Considered the capital of the Highlands, Inverness City Centre lies on the banks of the River Ness near where it flows into the Beauly Firth. Inverness is the northernmost city in the United Kingdom and a thriving cultural hub, with impressive architectural landmarks, engaging museums and two notable battlefields on its doorstep.
Things to do in Inverness City Centre
In the heart of Inverness City Centre is Inverness Cathedral, which was completed in 1869 on a design by architect Alexander Ross. Constructed from red sandstone and granite, it is the most northerly Anglican cathedral in the United Kingdom. In addition to its stone carvings and stunning stained glass windows, it is home to a peal of change-ringing bells. Also of note is the Gothic-style Old High Church, which largely dates back to the 18th century.
Perched on a cliff overlooking the River Ness is Inverness Castle, a 19th-century red sandstone fortification built atop an 11th-century castle. Stroll through the landscaped grounds and learn about the castle’s historic sieges and its associations with Mary, Queen of Scots. A highlight of any visit is taking in the 360-degree views across Inverness from the Castle Viewpoint.
Adjacent lies the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery, which explores the city’s role as the Capital of the Highlands. Get up close to Jacobite artefacts, locally crafted silver and antique bagpipes, then admire portraits of some of Scotland’s most prominent residents. Not to miss are the landscape paintings depicting the Highlands by John Quinton Pringle and Tom Scott.
Getting around Inverness City Centre
Inverness Airport is a 15-minute drive from the city centre and has flights to destinations across Europe. Trains connect from Edinburgh and London to the Inverness railway station and buses travel throughout the city. Inverness City Centre is compact enough to explore on foot.