Is Inverness a city worth visiting?

Inverness, the capital of the Scottish Highlands, is a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty.

Located in the northern part of Scotland, Inverness is an excellent base for exploring the surrounding areas and indeed has much to offer within its city limits.

If you’re a fan of historical sites, natural wonders, or the Outlander TV series, Inverness is definitely a destination worth considering.

Historical Places Around Inverness

Inverness boasts a range of historical attractions, many of which are in close proximity to the city.

Just a 30-minute journey from the city is Loch Ness, one of the most iconic and well-known locations in Scotland.

Loch Ness is home to the ancient ruins of Urquhart Castle, which provides spectacular views of the surrounding area and has a rich history intertwined with myths and legends about the Loch Ness Monster​​.

For those interested in the turbulent past of Inverness and the Highlands, a 15-minute drive from the city centre will take you to Culloden Battlefield, the final site of the last and most harrowing pitched battle to be fought on British soil during the Jacobite Risings.

The interactive visitor centre provides an immersive experience with fascinating artifacts from both sides of the battle​​.

Another notable historical site is the Clava Cairns, a well-preserved Bronze-Age cairn that dates back about 4,000 years.

This ancient burial site offers a unique glimpse into the historic culture and architecture of the Scottish Highlands.

It is a short 15-minute drive from Inverness and is open to the public year-round free of charge​.

Historical Places Within Inverness

Inverness itself is home to several historical sites.

The mightiest artillery fortification in Britain, Fort George, offers a fascinating insight into 18th century military life, boasting garrison buildings, artillery defences, cannons, and an incredible collection of arms​​.

Inverness Castle, located in the city centre, has been a significant site for centuries, having witnessed many turbulent times and events.

The castle has been rebuilt several times and now features a neo-Norman style structure.

From the castle viewpoint, visitors can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the city and beyond to the Highlands​.

The Inverness Museum & Art Gallery offers an exploration into the art, history, and culture of the Highlands, with a range of exhibitions including archaeology, natural history, and geography.

The museum’s collections feature Jacobite memorabilia, Inverness silverware, authentic Highland weapons, bagpipes, and more.

These are just a few of the things worth doing when visiting Inverness city.

Natural Wonders

Beyond its historical offerings, Inverness also features natural beauty.

The River Ness and Ness Islands offer a tranquil setting to explore the city’s nature and outdoors.

This 2-hour circuit walk through the city provides a unique perspective of Inverness and its surrounding landscapes​​.

Inverness and Outlander

Finally, fans of the Outlander TV series will find Inverness particularly compelling as it features prominently in the series.

It is the city where Claire and Frank Randall start their second honeymoon in the first episode, and many historical sites around Inverness, including the Culloden Battlefield and Clava Cairns, are also featured in the show.

Inverness offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Its proximity to numerous historical sites, combined with its own rich historical offerings, makes it an appealing destination for anyone interested in exploring the depth and breadth of Scottish history.

Its association with the popular Outlander TV series only adds to its allure, making it a must-visit location for fans of the show.

In short, Inverness is not just a gateway to the Highlands, but a gateway to a rich tapestry of history and culture.