Inverness Landmarks and Monuments

(Inverness, Scotland, UK)



Picture of the city and the River NessInverness is a very old city and has a handful of interesting landmarks to back up its heritage. On the eastern bank of the Ness River, the city centre is where most of the historic sights are clustered, including the Old Mercat Cross. Adding to this architectural bounty are a couple of impressive old homes and churches, such as Abertarff House, and on the opposite riverside, St. Andrew's Cathedral, near to the Eden Court Theatre.

An iconic Scottish landmark, Inverness Castle sits sentinel on top of a hill above the city centre. Its Baronial turrets are a beautiful reminder of the power this city once held over the Scottish Highlands. Nature is also a big component of the city with lots of inspiring spots to explore, while there are a number of striking castles dotting the countryside, just outside of the city and open to members of the general public.


Inverness Castle photograph

Inverness Castle

Address: 41 Castle Street, Inverness, Scotland, UK
Tel: +44 01463 230 925
King David I built the first Inverness Castle on this site in 1141, but the fortress has been destroyed and rebuilt several times since. The current pink-hued sandstone castle was constructed in the 19th century by the Victorians, to replace the previous medieval structure destroyed in the mid-18th century by the Jacobites. Today the building is home to the Sheriff's Court. Whilst you can't actually go inside the castle, the landscaped grounds are open to the public.
Open hours: grounds only, daily - 24 hours
Admission: free

Tomnahurich Hill / Hill of the Fairies

Address: Inverness, Scotland, UK
Right along the western side of the Ness River is an ancient wooded hill called Tomnahurich (Hill of the Yews), or 'Hill of the Fairies' as it is often known. This certainly is a magical place and one of the best spots in Inverness to take a country walk. Today, the hill is a cemetery with dozens of interesting old headstones. The panoramic views from the top of the hill are spectacular and this walk can easily be combined with the neighbouring Ness Islands for an all-day outdoor nature adventure.
Open hours: daily - 24 hours
Admission: free

St. Andrew's Cathedral image

St. Andrew's Cathedral

Address: 15 Ardross Street, Inverness, Scotland, UK
Tel: +44 01463 225 553
Inverness has some lovely churches, but the city's imposing cathedral takes the cake. This striking religious landmark is a classic example of Victorian architecture with ornate decorations inside and out, and its impressive sandstone towers dominate the riverside. As the northernmost diocese of the Scottish Episcopal Church, St. Andrew's Cathedral still holds weekly services. However, it is fair to say that most visitors simply come to admire the design and rare features, such as the collection of icons from Russia. Close by you will find the Northern Meeting Park, the Eden Court Theatre and the Ness Bridge.
Open hours: daily - 09:30 to 18:00
Admission: free

Abertarff House picture

Abertarff House

Address: Church Street, Inverness, Scotland, UK
In the downtown core are some wonderful historic buildings that were essential features in the city's past. Abertarff House dates back to the latter part of the 16th century and is currently home to the Commun Gaidhealach, a Highlands group dedicated to the preservation of the Gaelic culture and language. The house now functions as the headquarters for Scotland's National Trust and is not open to the public. Nearby is the Old Mercat Cross, which contains the Stone of the Tubs, where early regional kings were once crowned.
Open hours: daily - view from exterior only
Admission: free

Old High Church photo

Old High Church

Address: Church Street, Inverness, Scotland, UK
Tel: +44 01463 250 802
This is the oldest church in Inverness and a real beauty if you are a fan of religious architecture. The Old High Church is also a living breathing church with regular Presbyterian services throughout the week. The details of the interior, such as the elevated pulpit, are wonderful. You can take a guided historic tour of the church every Friday at 11:30, from June to August, or just come here to soak in the ambience.
Open hours: daily - hours vary according to season
Admission: free