Discover Inverness

Posted on 14 July 2022 by Matthew Tyrer

Being both the start and end point for the North Coast 500, many of you will pass through Inverness when you visit our site or before you set off on your next motorhome adventure in one of our hire vans. Primely located in the northern Highlands, Inverness can act as a great base for travellers wanting to explore some of the most popular tourist destinations in northern Scotland.

But Inverness is also a brilliant tourist destination in its own right. As a relatively compact city, most of it can be explored in one or two days, making Inverness the perfect place for a day out if you’re just passing through. To help you make the most of your time here, we’ve put together a quick itinerary of things to do in the city centre!

Go on a walking tour

There’s no better way to get to know the city than to be shown around by a local Invernesian who knows its streets like the back of her hand. Just such a person is Cath at Walk Inverness who has many years of experience as a tour guide. With an extensive knowledge of the local history, she will take you to all the historic sites in the city, including Inverness Castle, the Cathedral and the Old High Church, as well as the famous Leakey’s Bookshop. Each place has its own story to tell!

You can either book a group tour or a private tour with Walk Inverness, both of which should last no more than two hours. The prices and details can be found on their website.

A group of Highland Campervans staff were recently shown around the city by Cath – it was amazing to hear about the local history from a proud Invernesian.

Take a stroll along River Ness

Fun fact – Inverness owes its name to River Ness, which flows through the centre of the city and eventually into Loch Ness.

Some of the most picturesque spots in the city can be seen by walking along the banks of the river and in doing so, you’ll pass landmarks such as Inverness Cathedral and Eden Court as well as the Castle. At high tide, look out for any flippers appearing on top of the water – now we know what you’re thinking but no, it is unlikely that this will be the Loch Ness Monster, but rather a group of seals which are known to travel through River Ness from time to time.

If you have time, you can also visit the Ness Islands, a grouping of islands sitting in the middle of the river which provide a tranquil setting for an afternoon stroll.

A handy spot to refill your water bottle opposite Inverness Cathedral.

Visit Leakey's Bookshop

Image by Walk Inverness

Did you know that Scotland’s largest second-hand bookshop is located right in the heart of Inverness? Its name is Leakey’s Bookshop and if you’re a bookworm it is somewhere not to be missed. You will find it located on Church Street, behind the Old High Church.  

Inside, you will be met with a charming and cosy atmosphere. As a converted old church, Leakey’s still contains antique furnishings such as a pulpit and an upstairs area connected by a lovely spiral staircase. An open log fire in the centre of the shop will also keep you warm.

Make sure to set aside quite a bit of time for this visit, as it is easy to get lost within the tall shelves which surround you and are all filled to the brim with books!

Sample the local food and drink

When it comes to restaurants and bars, Inverness has many hidden gems for you to discover.

Located on the corner of Church Lane and Church Street, the Walrus and Corkscrew bar offers a wide selection of wines as well as platters of cheese and cured meats in an intimate setting. At the Black Isle Bar, you can sample a range of beers crafted just over the water at an organic farm on the Black Isle. If you’re a whisky drinker, we would highly recommend the Malt Room, Inverness’ first out and out whisky bar, also located on Church Street.

Campsites in Inverness:

Bught Park Caravan Park and Campsite

Torvean Caravan Park

Ardtower Caravan Park

So, next time you visit Highland Campervans to pick up a van from the workshop, take a look around the sales yard, or set off in one of our hire vans, make sure to spend some time in Inverness – you won’t regret it!

Plan your motorhome adventure with Highland Campervans!

Whether you’re looking to buy your own motorhome for the first time or rather get a taste of vanlife on an adventurous motorhome holiday, Highland Campervans’ experienced sales and hires teams are always ready to welcome new enthusiasts to the motor homing world!

We take bookings all year round so please check the availability of our hire fleet, as well as our current sales stocklist! 

BOOK A TOUR WITH WALK INVERNESS TODAY!

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Campervan Holidays

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Inverness College UHI

Inverness College UHI

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Walk Inverness

Walk Inverness