How to Spend 4 Exciting Days in Inverness, Scotland, with Kids!

This post featuring a 4-day itinerary for Inverness, Scotland, with kids may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclaimer & Disclosure Policy.

Inverness is one of the best Scottish cities to visit with kids. Nestled in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, this charming city has so much to offer families with kids of all ages—including a fascinating history, beautiful riverside walks, and huge playgrounds. We spent a month in Inverness with our daughter, discovering the city’s endless kid-friendly activities, trying local foods, and taking memorable day trips. Whether you’re chasing Nessie or soaking in the Highland views, Inverness has all the magic needed for an exciting family getaway! If you are planning to visit Inverness with kids, keep reading to get all of my tips and recommended 4-day itinerary for families.

Tips + Packing List for Inverness with Kids

Let’s talk about some important tips you’ll need to know before planning an Inverness itinerary for your family. Before traveling to Inverness with kids, you’ll want to know how to get around the city, the best time to visit, what to pack, and more. Keep reading to learn how to prepare for your upcoming family trip to Inverness with kids.

How to Get To + Around Inverness with Kids

There are three main ways to get to Inverness with kids: car, train, or plane. If you fly, book your flight to Inverness Airport (INV). Depending on your departure city, this flight will likely include a layover in London, Amsterdam, or another connector. 

Arriving by train is very straightforward, and doable from many cities in the UK. We started in London and opted to take the train (so we could see the countryside!). Trains can be booked and managed using ScotRail.

Once your family arrives in Inverness, the public bus system is relatively easy to navigate. Google Maps can help you locate bus stations and navigate bus times (please note that they are not always up to date, however). Times will also be listed at the station. Most major tourist sites will also have bussing instructions on their website. Most city buses also take contactless payments (like credit cards and Apple Pay). However, you may want cash on hand (just in case!). There is no Uber to speak of in the Highlands. 

Walking around the city is another easy form of transportation. If you have littles in tow, a stroller can be easily managed as most sidewalks are wide and relatively flat.

A Few Tips

Here are a few more tips for traveling to Inverness with kids to help you plan your itinerary:

• When’s the best time to visit Inverness with kids? Summer is ideal! I suggest heading there in June for fewer crowds and pleasant, mild weather—unless you’re aiming to catch the Highland Games. July and August are warmer and packed with festivals, but you’ll also find more tourists during those months.
• Inverness is the largest city in the Highlands, making it one of the most visited. If you want a quieter experience, Aviemore is a great nearby option that is still central and well-connected. 
• The River Ness splits the city in half. Several bridges (including pedestrian bridges) facilitate crossing it.
• Plan ahead to see the famed Highland Coos (cows). You won’t ‘just see them everywhere’. Sheep, on the other hand, are abundant. 
• Beware of those pesky midges, tiny flying insects similar to mosquitoes. They are most likely found when hiking or exploring outside the city. 
• Planning to drive? Learn the road signs and markings. Many are different from those in the US. Plus, they drive on the left (pedestrians also walk on the left!). Distances between places/cities are greater than they seem. Plan your itinerary with that in mind!
• Read this next: A Complete Family Guide to Visiting Inverness with Kids

Packing List Reminders for Inverness with Kids

In addition to what you usually pack for traveling with kids, here’s a quick packing list for Inverness:

• Layers! You’ll never know what kind of weather you’ll encounter. In August, we wore everything from sun dresses to heavy sweaters.
• Waterproof shoes. I recommend these shoes from Vessi; they offer adult and kid sizes. They help you stay dry while exploring during rainy weather.
• Raincoats. While we didn’t encounter much rain during the month of August, you’ll want them just in case (Scottish weather is notoriously unpredictable).
• Hiking shoes. If you plan to hike (and you should!), bring sturdy, waterproof hiking shoes for everyone. Consider a water-resistant backpack, too.
• Midge repellent. We didn’t need ours, but it’s one of those things that if you need it, you need it.
• Reusable water bottle.
• UK power adaptor/converter.

Looking for more tried and true travel items? Browse this locker!

