Discover Inverness - Gateway to the Highlands and lochs beyond
Hotels in Inverness offer Highland hospitality and riverside views, from Victorian townhouses overlooking the River Ness to castle hotels perched above the city and cosy guesthouses near Loch Ness departure points. You’ll find everything from historic coaching inns to modern lodges with mountain vistas, all with access to whisky distilleries, Culloden Battlefield, and the gateway to Scotland’s most dramatic landscapes. Whether you’re here for Loch Ness monster hunting, exploring the Highlands, or simply enjoying Scotland’s northernmost city, there’s a stay to match your visit.
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St Andrew’s Cathedral on the bank of Ness river, Inverness
Where to Stay in Inverness
Inverness sits on the River Ness where it meets the Moray Firth, with the compact city centre surrounded by residential areas and Highland countryside. Your choice shapes whether you wake to riverside walks or mountain views.
City Centre and High Street – The historic heart with Victorian Market, riverside walks, Inverness Castle, and pedestrianised shopping streets. Perfect for first-timers wanting walkable access to restaurants, pubs, and tour departure points.
Riverside and Ness Islands – Leafy areas along the River Ness with woodland walks, suspension bridges, and peaceful paths through the city. Ideal for nature lovers and walkers wanting tranquil surroundings with easy centre access.
Crown and Old Town – Residential streets climbing the hill with guest houses, neighbourhood pubs, and views over the city and firth. Appeals to budget travellers and those seeking local character away from tourist bustle.
Culloden and East Inverness – Suburban areas near the historic battlefield with modern hotels, business parks, and countryside proximity. Suits drivers and history enthusiasts visiting Culloden.
Beauly and Black Isle – Scenic areas north of Inverness with dolphin-watching opportunities, rural hotels, and Highland village atmosphere. Great for those wanting countryside stays within striking distance of the city.
Greig Street Bridge and River Ness during sunset
Best Hotels in Inverness
Inverness’s hotel scene balances Highland charm with practical touring bases, from riverside Victorian villas to modern lodges and historic castle conversions. Whether you’re after Loch Ness proximity, city centre convenience, or countryside retreats, there’s a stay to suit every traveller and budget.
Best Luxury Hotels in Inverness
Rocpool Reserve Hotel (5-star) – A contemporary boutique near the riverside with bold interiors, Chez Roux restaurant, and modern Highland luxury. Perfect for couples and foodies seeking stylish sophistication.
Kingsmills Hotel (4-star) – A country house hotel on the city edge with spa, golf course, extensive grounds, and traditional Scottish hospitality. Ideal for golf lovers and spa seekers wanting space and facilities.
Culloden House Hotel (4-star) – A Georgian mansion near Culloden Battlefield with period elegance, fine dining, and historical significance as Bonnie Prince Charlie’s headquarters. Suits history enthusiasts and special occasions.
Best Riverside Hotels in Inverness
Glenmoriston Town House Hotel (4-star) – A boutique townhouse on the River Ness with contemporary interiors, riverside terrace, and central location. Appeals to couples and design lovers wanting waterside sophistication.
Royal Highland Hotel (3-star) – A Victorian railway hotel near the station with traditional charm, riverside views, and central convenience. Great for train travellers and those appreciating historic atmosphere.
Mercure Inverness Hotel (4-star) – A modern riverside hotel with indoor pool, spa facilities, and views over the Ness to the castle. Suits families and leisure travellers wanting contemporary comfort.
Best Highland Hotels near Inverness
Loch Ness Lodge (4-star) – A luxury lodge on Loch Ness shores with private beach, panoramic views, and Highland wilderness setting. Perfect for Loch Ness enthusiasts and nature lovers seeking exclusive retreat.
Bunchrew House Hotel (4-star) – A 17th-century mansion on the Beauly Firth with waterfront grounds, period charm, and peaceful location outside the city. Ideal for romantic getaways and countryside seekers.
Best City Centre Hotels in Inverness
Premier Inn Inverness Centre (3-star) – Multiple central locations with family rooms, reliable quality, and walking distance to riverside and shops. Great for families and budget-conscious travellers.
Best Western Palace Hotel & Spa (3-star) – A traditional hotel near the river with Victorian features, spa facilities, and central location. Suits leisure travellers wanting reliable comfort with character.
Hampton by Hilton Inverness City Centre (3-star) – A modern hotel near the train station with free breakfast, practical rooms, and efficient service. Perfect for business travellers and short stays.
Best Guesthouse Hotels in Inverness
Heathmount Hotel (3-star) – A Victorian villa guesthouse with period features, warm hospitality, and residential street setting. Appeals to couples and travellers wanting traditional Scottish welcome.
