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Inverness, Scotland, is an incredible city to travel to with kids! Not only is it the gateway to the Scottish Highlands, but Inverness is also the largest city in the Highlands. The city is probably best known for the Battle of Culloden, where the British government defeated the Jacobite army and thus ended their uprising in 1746. If you know this, you’re either a huge history buff – or an Outlander fan (or both!). Today, Inverness is beloved for its historic castle and churches (you can see steeples from almost every direction), River Ness, and excellent food scene.
In August 2023, we spent a month exploring Inverness as a family. We found the city to be very charming and walkable. During our visit, we enjoyed many of the best things to do in Inverness with kids (which are all included in this article!), eating regional foods, and creating new memories together. We also took several day trips and weekend getaways from Inverness with kids, including Aviemore and the Isle of Sky.
This article is a compilation of my extensive tips for visiting Inverness with kids – it is truly a complete family guide! Keep reading to discover what to do in Inverness, Scotland, as well as tips for visiting, where to eat, where to stay, and more.
Tips + Packing List for Inverness with Kids
Before we dive into things to do in Inverness with kids, and a few day trips and weekend getaways from the city, let’s talk about some important tips. Before you travel to Inverness with kids, you should know a few things about getting around the city, the best time to visit, and what to pack. Keep reading to learn more about how to prepare for your upcoming family trip to Inverness.
READ NEXT: 5+ Exciting Day Trips + Weekend Getaways from Inverness with Kids
How to Get To + Around Inverness with Kids
When traveling to Inverness with kids, there are three main ways to get to the city: by car, train, or plane. If you fly, book your flight to Inverness Airport (INV). This flight will likely include a layover in London, Amsterdam, or another major connector. You can take a cab or train from the airport to the city center. The train is cheaper, but it likely includes walking to your accommodations. Meanwhile, a cab is more direct, and likely more convenient with luggage.
Arriving by train is very straightforward, and doable from most cities in the UK, depending on where your journey begins. 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 you’re 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). Times will also be listed at the station. Most major tourist sites will also have bussing instructions on their website. 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:
- When is the best time for you to visit Inverness with kids? Summer is generally the best season. I recommend going in June (unless you want to see the Highland Games). June offers lower tourism and moderately warm weather, while July and August boast warmer weather, many festivals, and more tourists.
- Inverness is the largest city in the Highlands, which makes it one of the most visited. If you want a quieter experience, Aviemore may be a great nearby option.
- The River Ness splits the city in half, though many bridges (including pedestrian bridges) will aid in crossing it.
- Plan ahead if you hope to see the famed Highland Coos (cows). You won’t ‘just see them everywhere’. Sheep, on the other hand, are abundant. There are a few farms near Inverness where you can see them.
- Beware of pesky midges, tiny flying insects similar to mosquitoes. They are annoying, but they are more likely to be found when you are hiking or exploring outside of the city.
- Places are further apart than you might think; plan accordingly when creating your itinerary!
- If you’re 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!).
- Most city buses take contactless payments like credit cards and Apple Pay (though you may want to have cash on hand, just in case). There is no Uber to speak of (except for Edinburgh and Glasgow).
- It’s okay to TAKE YOUR TIME and not see it all. Focus on what matters most to you and take it slow so that you can enjoy it.
- Read this article next to package all the best things to do and eat into one itinerary: How to Spend 4 Exciting Days in Inverness, Scotland, 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. We wore everything from sun dresses to heavy sweaters during our month in Inverness.
- Waterproof shoes. I recommend these shoes from Vessi; they offer adult and kid sizes. They are helpful for staying dry while exploring during rainy weather.
- Raincoats. While we didn’t encounter a lot of 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.
Click Here to Discover More of Our Go-To Travel Items
READ NEXT: An Honest Review of Vessi Waterproof Shoes for Adults and Kids (by a Travel Mom)
15 Fun Things to Do In Inverness with Kids
Okay, ready to learn about the best things to do in Inverness with kids? After spending a month in Inverness with my daughter, these are the activities and attractions that I recommend for families. From scenic walks along River Ness and massive playgrounds to historic museums and landmarks, add these places to your Inverness itinerary with kids.
READ NEXT: A Family Guide to 3 Outstanding Days in Paris with Tweens
Ness Walk along the River Ness + the Ness Islands
The Ness Walk along the River Ness is arguably one of the best outdoor things for families to do in Inverness. This beautiful (paved + packed dirt) path is about 3 kilometers, or just under 2 miles. It winds along the River Ness and across the small collection of islands in the river (the Ness Islands). You can even take this route to Whin Park from the city center!
