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Trains to Inverness

      Perfect if you're planning a highland fling

      Mountains and glens, rivers and lakes… Inverness is the capital of the Highlands, and it’s a perfect place to unplug from modern life.

      LNER operate the Highland Chieftain, a daily train service to London King's Cross via Stirling, Edinburgh, Newcastle and York. From there, we offer regular connections to other destinations across Scotland and England, including Glasgow, Aberdeen, Leeds, and Hull.

      Plus, when you join LNER Perks you'll get £5 free and 2% credit back every time you travel with us.

      • Population

        46,870

      • Fact About Inverness

        Loch Ness is the UK's largest lake by water volume, with almost double the water of all the lakes in England and Wales put together

      These percentages were calculated using our Carbon Calculator.

      Things to do in Inverness

      The Highlands are known for their rugged mountains and stunning lochs, but the ‘Highlands’ capital’ Inverness also provides culture, fine dining and the chance for some retail therapy.

      • Nessie-spotting

        Whether you’re a believer or a sceptic, you’ll know all about the Loch Ness Monster. And Inverness is where she lives, or so goes the folk tale. People get on the train to Inverness from all over the world to catch a glimpse of the mythical monster.

        Loch Ness
      • A wee dram

        Inverness is close to some of Scotland’s finest whisky distilleries. Glen Ord, to the west of the city, is one of the oldest. Years of know-how have gone into creating its famous single malt. Take a tour to watch the master distillers at work.

        Glen Ord
      • Hidden Inverness

        Get your fill of local history at the Highland Archive Centre. Explore the records to see how Highland life and folk have changed over the decades. It’s right next door to Whin Park and the River Ness, too.

        Highland Archive Centre

      Things to do at Loch Ness

      Immerse yourself in the legend of the Loch Ness Monster with a tour or a boat trip, or visit the ruin of Urquhart castle near the water's edge.

      Whether you're a history buff, a monster hunter or there to enjoy the scenery, we've selected a handful of experiences to help you to get the most out of your time at Loch Ness.

      • m_d_loch-ness-by-jacobite

        Loch Ness By Jacobite Boat Tour

        • Cost: From £18.00

        • Suitable for: All ages

        • Location: Doch Garrock Canal Lock

        • How to get there: Via City sight seeing bus, Local bus from Inverness Bus station or Taxi

        Nessie hunting cannot be any easier than sailing the waves of Loch Ness on a cruise with Jacobite. Different cruise lengths available.

        Loch Ness By Jacobite Boat Tour
      • m_d_urquhart-castle-loch-ness-inverness

        Urquhart Castle

        • Cost: From £7.70

        • Suitable for: All ages

        • Location: Drumnadrochit, Loch Ness

        • How to get there: City Link bus from Inverness bus station, journey takes approx. 40 minutes

        The magnificently situated Urquhart Castle, on the shore of Loch Ness, has seen some of the most dramatic chapters in our nation’s story.

        Urquhart Castle
      • m_d_loch-ness-360

        Loch Ness 360

        • Cost: FREE

        • Suitable for: All ages

        • Location: A circular 360 walking/cycling route around Loch Ness

        • How to get there: The route starts from Inverness Castle a 5 minute walk from the train station.

        The Loch Ness 360° Trail is an epic walking, cycling, running and outdoor activity trail in the Scottish Highlands. The trail loops the entire circumference of Loch Ness. You can start and finish in the Highland Capital of Inverness, or join the trail at any point of your choice.

        Loch Ness 360

      Budget friendly things to do in Inverness

      If you're looking for a day out on the cheap then Inverness has plenty to offer. Art, history and literature all await you, set in beautiful highland surroundings. We've selected some of the best experiences in Inverness that won't hit you with an entry fee.

      • m_d_ness-islands-inverness

        Ness Islands

        • Cost: FREE

        • Suitable for: All ages

        • Location: River Ness

        • How to get there: An enjoyable 10 minute stroll to the Ness islands from the train station

        The Ness islands are a collection of natural islands that sit in the middle of the River Ness, connected from the river banks and throughout by beautiful Victorian footbridges. Just a short stroll away from Inverness city centre it is a place of natural beauty to take a breath, get some exercise or just watch the world go by.