Arrive + Get Settled

Arriving by plane: take a cab or train from the airport to Inverness. The train is cheaper, but it likely includes some walking to your accommodations. Alternatively, a cab is more direct and more convenient with luggage. If I remember correctly, the cab from our accommodation to the airport was about 40 pounds.

Arriving by train: you’ll be in the city center. From here, you can grab a cab or walk to your accommodations.

Where to Stay in Inverness with Kids

Before getting to my recommended Inverness itinerary with kids, let’s talk about where to stay in the city with kids. When you travel to Inverness with kids, you’ll have no shortage of options, including home rentals, Bed and Breakfasts, and hotels. Which one you choose depends on your travel style, budget, and length of stay. 

Since we stayed in Inverness for a month, we chose a cozy home rental through Vrbo. This one-bedroom, one-bath flat (with a pull-out couch) had everything we needed—a washer, a full kitchen, and even a lovely garden. The location was a perfect balance of quiet and convenience. We were in a quiet neighborhood but still within a 5 to 20-minute walk to many of the city’s top attractions and restaurants. Plus, we were just 10 minutes from a grocery store and several bus stops, making it easy to get around.

If you prefer a hotel when visiting Inverness with kids, here are some great options to consider:

• Best Western Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa
• Black Isle Bar & Rooms 
• River Ness Hotel, a Member of Radisson Individuals
• Dunskaith Villa
• Premier Inn Inverness Centre River Ness
• The Coo’s Guest House
• Black Isle Hostel (a great budget option)

Day 1 in Inverness with Kids

Alright, now that you have some tips for your upcoming family trip to Scotland, including options for places to stay, let’s talk about some of the best things to do in Inverness with kids to fill your itinerary!

Grain and Grind Inverness

Start the first day of your Inverness itinerary with kids at Grain and Grind Inverness. This was our favorite cafe in the city! In fact, we started most days here. They offer a great selection of coffee and pastries. 

My daughter loved their mini Victorian sponge cakes, while I enjoyed trying something new every time—we were never disappointed. With its bright, airy space and great kid-friendly options, Grain and Grind is a must-stop in Inverness for families.

READ NEXT: 15 Fantastic Places to Eat in Inverness with Kids

Ness Walk along the River Ness + the Ness Islands

After breakfast, kick off your first day in Inverness with a stroll along the scenic Ness Walk. It’s one of the best outdoor things for families to do in Inverness! This picturesque 3-kilometer path (just under 2 miles) winds along the River Ness, crossing over the charming Ness Islands via beautiful pedestrian bridges dating back to the 1800s. 

The walk is a mix of paved and packed dirt trails, making it easy for little ones to explore. As you wander, watch for birds, fishermen, and a quirky fallen tree that’s been transformed into a “monster”. 

You can even follow this route all the way to Inverness Crazy Golf and Whin Park. The Ness Walk is genuinely one of the city’s most stunning green spaces! Not to mention, one of the best things to do in Inverness with kids.

Whin Park

If you have littles, take the Ness Walk all the way to Whin Park, one of the largest and most fun-filled parks in Inverness! It’s a must-add to any Inverness itinerary with toddlers and young kids. Located near the end of the Ness Walk, it’s about a 30-minute stroll from the city center. Or, you can catch a bus if little legs get tired. 

This park is a kid’s dream. It has four distinct adventure play areas, including swings, slides, and climbing structures. There’s also a large green space and a pond, ideal for a picnic or a break.

Don’t miss the charming Ness Islands Railway, a mini train ride that winds along with views of the River Ness. Kids will love spotting the colorful hippos as you trek along! Finally, there is a concession stand for ice cream or refreshments on-site.

Inverness Crazy Golf 

If you have older kids or teens who want to skip the playground, head to Inverness Crazy Golf instead! Just a short walk from Whin Park and still along the Ness Walk, Inverness Crazy Golf is the perfect place to challenge your kids to some friendly competition! 

This 15-hole course gets more creative with each turn and even wraps up with a podium where you can snap a fun victory photo with a trophy. Beyond mini golf, the site also features game tables and a sandbox. 

After your round, reward the winner (and everyone else!) with ice cream from the on-site kiosk. Adding mini golf to your itinerary is an excellent choice for a relaxed and playful day in Inverness with kids!