Once you get off the sidewalk and into the park area, you can soak in beautiful views of the River Ness and the islands dotting the shore. The pedestrian bridges that take you to the islands were built in the 1800s – and they are stunning! Then, keep an eye out for the fallen tree, turned monster. Kids will delight in climbing on it for a bit! You will likely also encounter birds, people fishing, beautiful flowers, and more. The Ness Walk is one of the most stunning urban green spaces I’ve ever seen.
Whin Park
One of the largest parks in Inverness, Whin Park is a must with young kids! Located near the end of the Ness Walk, Whin Park is about a 30-minute walk from the city center (alternatively, several bus routes can get you pretty close). There is also a small parking lot on-site.
On the grounds, there is a massive playground that will surely delight your kids. Featuring swings, multiple play areas, slides, and more, Whin Park offers endless opportunities to play. In fact, there are four distinct adventure play areas. Near the playground, there is also a large green space and pond. The many picnic tables are also ideal for a snack or picnic lunch.
Then, the charming Ness Islands Railway is also located within Whin Park. A trail near the playground leads to this small train. Families can enjoy views of the park and River Ness as the train winds around a small track. Keep an eye out for the colorful hippos!
Finally, as one of the best things to do in Inverness with kids, there is also a small concession stand with ice cream and refreshments available on-site.
Bellfield Park
If you’re wondering what outdoor activities to do with kids in Inverness, Scotland, add Bellfield Park to your family itinerary! The park is about a five to ten-minute walk from the Inverness city center (most of the walk is along the River Ness). It hosts a fantastic playground, a small pool, tennis courts, a bandstand, gardens, and more.
Bellfield Park is a great place to play together if you’re looking for low-key days outside. Or, you can let kids play and explore while you read on a nearby bench. There is playground equipment for all ages, from toddlers to tweens. Finally, it’s pretty close to Uilebheist Distillery & Brewery if you want to pop in for a pint afterward!
Inverness Crazy Golf
Located near Whin Park, Inverness Crazy Golf is a great spot to challenge your kids to a little friendly competition! The course is 15 holes, each even more creative than the last. Plus, it ends with a podium, where you can take a picture with a trophy!
In addition to mini golf, some other game tables and a sandbox are on site. Afterward, you can celebrate the winner with ice cream from the on-site kiosk! If you’ve been wondering what to do for a low-key day in Inverness, Scotland, mini golf is the answer!
Leaky’s Bookshop
Leaky’s Bookshop is Scotland’s largest secondhand bookshop! It’s been family-owned and operated since 1979, and it is a delight to meander through. The bookstore has two floors and is FILLED with books of all types and genres. If you and your kids love to read, this is the place to be (not to mention one of the best things to do in Inverness!). You can easily pop in for a minute or two or explore the shelves for hours by inspecting the vast collections.
Inverness Museum & Art Gallery
Interested in learning more about local history? Inverness Museum and Art Gallery is located near the city’s historic castle grounds. As the oldest museum in the Highlands, it’s a great place to learn about the area’s history, culture, and heritage. While not huge by any means, there are approximately 100,000 in the museum’s collection!
Exhibits cover everything from the Picts to modern times. We loved seeing the unique Pictish stones and other artifacts. Many of the artifacts have been found by local farmers and history enthusiasts. Then, the cozy art museum features several pieces by local and international artists. There is also a cute Highland cow scavenger hunt for younger kids to keep them entertained.
Finally, a small cafe is also on-site for a quick snack or refreshment. If you’re looking for fun museums and landmarks in Inverness with kids, this free museum is a great way to spend an afternoon together! Please note the museum is closed on Sundays and Mondays.
Culloden Battlefield + Visitor Centre
When traveling to Inverness with kids, learning about local history is an important part of visiting the area. While visiting the Culloden Battlefield and Visitor Centre is a somber experience, there are aspects of it that kids will be able to appreciate and participate in (including an activity packet in the museum).
Inside the Visitor Centre, the museum exhibits chronicle the events leading up to the Battle of Culloden, the battle itself, and the aftermath. The story of the 1745 Rising is told from the perspectives of both the Jacobites and the British Government. If you thought there was a “right side” going into the museum, you will leave knowing just how complicated the uprising and battles actually were. It is a complex history that the museum handles with thoughtful grace. There are several unique artifacts, letters, and weapons on display, as well.