        Ness Islands
      • m_d_leakeys-bookshop-inverness

        Leakeys Bookshop

        • Cost: FREE entry

        • Suitable for: All ages

        • Location: Church Street, Inverness

        • How to get there: 5 minute walk from Inverness Train station

        Scotland's largest secondhand bookshop. Complete with open log fire and just about any book you could think of.

        Leakeys Bookshop
      • m_d_inverness-museum-and-art-gallery

        Inverness Museum and Art Gallery

        • Cost: FREE

        • Suitable for: All ages

        • Location: High street, Inverness

        • How to get there: 5 minute walk from Inverness train station

        Discover more about the unique history and culture of the city of Inverness and the Scottish Highlands at Inverness Museum and Art Gallery. Explore our fascinating range of artefacts and collections that celebrate Highland life and heritage.

        Inverness Museum and Art Gallery

      Tours in Inverness

      Unlock the secrets of a highland gem.

      Relax as you tour the streets of Inverness on an open-topped bus, or experience all that the city has to offer on a guided walk.

      There's a lot to see in and around Inverness. Whether you're interested in culture, architecture, distilleries or just taking in the city sights, here are our recommended ways to take a tour.

      • m_d_city-sightseeing-inverness

        City Sight Seeing Bus

        • Cost: From £10

        • Suitable for: All ages

        • Location: Inverness Bus station

        • How to get there: There are various collection points but the main stop is at the Bus stop a 2 minute walk from the train station in the centre of the city.

        Hop on and off to explore Inverness on the city’s sight seeing open top bus! Two routes take you to various popular attractions around the city with just one ticket!

        City Sight Seeing Bus
      • m_d_happy-tours-inverness

        Happy Tours

        • Cost: Various

        • Suitable for: All ages

        • Location: City centre

        • How to get there: Collection by private mini bus

        No transport and want to discover the wider area? Take a trip with Happy Tours and you can see everything from Loch Ness to distilleries and more!

        Happy Tours
      • m_d_walk-inverness

        Walk Inverness

        • Cost: £12.50

        • Suitable for: All ages

        • Location: Inverness City Centre – meeting point Visitor Centre on High Street

        • How to get there: Just a short 5 minute walk from the Train station to the meeting point

        The 90 minute guided walk, will allow you to take in our history, architecture, monuments and spectacular scenery whilst learning more about the people and wildlife that inhabit Inverness.

        Walk Inverness

      Where to eat in Inverness

      Inverness stands ready to cater for anyone's taste, with locally sourced highland dishes or globe-trotting posh nosh.

      Whether you're splashing out or feeling frugal, you'll find somewhere to suit your needs when it comes to meal times in the highland capital.

      • m_d_mustard-seed-inverness

        An intimate dinner

        Pull out their chair as the two of you sit down for a romantic dinner in Inverness at Mustard Seed. Set in a converted church on the bank of the River Ness, the atmosphere will ensure the sparks are flying. The chef's at Mustard Seed have a close relationship with local suppliers, meaning their menus change regularly, offering the freshest of meals that reflect the season.

        Mustard Seed
      • m_Lettuce eat inverness

        A light lunch

        Forget about posh nosh – simple sandwiches are done good at Lettuce Eat in Lombard Street. Locals and TripAdvisor types rave about it and there’s no wonder. Rolls and baguettes are piled to the point of collapse with hearty fillings. We love the coronation chicken – just ask for a few napkins.

        Lettuce Eat
      • m_Aspendos inverness

        Aspendos

        Smouldering charcoal grills, mellow Mediterranean flavours, plus a rainbow of tapas dishes. Beat the granite-city blues with proper holiday food at Aspendos. We love the vegetarian Brokoli Yahsini, featuring broccoli, grapes, cheese and sun-dried tomatoes.

        Aspendos

      Budget friendly places to eat in Inverness

      Spending time in breathtaking countryside or touring around the city centre is bound to work up an appetite. Where should you go when you want to fill your stomach without emptying your savings?

      • m_d_black-isle-brewery-inverness

        Black Isle Bar

        • Location: Church Street, Inverness

        • How to get there: 5 minute walk from train station

        A range of freshly made pizza is available from their own wood-fired Pizza oven made with organic produce from farms at the Brewery and other local suppliers.