Highland Food and Drink Trail

After your Ness Walk and playground time, head to the Highland Food and Drink Trail for a laid-back lunch along the River Ness. This food truck spot has plenty of kid-friendly options, with a mix of stationary and rotating trucks to satisfy everyone’s cravings. The casual setting and beautiful river views make it the perfect stop for a family meal, whether grabbing a quick bite or lingering over lunch.

We couldn’t get enough of Auld Smokey Pizza—some of the best pizza in town, served straight out of a Land Rover! 

Inverness Mystery Treasure Trail

After lunch, embark on the Inverness Mystery Treasure Trail! This unique, app-guided tour combines a Clue-like mystery game with fascinating insights into the city’s history. It’s a great way to get to know Inverness’s Old Town, making it one of the best things to do in Inverness!

Spanning about 2.5 miles, the trail begins near Inverness Town House and leads you through the heart of the city as you attempt to solve a mystery. You’ll collect clues while discovering some of Inverness’s most interesting buildings. The app provides engaging case notes and historical tidbits about the city along the way.

Download the app and grab the game here for under $15—it’s an affordable and entertaining way to explore Inverness on foot, perfect for families with kids aged 6 and up. 

If you prefer a more structured experience on your Inverness itinerary with kids, consider joining a family-friendly Walking Tour in Inverness City Centre (suitable for all ages).

The Castle Tavern

End your first day in Inverness with kids here! The Castle Tavern is a cozy local gem for traditional Scottish fare. In fact, we had one of our best meals there! This charming building, dating back to the mid-1700s, is steeped in history. Arriving early is a must, as it fills up quickly! Snag a table on the patio for stunning views of Inverness Castle and the River Ness if you can. 

My husband tried Scotland’s famous Cullen Skink dish (and loved every bite!), while I enjoyed the Haggis Croquettes and one of the daily specials. There is also a dedicated kids’ menu for littles. Popular with both locals and tourists, it offers a unique dining experience right in the heart of Inverness. It’s the perfect spot to end your first day in Inverness with kids!

Day 2 in Inverness with Kids

Day 2 of this itinerary for Inverness with kids features more fun things to do, including a local museum and a stunning botanical garden. Plus, more of the best places to eat in Inverness for families!

READ NEXT: A Family Guide to 2 Amazing Days in Aberdeen, Scotland, with Kids

The Bakery

Start your second day at The Bakery, a delightful family-owned spot perfect for a quick bite. Famous for their delicious sourdough bread and pastries, they also serve fantastic sandwiches for a great late breakfast or early lunch. 

Seating is limited, so grab your breakfast to go and enjoy a picnic by the River Ness.

Inverness Museum & Art Gallery

Start day two by exploring the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery, located near the historic castle grounds. As the oldest museum in the Highlands, it’s an excellent spot to dive into the area’s rich history, culture, and heritage. While it may not be huge, the museum boasts an impressive collection of around 100,000 items!

You’ll find exhibits ranging from the Picts to modern times. During our visit, we particularly enjoyed the unique Pictish stones and various artifacts uncovered by local farmers and history enthusiasts. Then, the cozy art gallery showcases works by both local and international artists. Plus, younger kids will love the Highland cow scavenger hunt to keep them engaged.

If you’re looking for fun museums and landmarks in Inverness with kids, this free museum is a fantastic way to start your day! Finally, there’s also a small café on-site for a quick snack or refreshment. Just a heads up: the museum is closed on Sundays and Mondays.

Black Isle Brewery

For lunch, head to Black Isle Brewery. Located in the city center (just a short walk from the museum), this kid-friendly restaurant serves up fantastic wood-fired pizzas. Adults can pair their pizza with one of the many house-made beers on tap. Trust me, the pizzas are a must-try!

The spacious main dining area can accommodate large groups and takes reservations. If you’re with a smaller crew, don’t miss the enchanting secret rooftop garden—a cozy spot for lunch on a nice day!