On the battlefield, color-coded flags mark the different regiment arrangements. You are free to wander the paths. To one side of the field, stones mark the Scottish Clans who fought in the battle. During our visit, I was really struck by how beautiful the battlefield has become. It is somber, but its beauty is undeniable.
Tickets can be reserved in advance or purchased at the door. To reach Culloden Battlefield and Visitor Centre, you can either drive (there is a large, on-site car park) or take a public bus. Culloden is about 5 miles east of Inverness. Finally, give yourself about 2 hours to explore the museum exhibits and battlefield, more if you are a history buff. Indeed, if you are interested in learning about local history, then the Culloden Battlefield and Visitor Centre is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Inverness with kids.
Abertarff House
Built in 1593, Abertarff House is the oldest, still-standing residential house in Inverness. To put it into perspective, the house witnessed both Jacobite risings and both world wars! Outlander fans will enjoy knowing that it was briefly owned by the Fraser of Lovat family. If you are looking for unique museums and landmarks in Inverness, add this one to your list.
The house is free to enter. Currently, there are two downstairs rooms that are open to the public. Both use informational plaques to share a bit about the history of Inverness in the 17th century. Knowledgeable staff members are also on hand to answer questions.
Inverness Mystery Treasure Trail
If you are looking for unique things to do in Inverness for families, embarking on the Inverness Mystery Treasure Trail is a fun way to see the city! This app-guided tour of Inverness takes you around the city, pairing a Clue-like mystery game with Inverness history and facts.
This Trail is approximately 2.5 miles long and starts near the Inverness Town House. Along the way, you will attempt to solve the case while discovering many of the city’s most interesting buildings in the center. The experience starts with case notes and leads you along a set path as you try to collect all the clues and solve the mystery. Throughout, the app also highlights interesting tidbits about Inverness and the city’s history.
Finally, you can grab the game here and download the app to play. Less than $15.00, this is a really inexpensive and entertaining way to enjoy a walking tour of Inverness with your kids (best with those 6+).
If you would prefer a more structured walking tour with a guide, try this family-friendly Walking Tour in Inverness City Centre (open to all ages).
Inverness Botanic Gardens
The Inverness Botanic Gardens was one of my favorite spots in the city—mostly because they had carnivorous plants! With both indoor and outdoor gardens, there is so much to explore here! Inside, there is a Tropical House that features koi fish, a two-story garden, a Cactus House, and more. Then, outside, you can meander through several other gardens featuring produce and native plants.
Plus, a small cafe is on-site if you need lunch or a snack. Entry to the gardens is by donation, which is encouraged. It’s about a 30-minute walk from the city center. Several bus routes can get you pretty close. Indeed, if you are traveling to Inverness with kids, this is definitely one of the best things to do with all ages!
Attend a Highland Games
If you visit Inverness or the Highlands during July or August, attending one of the many Highland Games ranks highly amongst the best things to do with kids! We intentionally planned our time in Inverness to coincide with the Clan Grant Gathering and Abernethy Highland Games. Since Grant is our surname, it was the Highland Games that most interested us, but there are many to choose from!
Highland Games are very similar to county fairs in the U.S. – but with the added enjoyment of kilts, bagpipes, Highland Dancing, and traditional Highland sports. When we arrived at the Abernethy Highland Games, there were several foot races that young kids could take part in (which my daughter did). Afterward, we grabbed lunch at one of the many food trucks. Then, we met with the Clan Grant Society members at their dedicated tent. I had connected with them on Instagram beforehand, and it was very fun to meet them in person. As visiting Grants, they invited us to walk in the opening parade with them. It was an incredibly powerful moment for our family! Afterward, we even met the Clan Chieftain!
After the parade, we strolled through the many craft stalls surrounding the field, ate more food (like venison burgers!), and watched our daughter try some of the fair games. Throughout the day, there were also traditional Highland sports competitions, like the caber toss, bagpiping competitions, and Highland dance competitions. The atmosphere was vibrant, family-friendly, and very festive. It’s an experience I would recommend to anyone visiting the Highlands!
Attend a Caledonia F.C. Match
If you are visiting in August or during the football/soccer season, attending a Caledonia F.C. Match is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Inverness with kids! We purchased tickets in advance (over the phone), but you can buy them at the gate, too. While you pay for specific seats, the seating is somewhat arbitrary. It feels more like stadium seating at a big high school football game in the U.S. Attending the match was a highlight for my husband – and, overall, a very unique experience.
