself. Here are our favourite things to do:
- Walking trails at Reelig Glen
- Ruins of Beauly Priory date back to the early 13th-century.
- 360-degree views of the surrounding areas from Suidhe viewpoint.
- The spectacular Falls of Foyers trail.
- View Plodda Falls which plunge 150 ft into a dramatic gorge.
Some other attractions which you might enjoy, which come with a charge, include:
- Located on the edge of Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle may have been abandoned in the 17th-century, but the ruins are well worth exploring. With superb views over the Great Glen, there’s a wealth of sights to explore.
- Take a boat cruise on the Loch Ness. There are numerous cruise companies to choose from. You can take a bus tour from Inverness, join a small group tour, or simply book direct with Cruise Loch Ness.
10 – THE BLACK ISLE (Things To Do Around Inverness)
Many people visit the Black Isle when driving the North Coast 500 route. Reached via Kessock Bridge, the peninsula is a region worthy of exploring for a few days.
- Visit Fortrose Cathedral
- Take a daily tour of Black Isle Brewery.
- Spot dolphins from Chanonry Point.
- Walk through Fairy Glen
11 – CLAVA CAIRNS
This well-preserved Bronze Age cemetery dates back 4,000 years. Located near Culloden Moor, the site consists of ring cairns, kerb cairns, standing stones and passage graves.
The area is free to visit year-round, and there is parking, but no facitities.
OTHER INVERNESS MUST SEE SIGHTS
The following things to do around Inverness are chargeable, (unless Historic Scotland Members), but definitely worth visiting.
12 – FORT GEORGE
One of Europe’s finest artillery fortifications, Fort George has an imposing position, guarding the narrows in the Moray Firth.
Built in 1748, the operational military base, is one of the best Inverness things to do for history buffs.
Walk around the ramparts, tour the excellent museum exhibits, and view the superb collection of arms.
Location: Near Ardersier, IV2 7TD | Cost: Free for Historic Scotland Members, Standard admission £10. Concessions available.
13 – CULLODEN BATTLEFIELD AND VISITOR CENTRE
Culloden Battlefield marks the site of the historic battle between the Jacobites, fighting for Bonnie Prince Charlie, and the English, fighting for the Duke of Cumberland.
It was here on this desolate moor, on the 16th of April 1746, that the Jacobite Rising came to a tragic and bloody end. The last pitched battle on British Soil, was over in less than an hour.
The battlefield is the resting place of 1,500 Jacobite and 50 Government soldiers who fought and died in the battle.
The vast open moor has red and blue flags marking the positions of both sides during the battle, together with grave markers.
The interactive visitor centre depicts the run up to the battle, and the perspective from each side, including the role that France played. You can also experience the battle in an immersive surround cinema.
The fee-paying car park allows you free entry to the battlefield, however we thoroughly recommend paying for entry to the visitor centre. You will have a much better experience walking around the battlefield if you know the facts of the conflict.
There is a lovely café and gift shop, which again, are free to enter.
Location: Culloden Moor, Culloden | Cost: Battleground is free, Visitor Centre is Free for Historic Scotland Members, Standard admission £14. Concessions available.
THINGS TO DO IN INVERNESS AT NIGHT
If you are looking for evening entertainment, Inverness doesn’t disappoint. One of the most romantic things to do in Inverness, is walking along the Riverside.
In the evening, the bridges, churches and castle are lit up, making for an atmospheric walk.
LISTEN TO LIVE MUSIC
Inverness has a thriving live music scene, with Hootananny, Gellion Bar and MacGregor’s Bar being popular hangouts.
- Hootananny – 67 Church Street
- Gellions Bar – 14 Bridge Street
- MacGregor’s Bar – 109 to 113 Academy Street
THEATRE AND CINEMA
Eden Court is an independent arts and culture complex. Check listings for their full and varied programme. If you’re looking for things to do in Inverness for families, a visit to this venue ticks all the boxes.
Location: Bishops Road
BEST PLACES TO EAT IN INVERNESS
One of the best things to do in Inverness, involves eating at one of the many city’s eateries. There are endless options for dinner in Inverness city centre. Here are our suggestions.
- The Castle Tavern (1 View Place) serves traditional Scottish food and a large selection of ales, all with great castle views.
- The Mustard Seed (16 Fraser Street) is a very popular restaurant serving lunch and dinner. Enjoy alfresco dining on the top floor terrace with uninterrupted views of the River. If you don’t have a reservation, go at 5pm for the early evening serving.
- Fig & Thistle (4-6 Stephen’s Brae) is a small boutique bistro serving modern Scottish cuisine.
- Velocity Café (1 Crown Avenue) serves great breakfasts, soups, bagels and more.
ACCOMMODATION IN INVERNESS
When it comes to accommodation, Inverness has options for every budget.
One of the best 5 star hotels in Inverness, is Ness Walk, which has luxurious rooms, period features and a delightful lounge.
Or why not splash out at Rocpool Reserve Hotel & Restaurant which has luxurious boutique accommodation and exceptional staff.
If self-catering apartments in Inverness are more your style, check out Highland Apartments by Mansley, which have on-site parking.
As you can see, there are plenty of fun things to do in Inverness, and around the immediate area. When you plan your Scotland Itinerary, make sure to spend a day exploring this picturesque city.
Need more inspiration for future trips? Head to our Destinations page and discover other future travel spots!
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