Inverness , Scotland

Private Inverness Walking Tour

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(11 reviews)

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About this experience

Folklore, Castles & Our Happy Places

The Highlands and Islands are officially the happiest place to live in Scotland. As a result, Inverness, the capital of the Highlands, has repeatedly been crowned the happiest city in Scotland.

On our private walking tour of „Inversneckie", we will help you transforming into one of these happy locals.

Our tour will take you to the town's famous and lesser-known landmarks and to some of our happy places like „The Salad Bar". You will also hear about the sons and daughters of the town and the life in Inverness then and now.

Available options

Private Inverness Walking Tour

What's included

Licensed Tour Guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

We have a look at the magnificient building and the four statues above the entrance. In the 1960s, another „Fab Four” stayed opposite the cathedral and rumour has it that they even wrote a song there.

Stop 2

From rumours to legends: As we head along River Ness towards the city centre, we enjoy a great view onto Inverness Castle and you will hear the story of a saint and a water monster and how the legend of their encounter still attracts visitors to the area.

Inverness is an unhurried place and we take in the atmosphere while continuing down the river and crossing it via a bridge that embodies the gentle rhythm of the city.

Stop 4

You will have noticed the numerous churches along the river by now. So, let’s pay a visit to the oldest: Old High Kirk on St Michaels Mount. Here, some of the darkest events in Scottish history have occurred after the Battle of Culloden in 1746.

You will hear more about the battle and the Jacobite cause as we are walking up Church Street, referred to as the „King’s Highway”. Once the direct route from the harbour to the castle, the street is lined with many grand buildings including the oldest secular house in Inverness.

One of the most impressive buildings in town, Inverness Town House.
Where we tell you about the Inverness Formula, the Mercat Cross & Clach an Cuddainn

Stop 7

We then climb up to our last stop: Castle Hill, from where you will have a brilliant view of the River Ness. You will hear about the history of the castle, Mary Queen of Scot’s visit of Inverness, of a flying dog and, last but not least, of Flora Macdonald, our national heroine.

Up for a pint or a sweet treat now? We know just the place.

What's not included

Private transportation

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN FR

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

10 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

///sleeps.flames.laws

About Inverness

Inverness is a historic city in the Scottish Highlands, known as the capital of the region. It offers a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, with the iconic Loch Ness and the Culloden Battlefield nearby. The city is a gateway to some of Scotland's most stunning landscapes and ancient sites.

Top Attractions

Inverness Castle

A historic castle overlooking the River Ness, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape.

Historical 1-2 hours £5

Loch Ness

A famous freshwater loch known for its deep, dark waters and the legendary Loch Ness Monster.

Nature Half day to full day Free to visit the loch, attractions vary in price

Culloden Battlefield

The site of the 1746 Battle of Culloden, the last pitched battle fought on British soil.

Historical 2-3 hours £14.50

Inverness Museum and Art Gallery

A museum showcasing the history, art, and culture of the Highlands.

Museum 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Haggis, Neeps and Tatties

A traditional Scottish dish made with haggis (a spiced sheep's offal pudding), mashed turnips (neeps), and mashed potatoes (tatties).

Dinner Contains meat and offal, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Cullen Skink

A creamy smoked haddock soup, traditionally made with potatoes, onions, and milk.

Lunch Contains fish, not suitable for those with fish allergies.

Cranachan

A traditional Scottish dessert made with whipped cream, raspberries, honey, and toasted oats.

Dessert Vegetarian-friendly, but contains dairy.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Highlands Boat tours on Loch Ness Visiting spas and wellness centers Strolling along the River Ness Exploring Inverness Museum and Art Gallery Attending local festivals and events Fishing in the River Ness Skiing and snowboarding in the Cairngorms

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the warmest and driest time of the year, with long daylight hours. It's ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the surrounding Highlands.

12°C to 18°C 54°F to 64°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Scottish Gaelic
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Pound Sterling (GBP)

Time Zone

GMT (UTC+0) or BST (UTC+1) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Inverness is generally a safe city, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic safety precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight, especially in crowded areas.
• Be cautious when using ATMs, and avoid using them in isolated areas.
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services, and agree on a fare before starting your journey.

Getting there

By air

Inverness Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from city center

By train

Inverness Railway Station

By bus

Inverness Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus network covers the city and surrounding areas, with frequent services to major attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

City Center Ness Islands Leakey

Day trips

Culloden Battlefield

5 km (3 miles) • Half day

The site of the 1746 Battle of Culloden, the last pitched battle fought on British soil. The visitors center offers interactive exhibits and a museum.

Loch Ness

24 km (15 miles) • Full day

A famous freshwater loch known for its deep, dark waters and the legendary Loch Ness Monster. The Loch Ness Centre & Exhibition offers insights into the loch's history and geology.

Cairngorms National Park

60 km (37 miles) • Full day

The largest national park in the UK, offering a diverse range of landscapes, wildlife, and outdoor activities.

Festivals

Inverness Highland Games • May Inverness Christmas Market • December

Pro tips

Visit the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery to learn about the history and culture of the Highlands.
Take a boat tour on Loch Ness to search for the legendary Loch Ness Monster and explore the loch's stunning scenery.
Explore the Culloden Battlefield and visitors center to learn about the history of the 1746 Battle of Culloden.
Stroll along the River Ness and visit the Ness Islands for a peaceful and scenic escape from the city.
Sample local whisky and cuisine at one of Inverness's many pubs, restaurants, or whisky bars.