Three reasons to visit Inverness:
- The military history - visit nearby Culloden Battlefield, where Bonnie Prince Charlie's Jacobite army were massacred by government soldiers in 1746, before exploring Fort George (winter opening times TBC), the military stronghold built by King George II following the rebellion.
- Quirky things to do - follow the River Ness walk, which crosses the river by hopping over three of the River Ness Islands, and browse a treasure trove of second hand books at Leakey's Bookshop.
- The loch - located just outside the city, Loch Ness boasts towering mountains on both sides and a depth of 227 m. Nothing quite prepares you for your first glimpse of this vast expanse of water. Could there be a monster hiding in its depths?
Don't miss: Clava Cairns, Eden Court Theatre (all live performances are cancelled. Online events are scheduled), Inverness Museum and Art Gallery, Inverness Botanic Garden.
Plan your trip:
Countryside breaks from Inverness
1. Thurso and the NC500
Ard Neakie on Loch Eriboll, between Durness and Tongue
Travel from Inverness: by car (2 hrs 25 minutes), by bus (3 hrs) or by train (3 hrs 50 minutes). Why not drive via the North Coast 500 or the Moray Firth Route to uncover some hidden gems?
Why visit? Head to the very top of mainland Britain for refreshing coastal walks and sweeping sea views out across the sea to Orkney. Thurso is a key town on the North Coast 500, the famous driving route around the stunning landscapes of the north Highlands.
2. Fort William
Ben Nevis, Fort William © Kenny Lam
Travel from Inverness: by car (1 hr 45 minutes) or by bus (2 hrs).
Why visit? Under the shadow of Ben Nevis, the UK's highest mountain, Fort William is located in the Outdoor Capital of the UK and offers plenty of breathtaking scenery to explore. Visit Glen Coe, learn more about the Lochaber Geopark and stroll along the Caledonian Canal.
3. Outer Hebrides
The Calanais Standing Stones, Isle of Lewis
Travel from Inverness: by plane to Benbecula (1 hr 45 minutes) or Stornoway (45 minutes). By car to Uig on Skye (3 hrs) then ferry to Tarbert or by car to Ullapool (1 hr 20 minutes) then by ferry to Stornoway. You can also travel by bus to Ullapool (1 hr 20 minutes).
Why visit? Stroll along the stunning beaches of the Outer Hebrides, an enchanting island chain off Scotland's west coast. Absorb the friendly island culture, explore historic attractions and enjoy delicious food and drink.