There isn’t a timer or scoreboard while watching the game, so when everyone gets up, it’s half-time. During this time, bathrooms and concessions are available. In the concessions, you can get everything from sausage rolls and steak and ale pie to crisps (chips).
Social commentary throughout the game can be somewhat…colorful. While I still think this is a family-friendly experience, you’ll want to note that some expressions that are forbidden (or at least considered very low-brow) in public in the U.S. may not be as much in the UK. Local fans care a lot about their team!
To reach the stadium, you can walk, take the bus, or drive. The walk is about 45 minutes from the city center. Buses can get packed on game days, so we didn’t mind the walk. There are signs pointing toward the stadium, and it’s a pretty easy walk overall. If you have a car, there is a car park and nearby street parking.
The Victorian Market
Located in the heart of the old city, The Victorian Market is one of the most historic landmarks in Inverness. In fact, the building dates back to 1890. This 19th-century shopping district is filled with charming independently-owned shops (offering everything from specialty foods to gifts and souvenirs), as well as cafes and eateries. After peeking through the shops, be sure to grab lunch!
Market Hall (a food hall) in The Victorian Market was recently renovated and offers a vibrant environment for a quick bite to eat. There are several vendors to choose from, including sweets, sushi, seafood, and more. We loved the sandwiches from Bad Girl Bakery & Cafe.
Young’s Auld Sweetie Shop
Those in the mood for some nostalgic treats need to add Young’s Auld Sweetie Shop to their itinerary! This enchanting sweets shop is located in the city center and features some of the best chocolates, candies, and treats around.
Kids, and kids at heart, will adore browsing the massive, wall-to-wall collection of sweets. Keep an eye out for the rhubarb and cream hard candies – these were my favorite! My daughter had a blast curating her own wee bag of candies. If you have a sweet tooth, this is definitely one of the best things to do in Inverness with kids!
Afternoon Tea at the Ness Walk Hotel
One of the highlights of our trip was Afternoon Tea at the Ness Walk Hotel! Before embarking on our month-long experience in Inverness, sharing an Afternoon Tea with my daughter was at the top of my list. Luckily, we were able to do one in London and one in Inverness!
Afternoon Tea at the Ness Walk Hotel is simply lovely. Tables are beautifully set, the staff is very kind, and towering windows let in natural light and river or garden views. While there are no specific kids’ menus, your kids can likely enjoy many, if not all, of the options that come with the standard menu. My daughter tried a little bit of everything and definitely found a few favorites, too. Then, gluten-free and vegan menus will also be available (must be selected in advance).
Finally, to enjoy one of the best things to do in Inverness for families, I recommend making reservations online before you go. The walk from the city center to the Ness Walk Hotel is about 10-15 minutes.
4 Fun Day Trips + Weekend Getaways from Inverness with Kids
One of the best things to do while visiting Inverness with kids is to take a day trip or weekend getaway to explore more of the Highlands together! If you’re looking for some of the best day trips or weekend getaways from Inverness with kids, here are the four I recommend based on our experience.
Loch Ness
Loch Ness is about 25 minutes by car from Inverness. You can also reach this area by bus (take the #17 bus from Inverness to Drumnadrochit). If you don’t want to drive or take the public bus, you can also book this Loch Ness Cruise and Urquhart Castle Bus Tour from Inverness. This beautiful part of the Highlands is a must if you travel to Inverness! Not only can you see a castle and learn about local history here, but the views of Loch Ness are some of the best you’ll find in Scotland.
Urquhart Castle
When you arrive, make your way to Urquhart Castle. This historic castle (now ruins) and its grounds were once the most important stronghold on Loch Ness, from the early Picts until the 1600s. During the later part of its history as a vibrant and thriving castle, it belonged to Clan Grant. There is even a Clan Grant tower, which still partly stands and offers excellent views of Loch Ness. This was a special part of our visit since Grant is our surname, and we can trace our family history back to this part of the Highlands.
While you are here, self-guided and audio-guided tours are available. Additionally, activity packets are available for kids. We recommend booking tickets online in advance (especially if you require parking).
Afterward, head into Drumnadrochit for lunch. Ness Deli is a great option, as it is centrally located and right off the bus line. They offer several great menu items like quiche, sandwiches, etc.