Moyness House (3-star) – A family-run guesthouse near the riverside with comfortable rooms, full Scottish breakfast, and friendly atmosphere. Ideal for budget travellers seeking personal touches.
Best Budget Hotels in Inverness
Travelodge Inverness (2-star) – No-frills accommodation near the High Street with compact rooms and central location. Perfect for overnight stays and travellers prioritising price.
Inverness Student Hotel (hostel) – A modern hostel with dorms, private rooms, and social spaces near the castle. Great for backpackers and solo travellers exploring the Highlands.
Bazpackers Backpackers Hostel (hostel) – A friendly central hostel with shared kitchen, common room, and budget beds. Ideal for young travellers and those meeting fellow Highland explorers.
Top Things to Do in Inverness
- Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle – Scotland’s most famous loch with ruined castle, boat cruises, and monster-hunting opportunities 20 minutes from Inverness. A must for all visitors and photographers.
- Culloden Battlefield – The 1746 Jacobite battle site with visitor centre, memorial cairn, and atmospheric moorland where Highland history changed forever. Perfect for history buffs and anyone exploring Scottish heritage.
- Inverness Castle and Viewpoint – A Victorian castle on a hilltop with public viewpoint offering panoramic city and firth views, plus shops and exhibitions. Great for photographers and orientation views.
- Caledonian Canal and Neptune’s Staircase – A 19th-century engineering marvel linking lochs with lock flights, towpath walks, and boat-watching opportunities. Appeals to walkers and industrial heritage fans.
- Dolphin Watching at Chanonry Point – Europe’s best shore-based dolphin watching on the Black Isle with bottlenose dolphins regularly appearing at high tide. Ideal for wildlife enthusiasts and families.
- Inverness Botanic Gardens – Free tropical glasshouses, cactus displays, and peaceful gardens offering indoor warmth and botanical interest. Perfect for garden lovers and rainy-day alternatives.
Urquhart Castle on the banks of the legendary Loch ness
Getting to and Around Inverness
By Train: Inverness Station connects to Edinburgh and Glasgow in 3.5 hours, Aberdeen in 2.5 hours, plus the scenic Kyle of Lochalsh and Far North lines.
By Bus: Stagecoach buses serve Inverness and surrounding areas, while Scottish Citylink coaches connect to Edinburgh, Glasgow, Fort William, and across Scotland.
By Car: Inverness sits on the A9 from Perth and Edinburgh, with the A82 heading south to Loch Ness, Fort William, and Glasgow making it a Highland touring hub.
By Air: Inverness Airport serves UK destinations with buses to the city centre in 20 minutes, making it a convenient Highland gateway.
When to Visit Inverness
Spring (April to May) – Lengthening days, blooming Highland landscapes, and warming weather make this ideal for exploring before summer crowds. Hotel prices are reasonable with excellent conditions for Loch Ness visits.
Summer (June to August) – Peak season with warmest weather, long daylight hours, and busiest attractions though Inverness never feels overcrowded. Expect highest hotel rates during school holidays and Highland games season.
Autumn (September to October) – Comfortable temperatures, golden heather, stag rutting season, and thinning crowds create atmospheric Highland conditions. Mid-range hotel prices with beautiful light for photography.
Winter (November to March) – Cold, dark months with snow-capped mountains, lowest hotel rates, and potential Northern Lights displays. Perfect for budget travellers and those embracing winter Highlands with cosy fires.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I see Loch Ness from Inverness hotels?
No, Loch Ness is 20 minutes south of Inverness by car. You’ll need to travel to the loch for visits, though some countryside hotels near Drumnadrochit offer loch views.
Do Inverness hotels arrange Loch Ness tours?
Yes, most hotels recommend or book half-day and full-day tours including Urquhart Castle, boat cruises, and visits to Loch Ness Exhibition Centre with various operators.
Are Inverness hotels good bases for Isle of Skye day trips?
Yes, though Skye is 2.5 hours away making it a long day trip. Many visitors use Inverness as a base for multi-day Highland tours including overnight Skye visits.
Do I need a car to explore from Inverness?
A car helps significantly for Loch Ness, Culloden, and Highland touring at your own pace, though organised tours from Inverness serve major attractions for non-drivers.
Can I see the Northern Lights from Inverness hotels?
Occasionally during strong aurora activity in winter months, though you’ll need dark skies away from city lights. Hotels can recommend viewing spots and aurora alert apps.
Can I book Inverness hotels through easyStay with free cancellation?
Yes, most easyStay listings include flexible cancellation. Look for “Free Cancellation” before confirming your stay.
Book Your Stay in Inverness Today
From riverside townhouses to Highland lodges, hotels in Inverness put you at the gateway to Scotland’s wild north. Whether you’re chasing Loch Ness legends, Culloden history, or simply exploring Highland majesty, there’s a perfect northern base waiting.
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