Top attractions in and around Inverness

The most northerly city in Britain, Inverness has established a strong reputation in recent years as a major centre for tourism on the edge of the Scottish Highlands. Despite its remote location, Inverness has a wealth of transport links connecting the city to the rest of UK and beyond, meaning it couldn't be easier to visit the top attractions of Inverness on an edifying break in Scotland.

Inverness is a modern city that still holds strong links with the past, and as such has a wide variety of opportunities for visitors - from tourist sites such as Inverness Castle and Inverness Museum and Art Gallery to the diverse offerings of city's contemporary arts scene. Those heading to Inverness to take in its history are also encouraged to check out old sites that are still functioning centuries later, such as the Old High Church on Church Street, which operates guided tours of the historical site alongside daily services.

Inverness is one of Britain's fastest growing cities, but still perfectly preserves its local beauty spots, many of which are now protected by Historic Scotland. One such site is the Clava Cairns, a Bronze Age burial site that will be of great interest to cultural visitors. Those looking to explore the scenic local area of Inverness can also find well developed walking and cycling routes well signposted along the River Ness and beyond, to explore the unique and diverse landscape of the Scottish Highlands.

For all of Inverness' own offerings, the city is still perhaps best associated with nearby Loch Ness, famed the world over as the supposed home of 'Nessie' and easily reached with dedicated bus tours out of the city. The Loch Ness Monster is one of Scotland's most enduringly popular legends, and visitors to the area will be blessed with an abundance of tourist centres devoted to the creature and exploring the likelihood of its existence. With stunning scenery and local attractions such as Urquhart Castle in the area, a day trip to Loch Ness is well worth considering during your Inverness break - whether you catch a glimpse of Nessie or not.

That's not to mention the other picturesque Highlands destinations that are only a short drive away when staying at hotels in Inverness, chiefly the stunning Cairngorms National Park which is home to some of the country's tallest mountains and the perfect place for outdoor activities, including ski breaks in the majestic Highland landscape.