Loch Ness Centre
Then, walk up to the Loch Ness Centre for a guided tour to learn about the history and legends of Loch Ness and Nessie (its famous monster). Located in the old Drumnadrochit Hotel (an important landmark in Nessie lore), the tour uses state-of-the-art audio and visual experiences to tell the many stories and legends surrounding the Loch Ness Monster. It includes all the scientific proof (or lack thereof, depending on your stance) needed to convince you (or not) of Nessie’s existence. We were very impressed by the tour, and highly recommend it!
Want to get on the water? Consider taking the Loch Ness 1-Hour Cruise with Urquhart Castle Views!
Aviemore
Aviemore is a lovely town near Inverness. From its charming streets to its mountain views, it is undoubtedly worth exploring together for a day or two (or more!). If driving from Inverness, the route takes about 40 minutes. It’s roughly the same travel time by train. If you’re taking the train from Inverness (which is what we did), you can choose an “any-time return” ticket. This allows you to catch the train when you’re ready to return (instead of speculating on the specific time you’ll want to return).
Cairngorms National Park
Famous for its location near Cairngorms National Park, Aviemore is likely your launching point for the park. While we didn’t add the park to our trip this time, it features beautiful secluded lochs, ancient forests, and mountain trails. For these reasons and more, Cairngorms National Park is one of the best places for outdoor adventures in Scotland!
Highland Wildlife Park
As one of the best day trips from Inverness with kids, Aviemore has much to offer beyond Cairngorms National Park. Highland Wildlife Park is another major draw to Aviemore – and it’s easy to see why. It’s nestled right in the Cairngorms Mountain Range and is home to various unique creatures. You can explore the park by car or by foot (or both). Either way, you can see local animals like Scotland’s iconic wildcats (we even saw babies during our visit), as well as global creatures like polar bears, snow leopards, and more. If you don’t have a car, you can take the #39 bus from the stop near the train station exit. The bus takes about 20 minutes, then you must walk about another 10 minutes to the park entrance.
There are several lunch options on-site, including food trucks. We grabbed a couple of sandwiches from one of the food trucks and had lunch near the huge on-site playground. After lunch, we took the same bus back into Aviemore (be aware that Google may not have updated times for the return bus).
Back in Aviemore
Once you’ve returned to Aviemore, you can explore the main downtown stretch. It features a variety of shops and restaurants. While they didn’t make our itinerary this time, other things to do in Aviemore include:
- Hiking + exploring at Craigellachie National Nature Reserve
- Seeing the reindeer at Cairngorm Reindeer Herd
- Swimming in a nearby loch (there are several to choose from!)
Aberdeen
Just 2.5 hours from Inverness (by both car and train), Aberdeen is a fantastic option when looking for the best weekend getaways from Inverness with kids. A port city in northeast Scotland, Aberdeen is a more industrial city with excellent museums, beaches, and great food for families. The city has a different, more dynamic vibe than Inverness’s laid-back charm. Walking around Aberdeen, you can definitely feel the tug between the old world and the new.
READ NEXT: A Family Guide to 2 Amazing Days in Aberdeen, Scotland, with Kids
Day 1 in Aberdeen
After arriving, we headed straight to Aberdeen Beach, which was about a 30-minute walk from the train station. There are several places on the beach to set up a towel or blanket and stick your toes in the water. Near the beach, Promenade Café is an excellent stop for lunch (mind the seagulls!). After lunch, Aberdeen Science Centre is just a 10-15 minute walk. It’s a fantastic museum with younger kids and tweens who love hands-on science and tech exhibits. My daughter loved this museum! She spent a lot of time building, playing, and exploring the many interactive displays.
Then, Cafe Harmony is a wonderful spot for dinner! While they don’t offer a specific kids’ menu, the staff is very helpful in finding something that will work for your child. After dinner, let kids burn off some energy at Union Terrace Gardens. There is a huge green space, plus a fun little playground. Finally, we stayed at the Mercure Aberdeen Caledonian Hotel. It is a no-frills, budget-friendly hotel with a great location in the center of Aberdeen near Union Terrace Gardens (and a short walk from the train station).
Day 2 in Aberdeen
Grab a coffee and head back to Union Terrace Gardens. It’s a great place to let kids play while you get organized for the day. Then, take one of the nearby bus routes to Old Aberdeen (about 20 minutes by bus or 40 minutes on foot).
