Inverness

Capital of the Highlands, Inverness provides each visitor with an impressive blend of city life and stunning natural countryside. Ideal for either relaxing or fast paced holidays, Inverness offers a unique experience as the only city in the beautiful Highlands. Situated at the mouth of the River Ness where it flows into Moray Firth, the name of the city is derived from Inbhir Nis, Scottish Gaelic for 'mouth of the Ness'. As well as boasting an obvious sense of history, evident through the natural landscape and attractions such as Old Hugh Church, the city is believed to be the fastest growing city in Western Europe. Combining the ancient with modernity, Inverness provides an enjoyable holiday experience for the young and old alike. Indeed, in the words of Robert Burns, 'In heaven itself I'll ask no more, than just a highland welcome'.

Attractions

Inverness Castle was rebuilt in 1847 after the original fortress was destroyed by the Jacobites in 1745. Featured on the back of the Scottish fifty pound note, the castle is presently home to the Sheriff's Court. The Castle Garrison Encounter allows the visitor to experience life as a member of the Regiment in 1745.

The Inverness Museum and Art Gallery is situated by the castle and on the first Wednesday evening of each month hosts a local history talk. St Andrew's Cathedral is on the opposite side of the river bank, yet the oldest church is the Old Hugh Church on St Michael's Mount which is reputed to have been a place of worship since the medieval period. The Eden Court Theatre is due to be reopened in time for the Highland Year of Culture in 2007. Numerous sporting and outdoor activities are at hand, including golf, cycling and many watersports. In particular, the City of Inverness Highland Games takes place in July. For those wishing to explore the countryside Inverness is the perfect gateway for experiencing the Highlands. The nearby Ness Islands and the River Ness provide the ideal scenic backdrop for a walk or a cycle ride.

Shopping

The city has a thriving shopping centre and a variety of exciting shops can be found here. The Old Town provides the opportunity to purchase traditional Scottish items such as kilts, whisky and shortbread. On the first Saturday of each month local produce can be purchased from the Farmers Market.

The Eastgate Centre is home to over 60 shops, including many large national chains such as Debenhams, HMV and Boots. The extensive food court provides many different meal options and there are numerous cafes dotted throughout the complex.

Nightlife and Eating Out

Scottish produce is internationally renowned and therefore it should come as no surprise that Inverness is home to many excellent restaurants. Haggis, venison and salmon are just some of the local delicacies. However, there are not only Scottish specialities on the menu; the city also boasts numerous French, Italian, Spanish and Indian eateries. For an award winning meal, Abstract is housed at the Glenmoriston House Hotel and aims to combine luxurious French cooking with home grown produce.

Less expensive and highly recommended are the Mustard Seed Restaurant, Boath House and the Royal Highland Hotel. For a meal with a difference, the barge 'Loch Ness' serves seafood and is situated at Muirtown Basin.

Inverness boasts a varied nightlife to suit all tastes. Pubs such as Hootnanny's and Johnny Foxes offer live music and traditional Celtic forms of entertainment. Upmarket bars such as Barbazza and Bar Pivo should appeal to those searching for a sophisticated night out. The wealth of different forms of entertainment should ensure that no one visiting Inverness fails to have an enjoyable evening. Two of the most popular nightclubs are Bakoo and G's. Visitors should try and visit Scottish Showtime at The Ramada Hotel which is on throughout the summer period. All ages will enjoy this display of traditional Scottish dancing and music.

Tourist Information

Visit ScotlandThistle HouseBeechwood Park NorthInvernessInverness-ShireIV2 3ED

Tel: 01463 716996

Airport

Inverness Airport is situated nine miles east of the city centre, just off the A96, and handles flights from all around the UK. There are six flights a day to London as well as many more to most of the major cities in the UK. For further details see Inverness airport site or the websites of major airlines such as Easyjet, British Airways and BMI.