        Black Isle Bar
      • m_d_macgregors-pub-inverness

        Macgregors

        • Suitable for: Local produce and great local beverages

        • Location: Church Street, Inverness

        • How to get there: 5 minute walk from Inverness station

        MacGregor's Bar Inverness; Scotland's modern-day bar, is the place for an adventure in taste, in culture and music. It's a gathering place to share stories, life and laughter, whilst savouring some of the best food and drink produced in Scotland.

        Macgregors
      • m_d_zizzi-inverness

        Zizzi Pizzeria

        • Suitable for: Everyone!

        • Location: Bank Street, Inverness

        • How to get there: 5-10 minute walk from train station

        Zizzi Inverness is truly one of the most stunning restaurants we have. One elevation is all glazed floor to ceiling - giving diners a truly amazing view of the river.

        Zizzi Pizzeria

      Instagrammable places to eat in Inverness

      Have your camera at the ready from the moment you step off the train - the chance for snaps both sweet and savoury, as well as the essential artisan café are waiting for you within walking distance of the platform.

      • m_d_perk-inverness

        Perk Doughnuts

        • Suitable for: Coffee

        • Location: Church Street, Inverness

        • How to get there: 5 minute walk from train station

        Specialising in quality Artisan Coffee & delicious Handmade Doughnuts, they also serve a range of Breakfast and Lunch Takeaway Options with vegan options available too.

        Perk Doughnuts
      • m_d_coyote-coffee-inverness

        Coyotes

        • Suitable for: A great burger!

        • Location: Academy street, Inverness

        • How to get there: opposite the Inverness train station

        Popular family run business serving the highest quality burgers & sides, delicious coffees and desserts to die for!

        Coyotes
      • m_d_mieles-gelato-inverness

        Mieles Gelateria

        • Suitable for: Ice cream lovers

        • Location: Church Street, Inverness

        • How to get there: 5 minute walk from train station

        Miele's Gelateria is an exciting Gelato (ice cream) parlour in the heart of Inverness. 

        They have around 24 exciting flavours of Gelato in their display cabinet for you to choose from at any one time. They also have an Italian deli lunch range and speciality Italian biscuits.

        Mieles Gelateria

      Luxury places to eat in Inverness

      The finest food and service with a smile can add a little sparkle to any trip, and Inverness certainly has both of those to offer. We've assembled a few recommendations for restaurants where you can truly spoil yourself.

      • m_d_torrish-inverness

        Torrish

        • Suitable for: Fine dining experience

        • Location: River Ness, Inverness

        • How to get there: 20 minute walk from train station or 10 minutes in a taxi

        Torrish serves delicious breakfasts, afternoon teas, à la carte dinners alongside a diverse range of drinks and beverages.

        Torrish
      • m_d_river-house-inverness

        River House

        • Suitable for: Locally sourced fish restaurant

        • Location: Huntly Street, Inverness

        • How to get there: 10 minute walk from the train station

        Here at River House we are dedicated to sourcing and using only the finest seasonal and sustainable produce from around the Highlands and Islands of Scotland.

        River House
      • m_d_mustard-seed-inverness

        Mustard Seed

        • Suitable for: Quality Highland food

        • Location: Bank street, Inverness

        • How to get there: 5 minute walk from train station

        The Mustard Seed is a local, independently owned restaurant in the heart of Inverness, offering a warm welcome and friendly service.

        Mustard Seed

      Shopping in Inverness

      Discover top Inverness shopping, from big brand stores to independent retailers.

      • High-street heaven

        Take a wander around Eastgate Shopping Centre and you'll find all the usual high-street faves, including Debenhams, Boots, Topshop and Monsoon. There's also a range of events and activities that take place across the year.

        Eastgate Shopping Centre
      • Vintage shops, one-off boutiques and homewares

        Inverness’s stunning old town is packed with quirky shops, as is the Victorian Market, which has a range of specialist spots including jewellers, a sweet shop and a butchers.

        Victorian Market
      • Label lovers – designer shopping

        Cool kids will find Diesel jeans, Barbour wax jackets and iconic Stussy T-shirts at Attic. Plus pick up a North Face jackets, perfect for looking the part on Highland walks. Find it in Eastgate shopping centre.