The University of Aberdeen Zoology Museum should be your first stop in Old Aberdeen. The museum is free and offers a few kid-friendly activities. Within the museum, you will see a wide collection of specimens, from reptiles and birds to mammals (many of which were collected by professors in the 1800s). Afterward, walk to Shelter Coffee for lunch (simple, but delicious sandwiches). Then, continue on to Seaton Park. Here, you’ll find a massive park with trails and a playground. When you’re done playing, catch the bus back into the port area of Aberdeen.
There are several fantastic museums in Aberdeen. For our second afternoon, we opted for the Aberdeen Maritime Museum. The museum offers several floors of exhibits on various topics, from maritime history and art to life at sea. It is very well-curated and has a few interactive exhibits, too. Before catching the train back to Inverness, dinner at Mac’s Pizzeria is a must! They offer a huge wood-fired pizza menu and other delicious, Italian-inspired items. If you have more time to spare, the train station is attached to Union Square, which is a large mall.
Isle of Skye
Undoubtedly, the Isle of Skye is among the best weekend getaways from Inverness with kids! In fact, the Isle of Skye is one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been in the world. The scenery is just unreal! We were so impressed by the mountain and sea views from every direction. And the colors – wow! So many greens and purples. We spent two days on the Isle of Skye, which was simply not enough time. I highly recommend three or four days, minimum, to truly enjoy the island and everything it offers (especially if you plan to do a lot of hiking).
From Inverness, there are two routes to the Isle of Skye by car. Both look almost the same on Google Maps, but they are NOT the same. We took both routes; learn from us! One goes to the north, and the other to the south. Take the one that goes to the south. The northern route is much slower than Google Maps states and relies heavily on single-track lanes. It also has enormous potholes that are just clamoring to pop your tires. Meanwhile, the southern route is more direct and offers beautiful views of Loch Ness! Plan on 2.5 – 3 hours of drive time.
Then, you should plan to drive to the Isle of Skye. Public transportation to and on the island will only take you so far and will be very time-consuming. Alternatively, you can enjoy the island by guided bus tours, like this 2-Day Tour to the Isle of Skye, The Fairy Pools & Highland Castles.
Things to Do in the Isle of Skye
Once you arrive on the Isle of Skye, there are so many fun things to do and places to eat with kids! I outline our experience more fully in this article, but here are some of our top highlights:
- Hike the Old Man of Storr
- See the Fossils at Staffin Dinosaur Museum
- Feel the magic at the Fairy Glen
- Wander the grounds of Dunvegan Castle
- Learn about local whiskey at Talisker Distillery
- Hike to the Fairy Pools (and take a dip too!)
Click here to read more about our experience and recommendations: Exciting 2- to 3- Day Itinerary for the Isle of Skye with Kids
Where to Eat in Inverness with Kids
Now that you know about the best things to do in Inverness with kids, let’s talk about where to eat. We found the food scene in Inverness to be surprisingly good! There were so many fantastic places to eat across the city. In fact, you can find everything from local Scottish fare and pizza to Indian food. Keep reading to discover my top recommendations for where to eat in Inverness with kids!
Tips for Eating in Inverness with Kids
Before deciding where to eat, let’s talk about a few tips for eating in Scotland with kids:
- If a server asks you if you want something for the table (like bread), it’s probably not free—except for tap water! Tap water is your free water option.
- Tipping is less common than in the US, but 10% for good table service is generally recommended. It is not possible to tip with a credit card (in most situations). Receipts will not have a tip line, and most payment tablets do not include tip lines.
- They take food intolerances and allergies seriously – every restaurant has alerts asking for this information, and servers will often ask if anyone has food intolerances or allergies.
- Many restaurants DO offer kids’ menus.
READ NEXT: A Foodie Parent’s Guide to 15 Fantastic Places to Eat in Inverness with Kids
Where to Eat Breakfast + Lunch in Inverness with Kids
When we slow travel, we typically like to find one neighborhood cafe to start each day. In Inverness, Grain and Grind Inverness was our spot. From our very first morning here to the last day of our stay, we absolutely adored this place! The coffee and pastries are outstanding. Plus, they offer a few sandwich options for lunch.
My daughter loved their mini Victorian sponge cakes, while I simply couldn’t choose a favorite (everything was terrific!). In addition, the staff was exceptional! They took great care of us and checked in on us throughout our stay. While there are many other places and coffee shops in Inverness, you can’t beat Grain and Grind Inverness!