Inverness Botanic Gardens

Spend your afternoon at the Inverness Botanic Gardens. This was one of my favorite spots in the city—especially because they have carnivorous plants! With both indoor and outdoor gardens, there’s so much to explore. Inside, you’ll find a Tropical House filled with koi, a two-story garden, a Cactus House, and more. Outside, wander through various gardens showcasing produce and native plants.

Entry to the gardens is by donation, making it an affordable outing. The gardens are about a 30-minute walk from the city center, or you can catch several bus routes that get you close. Finally, there’s a small café on-site if you need a snack or something to drink. If you’re traveling to Inverness with kids, visiting the Botanic Gardens is undoubtedly one of the best things to do for your family itinerary!

The Kitchen Restaurant

End your day at The Kitchen Restaurant, hands down my favorite eatery in Inverness! Nestled along the banks of the River Ness, this independent, family-run restaurant offers an unforgettable dining experience, complete with stunning views of the river and castle. 

The venison dish is absolutely phenomenal—one of the best meals I’ve ever had while traveling! They even have a dedicated kids’ menu to keep the little ones happy. We enjoyed every bite of our meals here, and I would return in a heartbeat!

Spanning three floors, I highly recommend reserving a table on the third floor for the best views of the river and the old city—just add a note when booking.

Day 3 in Inverness with Kids: Day Trip to Loch Ness (Drumnadrochit)

Day three is a fun day trip from Inverness! Just a quick 25-minute drive from Inverness, head to the iconic Loch Ness! If you prefer not to drive, hop on the #17 bus to Drumnadrochit. Or, join a Loch Ness cruise and Urquhart Castle tour; many have options for pick-up from the city center.

Once you arrive, prepare to be amazed by some of Scotland’s most breathtaking views. Your first stop should be Urquhart Castle, dramatically perched above the loch. With over 1,000 years of history, kids will love exploring the ruins and climbing the Grant Tower for stunning panoramic views of the Highlands. You can explore the castle grounds with self-guided or audio tours. Kids will adore the activity packets designed just for them. We suggest booking tickets online beforehand, especially if you need parking. They often have sword demonstrations or other events on-site, too. 

After your castle adventure, visit the Loch Ness Centre for an interactive experience that dives into the legend of Nessie. The tour uses cutting-edge effects to bring the stories to life. You’ll hear legends of sightings, scientific investigations, and the ongoing mystery surrounding the Loch Ness Monster. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, the tour presents all the evidence (or lack thereof) to let you decide. 

When hunger strikes, go to Ness Deli in Drumnadrochit, conveniently located near the bus stop back to Inverness. Just a stone’s throw from The Loch Ness Centre and a short drive from the castle, it’s the perfect spot for breakfast or lunch (or both!). Enjoy delicious options like quiche and sandwiches to refuel. 

Feeling adventurous or want to plan something a little different for your itinerary to Inverness with kids? Book the Loch Ness 1-Hour Cruise with Urquhart Castle. 

READ NEXT: 5+ Exciting Day Trips + Weekend Getaways from Inverness with Kids

Fig & Thistle

After a full day exploring the area around Loch Ness, head back into Inverness for dinner. Fig & Thistle is a great option for night three of your Inverness itinerary with kids. 

This charming restaurant is located near the old city. It has a cozy atmosphere and incredibly welcoming staff. Fig & Thistle specializes in modern Scottish cuisine (including a dedicated kids’ menu), and everything we ate during our visit was simply delicious. I can’t recommend it enough! Reservations are recommended. 

Day 4 in Inverness with Kids

During your final day in Inverness with kids, there are a few more great stops to add to your itinerary. Keep reading to finalize your family itinerary!

The Rendezvous Cafe Inverness

Start your final day at The Rendezvous Cafe Inverness. Tucked away in the heart of the old city, this cozy spot boasts a relaxed atmosphere with a fun Hollywood flair.

We enjoyed their delicious brunch—my daughter couldn’t get enough of the Nutella pancakes! Their menu caters to every palate, offering everything from classic Scottish dishes to light salads and hearty burgers. The cafe’s rich musical history adds a special charm to the experience. Whether you’re in the mood for a full Scottish breakfast or a delicious sandwich, The Rendezvous Cafe is a fantastic place for families to enjoy a meal together.

