10 Amazing activities & things to do in Inverness: What to do in Inverness?
Inverness Castle
Discover the heart of the Highlands at the Inverness Castle Experience. This upcoming attraction celebrates the rich past, vibrant present, and promising future of the Highlands.
Once serving as a courthouse and prison, the castle has been reimagined into an engaging destination showcasing what makes this region exceptional. Visitors can explore interactive displays and beautiful gardens that lead to the South Tower, where immersive storytelling inspired by the Highlands’ culture, landscapes, and traditions awaits.
A storyteller, or seanchaidh, will guide your journey, revealing hidden treasures and tales in every room. In the North Tower, the Ceilidh Rooms provide a gathering space to enjoy Highland music, food, and drinks, with a focus on celebrating the contributions of local musicians. The opening exhibition pays tribute to Runrig, a band integral to the region’s cultural heritage. If you’re looking for things to do in Inverness, a visit to Inverness Castle is a must.
Inverness Cathedral – A Tribute to St. Andrew
As the northernmost Anglican Cathedral in the UK, Inverness Cathedral is a masterpiece of Alexander Ross’s architecture. This historic site is adorned with intricate stone carvings, stunning stained glass windows, and beautifully crafted woodwork, offering a glimpse into Scotland’s ecclesiastical history post-Reformation.
The Cathedral is open year-round and free to enter. Visitors are welcome to explore Monday through Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm and Sundays from 11:30 am to 4 pm, with multilingual guides available during peak season. Daily worship has taken place here since 1866.
Within the Cathedral grounds, Ness Café serves delicious coffee, homemade soups, baked goods, and a variety of dietary-friendly options, making it a perfect spot to relax after your visit. The Cathedral also hosts concerts, events, and exhibitions throughout the year. If you’re wondering what to do in Inverness, exploring this stunning cathedral should be on your list.
Eden Court Theatre and Cinema
Nestled by the River Ness, Eden Court is the largest arts venue in the Highlands, offering a vibrant mix of drama, dance, opera, comedy, and music.
With two theatres, cinemas, studios, and galleries, Eden Court showcases an extensive year-round program that includes West End productions, family shows, cultural cinema, and local performances. During summer, the venue hosts outdoor events under a marquee, bringing art to the natural beauty of the Highlands.
Beyond performances, Eden Court offers educational workshops and drama classes, ensuring a rich cultural experience. Visitors can also enjoy refreshments at the café or explore artwork from local and professional Scottish artists in its galleries.
Inverness Museum & Art Gallery
Dive into the fascinating history and culture of the Highlands at Inverness Museum & Art Gallery. Located at the base of Castle Hill, this museum has been a treasure trove of artifacts since its inception in 1826.
The ground floor features exhibits on geology and natural history, while the upper levels explore more recent history, including Jacobite memorabilia, Highland weapons, and Inverness silverware. In addition to its displays, the museum hosts workshops, talks, and recitals for all ages.
The adjoining art gallery offers a rotating collection of fine art and crafts, showcasing the creativity of local and visiting artists.
Dolphin Spirit Tours
Embark on a thrilling wildlife adventure with Dolphin Spirit. Choose between two unique boat tours:
- Mischief: A high-speed RIB tour offering a chance to spot dolphins, whales, seals, and more in the Moray Firth. This 2-hour trip takes you to prime feeding grounds like Chanonry Point, with expert commentary provided by your skipper.
- Spirit: A family-friendly cruise around the Inverness Firth on a larger boat, featuring indoor seating and wheelchair access. Enjoy scenic views, local folklore, and occasional wildlife sightings.
Both tours promise an unforgettable experience with opportunities to explore the area’s natural beauty and marine life. For an exciting and memorable time, add a Dolphin Spirit Tour to your list of things to do in Inverness.
Uile-Bheist Brewery & Distillery
Situated on the banks of the River Ness, Uile-Bheist is Scotland’s first “Brewstillery,” producing artisanal beers and whiskies using sustainable practices.
Opened in 2022, this innovative distillery combines traditional craftsmanship with modern technology, utilizing a cutting-edge energy center and a dedicated water source. Guided tours led by the Head Distiller and Head Brewer provide an in-depth look at the brewing and distillation process, offering a memorable taste of Highland heritage.
Highland Aviation
Experience the Scottish Highlands like never before with Highland Aviation’s air tours and trial flights. Based at Inverness Airport, these tours allow you to soar over Loch Ness, castles, and mountains while taking in breathtaking views.
Choose from 2- or 4-seater aircraft or gyrocopters, with the opportunity to take control of the plane yourself. Starting at just £124, these flights provide a unique perspective of the Highlands’ stunning landscapes.
If you’re wondering about things to do in Inverness, exploring Highland Aviation should be on your list.
Culloden Battlefield
Step back in time at Culloden Battlefield, the site of the final Jacobite Rising in 1746. This poignant location marks the last pitched battle fought on British soil.
The visitor center offers interactive exhibits, historical artifacts, and an immersive surround cinema experience that brings the battle’s story to life. Outside, headstones mark the graves of fallen clansmen, while a towering memorial cairn honors their sacrifice.
Managed by the National Trust for Scotland, Culloden is a place of reflection and an enduring testament to the Highlanders’ resilience.
The Highlanders’ Museum
Located within Fort George, just outside Inverness, The Highlanders’ Museum tells the story of the region’s military regiments from the 18th century to today.
Housed in a beautifully preserved Lieutenant Governor’s residence, the museum boasts over 40,000 artifacts, making it the largest military collection outside London. Visitors can explore the history of Highland regiments and their contributions to global conflicts, as well as connections to allied forces in Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle
No trip to Inverness is complete without visiting the world-famous Loch Ness. Just a 30-minute journey from the city, this legendary lake invites visitors to uncover the mysteries of the Loch Ness Monster.
Combine a boat tour with a visit to Urquhart Castle, where the ruins offer stunning views over the loch. Perched on a strategic vantage point, the castle is steeped in history and a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Inverness. If you’re searching for what to do in Inverness, a trip to Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle is an experience you won’t want to miss.