Then, for lunch, try one of these fantastic eateries:
- The Rendezvous Cafe Inverness is in the heart of the old city and is excellent for brunch or lunch. We loved the classic Hollywood vibe and cozy ambiance. The building is also steeped in musical history!
- The Bakery is a delightful family-owned bakery ideal for picking up a quick dessert or loaf of fresh-baked bread! For lunch, they offer fantastic sandwiches. There is some basic seating on-site, or you can take the sandwiches to go for a picnic.
- The Victorian Market is located in the old city and is a 19th-century shopping area filled with stores, plus some great cafes and eateries! In particular, we loved the sandwiches and savories from Bad Girl Bakery & Cafe.
- Comfort Foods is a no-frills, cash-only diner in the city center. It offers just what it advertises—hearty comfort food! Just make sure you have cash, because the nearest ATM is a few blocks away (ask me how I know…).
- Highland Food and Drink Trail is an up-and-coming food truck court along the River Ness. Some stationary and rotating trucks make for a great lunch or easy dinner with river views. Auld Smokey Pizza offers some of the best pizza in town! You can have dinner here, too.
Where to Eat Dinner in Inverness with Kids
There are so many great places for dinner in Inverness with kids. Again, Inverness has a surprisingly great foodie scene! During our month exploring the city, we tried several places. As usual, trying local foods and restaurants was one of our favorite things to do when visiting Inverness!
Here are the ones we loved and recommend for your upcoming family trip to Inverness.
- The Castle Tavern offers some of the best Scottish fare in town. In fact, we had one of our best meals here! They don’t take reservations, so go early as it fills quickly. If you can, get a patio table for fantastic river views.
- Tiger on the Wall was one of our favorite restaurants in town! We absolutely loved the staff and the food. You can’t go wrong with anything on the menu. They can easily accommodate large groups, and they offer a kids’ menu.
- EscoBar – Taqueria & Cocktails is located in the old city and is a great spot for low-key Tex Mex-style food. It’s perfect for kids and adults who “need a break” from travel food and want something that reminds them of home. They can easily accommodate large groups, and they offer a kids’ menu.
- Black Isle Brewery was another one of our favorites! Their pizza and house-made beer are fantastic. The main dining area can also accommodate large groups (and takes reservations). If you are traveling with a smaller group, head upstairs to eat in the secret garden – you won’t regret it!
- The Kitchen Restaurant was, hands down, my favorite eatery in town. The venison is unbelievable and one of the best dishes I’ve ever had while traveling. You will need to make a reservation (request to eat on the 3rd floor for great river and old city views!). They offer a kids’ menu.
- Fig & Thistle is a lovely restaurant near the old city. A friend recommended it to me, and I am passing that recommendation on to you. The restaurant is charming, and the staff is very kind. And the food is absolutely dynamite!
Where to Grab Drinks or Ice Cream in Inverness with Kids
If you are looking for a place to grab some pre-dinner drinks or a quick ice cream, here are two places to add to your Inverness itinerary!
- Uilebheist Distillery & Brewery has a great outdoor patio in the summer and indoor seating. We loved having happy hours here before dinner. If you are strolling along the Ness Walk, it’s a great spot for a break, too!
- Miele’s Gelateria Inverness is an excellent option for an ice cream or treat while exploring Inverness. It is located near Leaky’s Bookshop and The Victorian Market.
Where to Stay in Inverness with Kids
Now that you know all about the best things to do and places to eat in Inverness with kids, let’s talk about where to stay! 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 were in Inverness for a month, we opted for this home rental using Vrbo. The flat is a 1 bedroom, 1 bath (with a pull-out couch). It had all the amenities we wanted, including a washing machine, garden, and full kitchen. Plus, the location was perfect. Nestled in a quiet neighborhood, it was still within walking distance of many of the best attractions and restaurants across the city (typically, anywhere from 5 to 20 minutes). Finally, it was within 10 minutes of a grocery store and multiple bus stops. Alternatively, Highland Apartments would be another excellent option for an apartment rental.
If you prefer a hotel, here are some great options to consider in Inverness for families:
- 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)
Enjoy Inverness with Kids
Ready to travel to Inverness with your kids? I hope that you are! This Family Guide to Visiting Inverness with Kids includes everything you need to know about enjoying this fantastic city together. In fact, I’ve included all of my favorite things to do in Inverness with kids, including day trips and weekend getaways, not to mention family-friendly restaurants and places to stay. I hope 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.