Culloden Battlefield

Before you leave Inverness, consider adding Culloden Battlefield and Visitor Centre to your itinerary with kids. While the experience can be somber, there are plenty of engaging aspects for kids of all ages, including an activity packet available in the museum.

To get to Culloden, you can either drive—there’s a spacious parking lot on-site—or take a public bus. Located about 5 miles east of Inverness, it’s roughly a 15-minute drive or a 25-minute bus ride. 

Tickets can be reserved in advance or purchased at the door, and I recommend budgeting around 2 hours to explore both the museum and the battlefield. History buffs may want to allow extra time!

Inside the Visitor Centre: The museum offers a comprehensive look at the events leading up to the Battle of Culloden, the battle itself, and its aftermath. It presents the story of the 1745 Rising from both the Jacobite and British perspectives. If you arrive with a judgment of who was in the right, you’ll leave with a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding the uprising and its consequences. The exhibits feature an array of unique artifacts, letters, and weapons that truly bring history to life.

On the Battlefield: After your time in the museum, venture onto the battlefield itself. Color-coded flags mark the positions of various regiments, helping you follow the paths and key events of the battle. Along one side of the field, stones honor the Scottish clans that fought in this pivotal moment. The breathtaking beauty of the battlefield is striking, creating a powerful yet beautiful atmosphere that adds to the experience.

The Victorian Market

For a delightful lunch experience, head back into Inverness and visit The Victorian Market. Dating back to 1890, this charming 19th-century shopping district boasts an array of independently owned shops, offering everything from specialty foods to unique gifts and souvenirs. 

Start your visit at Market Hall, where you’ll find a vibrant atmosphere perfect for a quick bite. With various vendors to choose from—sweets, sushi, seafood, and more—you’re sure to find something to please every palate. One standout is Bad Girl Bakery & Cafe, where we savored delicious sandwiches and savory treats. The central seating area allows families to enjoy their meals together in a relaxed setting, showcasing the best of Highland food producers. 

After lunch, wander through the market’s shops, soaking in the rich history and local flavor!

Round Out Your Exploration of Inverness with Kids

If you still have time after lunch, there are a few more stops in Inverness that are worth adding to your itinerary with kids. All of them are within a short walk of The Victorian Market (and the train station, if you are departing that way).

• Young’s Auld Sweetie Shop for nostalgic treats from an enchanting sweets shop (located in the city center). Watch for the rhubarb and cream hard candies – these were my favorite!
• Leaky’s Bookshop is Scotland’s largest secondhand bookshop – and it’s a must-stop for book lovers! The shop has been family-owned and operated since 1979. The bookstore has two floors and is filled to the brim with books of all types and genres. 
• Abertarff House is the oldest, still-standing residential house in Inverness. It was built in 1593. To put it into perspective, the house witnessed both Jacobite risings and both world wars! The house is free to enter. 
• Miele’s Gelateria Inverness is an excellent ice cream or treat option while walking around Inverness with kids. It is located near Leaky’s Bookshop.

Read more about our experience and recommendations by reading our Exciting 2- to 3- Day Itinerary for the Isle of Skye with Kids

EscoBar – Taqueria & Cocktails

If you have time for one last meal in Inverness, make your way to EscoBar – Taqueria & Cocktails. This laid-back spot serves up delicious Tex-Mex cuisine. If you’re traveling with kids and craving a break from typical travel food, this is the perfect place to satisfy those familiar tastes—while it may not be exactly like your favorite Mexican restaurants in the U.S., it’s definitely close! They even have a dedicated kids’ menu.

Enjoy Inverness with Kids

Ready to visit Inverness with kids? I hope that you are! This kid-friendly Inverness itinerary includes everything I think you need to know about enjoying this fantastic city together. In fact, I’ve included all of our favorite things to do in Inverness with kids, including family-friendly restaurants and places to stay. I hope that you have the best time exploring Inverness with your kids!

Unless otherwise noted, all images within this article were taken by and belong to the blog’s author, Antonia Grant. A reminder that this post may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclaimer & Disclosure Policy for more information.