Inverness – The Capital of the Highlands & 24 Things to Know

Inverness, the gateway to the Highlands in Scotland, what a remarkable place you are. Often overlooked for the country’s capital, this city has a lot to offer its guests. But why choose here over Edinburgh, Glasgow, or any of the Scottish islands for that matter? While we’d love you to do a round trip of Scotland with us, we know time can be precious, so for now let's show you why we love the capital of the Highlands.  

Coming up in this article: 

• What Makes Inverness Special? 

• Top 5 Facts About Inverness 

• Top 4 Places You Can Reach in a Day 

• Top 5 Events to Experience 

• Top 5 Eating and Drinking Spots in Inverness 

• Top 5 Inverness Attractions

What Makes Inverness Special? 

Combining history, scenic beauty and adventure, the capital of the Highlands is perfectly situated for exploring some of Scotland’s most loved attractions, while also being within reach to the rugged Highlands. And if that’s not what makes this region of Scotland special, we don’t know what will. But don’t just take our word for it. Live and breathe it for yourself. We have plenty of tours from Inverness to explore, whether you are keen to find a famous water monster lurking in the depths of the Loch Ness, or re-inact Macbeth at its home in Inverness Castle, you won’t be disappointed. 

Top 5 Facts About Inverness

• Inverness is the most northerly city in Britain.

• The population is 476,870.

• Inverness became a city in the year 2000.

• It has been referred to as the 'happiest place in Scotland'.

• Inverness means the ‘mouth of the river Ness’.

Top 4 places you can reach in a day 

• The Isle of Skye is stunning. And our day tour from Inverness takes you there and back in a day. It’s a twelve-hour journey in which you experience the most breathtaking part of Scotland. 

• Speyside whiskies are delicious. They’re sweeter and lighter, and the region boasts internationally renowned distilleries like Glenfiddich and Glenlivet. Visit a mix of distilleries on our  whisky tours of Scotland. 

• Loch Ness is one of Scotland’s most famous destinations. But it hides more than just a monster. On our Complete Loch Ness day tour, you’ll discover the wonderful waterfalls and charming villages that surround this magnificent loch. 

• The winding roads of Applecross may be the most beautiful journey in Scotland. It ventures past mountains, ancient religious sites, and serene lochs. Check out our one-day tour that takes you there.

Top 5 Events to Experience

• There’s evidence humans have lived here for 2,001 years. The first people were Picts, who were a mysterious tribe of people that dominated Northern Scotland until the Vikings arrived.

• It’s said that St. Columba converted many of the Picts to Christianity by saving a man from the Loch Ness monster in 565AD.

• The real-life Macbeth supposedly lived in a castle in Inverness. Unfortunately, you can’t act out your favourite Shakespeare scenes, because Robert the Bruce burnt down the original castle. But our guide to the best castles in Scotland should help you navigate the many this country has to offer.

• The nearby Caledonian Canal was constructed in the 19th century to facilitate travel between the east and west of Scotland. But ironically, by the time it was finished, the larger modern steam ships couldn’t fit through the passageways.

• There’s a legend that says a winged monster burnt down all the forests in the area. A Scandinavian king summoned the beast, because he was envious of Scotland’s beauty.

Top 5 Eating and Drinking Spots in Inverness

• Kool Runnings. Inverness is nothing like the tropical beaches of Jamaica. But if you fancy warming up with hot Caribbean flavours, then you should visit this tasty family run restaurant in the centre of town.

• Rocpool Restaurant. Treat yourself with fine Highland cuisine in this modern restaurant. Our favourite dish is the Speyside venison.

• Rendezvous Café. Get ready for a day of exploring by eating a quick, cheap Scottish breakfast at this enchanting little café.

• Scotch & Rye. Transporting you back to 1920’s Chicago, this speak-easy is open for the unruly to refresh in. What’s more, they’re dog friendly too!  ​​​​​​​

• Castle Tavern. A venue with a view, and what a view that is. Located at the foot of Inverness castle, you get a ringside from their first floor restaurant, while warming up over a real ale. Afterall, they’ve been recognised by the CAMRA Real Ale Guide.

Top 5 Inverness Attractions

• Inverness Castle. History enthusiasts love this red sandstone castle. The castle guard shut out Mary Queen of Scots, and it’s been sieged more times than you’ve had hot dinners.

• Inverness Botanic Gardens. Contrast tropical plants with Highland pines as you explore this diverse collection of flora.​​​​​​​

• Inverness Museum and Art Gallery. Immerse yourself in Highland history and learn about the battles that shaped Scottish culture. And if you’re feeling generous, there’s a great wee shop where you can buy gifts for your loved ones.​​​​​​​

• River Ness. Escape the city and take a stroll along this gorgeous river. You may catch a glimpse of local fisherman trying to catch a salmon for dinner.​​​​​​​

• Tomnahurich Hill. This mysterious, wooded hill is entrenched in fairy myths and folklore. It’s a little out of town, but take a visit and you won’t be disappointed.

Journey to the Capital of the Highlands with Rabbie’s 

Making the journey north to Inverness is always better with company, and good company is what we provide. Not shy to share a story or two, we like to think of ourselves as the conversation starters at any party. And what better way to embrace the beauty of Inverness than by allowing someone else to take the steering wheel, because you don’t want to miss what this region has for you. Allow our driver-guides to lead the way, and you make sure you don’t forget your camera.

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