        Attic

      Budget-friendly hotels in Inverness

      When you're planning some time away, you might prefer to save some cash for the myriad activities you can do during waking hours, especially as there are plenty of places that will put you up without asking for a small fortune. We've selected a small bunch of budget friendly options that will keep you cosy when it's time for a wee kip.

      • m_d_bazpackers-inverness

        Bazpackers hostel

        • Cost: From £26

        • Suitable for: Budget Accommodation

        • Location: 4 Culduthel Road, Inverness

        • How to get there: 10 minute walk from the train station

        Providing high quality accommodation with strong standards as well as a professional and friendly service.

        Bazpackers hostel
      • m_d_travelodge-city-centre-inverness

        Travelodge – Inverness City Centre

        • Cost: From £50

        • Suitable for: Budget Accommodation

        • Location: Academy Street, Inverness

        • How to get there: 2 minute walk from train station

        Budget friendly accommodation in the centre of the city, convenient with everything on your doorstep.

        Travelodge – Inverness City Centre
      • m_d_premier-inn-river-ness

        Premier Inn - Riverside

        • Cost: From £39

        • Suitable for: Budget Accommodation

        • Location: Huntly Street

        • How to get there: 10 Minute walk from train station

        Convenient city centre and riverside location, perfect for exploring everything Inverness has to offer.

        Premier Inn - Riverside

      Instagrammable hotels in Inverness

      There's nothing quite like showing off holiday snaps to family and friends, especially when you're treating yourself to something unique. We've found a couple of options that will fill up your gallery in no time.

      • m_d_highland-lassie-inverness

        Highland Lassie

        • Cost: £200

        • Suitable for: Visitors with sea legs!

        • Location: Caledonian Canal

        • How to get there: 20 minute Taxi from train station or 20 minutes on bus from central bus station

        Highland Lassie is a floating hotel berthed just outside the Highland capital of Inverness on the beautiful Caledonian Canal. Surrounded by charming Scottish countryside, it’s within easy reach of some of the Highland’s most famous sights and landmarks.

        Highland Lassie
      • m_d_inverness-glamping

        Inverness Glamping

        • Cost: £125

        • Suitable for: Glamping in style!

        • Location: Ardtower Road, Inverness

        • How to get there: 20 minutes in a taxi from the train station

        Modern and unique glamping experience in Inverness.

        Inverness Glamping

      What's on

      • Nothing Beats Musical Routes

        National Rail has partnered with renowned British DJ and broadcaster, Jo Whiley, to ignite a passion for exploring the roots of British music through train travel. Embark on a journey with the Window Seater app with a variety of short audio guides narrating the vibrant tales of Britain's musical landscapes, both past and present.

        Nothing Beats Musical Routes
      • Nothing Beats Sporting Routes

        National Rail have teamed up with British sports presenter, Kirsty Gallacher to create a new audio series to inspire your next train trip to some of Britain’s fantastic sporting locations. The eight-episode series features exclusive interviews from British sporting heroes and brings to life the origins of Britain’s most popular sports. When it comes to sport, nothing beats being there.​

        Nothing Beats Sporting Routes​

      How to save on LNER train tickets

      • Cheap tickets

        We know you can't always plan ahead but, if you can, booking your travel in advance can save you a lot of money. In fact, booking at least 4 weeks ahead of your travel date can save you an average of up to 47%* on on-the-day train ticket prices!

        Book cheap train tickets
      • Join LNER Perks

        Did you know that if you join our loyalty scheme, you can save money on every trip you take with LNER? Yep, that's right. LNER Perks members get £5 credit free on their account to spend on travel as a thank you for signing up. AND all members earn 2% credit back on every single journey. Not bad, eh?

        Join LNER Perks now
      • Save 1/3 with a Railcard

        Looking for travel deals? Enjoy cheap train fares and save up to 1/3 on train ticket prices with a range of Railcards.

        From Two Together Railcards, Senior Railcards, and many more, there are Railcard discounts to be had for all!

        Railcards

      *Saving average based on all Standard Advance tickets bought on the LNER website and App at least four weeks before you travel vs buying any Standard ticket on the day you travel.

      Which rail lines go through Inverness?

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