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Top Attractions to Visit

ExploreInverness & Area Guide with Maps

ExploreInverness & Area Guide with Maps

Beauly, Dingwall, Loch Ness, The Black Isleeauly, Dingwall, Loch Ness, The Black IsleThis is atartan. The MacKenzies hadlands around the Muir of Ord andmuch of mid-Ross. After thebattle or Largs in 1263, whichsaw the end of the Norsemans(Viking) power on ScotlandsWest Coast, the MacKenzieswere given the right to be part oftheRoyal Bodyguard until 1513.

MacKenzie weathered

Jacobite Loch Ness

Open Prices from 11.50

has been sailing for over 30 yrs

with a five-star fleet, a passionate crew & a choice ofexcitingcruise & tour options.So, whetheryou want togo on a cruise, explore Urquhart Castle or visit thefascinating LochNess Exhibition Centre, Jacobitehasthe experience, the enthusiasm, the fleet and,perhaps best of all, gives you the opportunity to

experience the sheer beauty, drama and history of Loch Ness.all year. Tel 01463 233999 www.jacobite.co.uk.

..Wwww.explorescotland.net2010/2011

Places to Visit Shops & Services Sport & Recreation Eating Out

River Ness in the City of Inverness

Cawdor Castle,

Open

with links to Shakespeares

Macbeth.The tower anddrawbridgeare intact. Witha wide collection of paintings, books tapestries andfurniture in thecastle. Gardens;nature trails; 9 holegolf course and putting green; restaurant; snackbar;3 shops. 1st May to3rdOctober, 10amto 5.30pm (last entry 5pm); Tel: 01667 404401

www.cawdorcastle.com Between Inverness/Nairnon B9090 IV12 5RD

.(Map B3)

Hootananny Ceilidh BarLIVE SCOTTISH MUSIC EVERY NIGHT

1st Floor: Scottish Music2nd Floor: Rock, Jazz, Blues

Award winning Thai CuisineCeilidh every Saturday 2.30pm to 4.30pm

Winner of ICA Pub of the Year

67 Church St

2006, 2007, 2008 and 2009

IV1 1ES.

Tel:01463 233651(Map Ref B2).w

www.hootananny.co.uk

Moniack Castle c1580 Come and visitand taste the

range of liqueurs, wines and preserves. Specialitiesinclude Sloe liqueur, Mead and country wines such as

Silver Birch and Elderflower.Summer Monday to Saturday, 10am to 5pm

(winter 11am to 4pm Monday to Friday.)7

Tel:01463 831283 www.moniackcastle.co.uk

Highland Wineries at Moniack Castle

Open

miles from Inverness on A862 Beauly Rd, IV5 7PQ.

Dolphin watching at Chanonry Point. While thepoint is without doubt the best place to watch theBottlenose Dolphins. The nearby Dolphin and SealCentre at North Kessock alsooffers dolphinwatchingopportunities during the summer months. They arewild& freeand can sometimes beseen in front ofthelarge ships entering/leaving the harbour. ChanonryPointis situatedEastof Fortroseoff theA832.

Inverness Museum & Art Gallery

Open

Explore the art, historyand heritage of the Highlands. Get face to face with a pinemarten and scratch a badger's belly. Experience Highlandcontemporary art and crafts and play a game of merrells.Come and visit this exciting and interactive museum in the

centre of Inverness. Admission is free! Monday toSaturday, 10 am to 5 pm, Cuach coffee shop and gift shop, Tel: 01463 237114,

www.inverness.highland.museum (Map Ref: B2)Castle Wynd, Inverness IV2 3EB

. The battlelines have been redrawn at the Cullodenbattlefield. With the Site restored asclosely as possible to that seen on thatfateful day in April 1746, Culloden nowboasts a new visitor centre and excitinginteractive exhibition. Follow characterswho were actually involved in the battle in

the exhibition, experience the true horrorofthe battle inthe 360 immersive film,takea battlefield tour, and watch the daily LivingHistory presentations. Battlefield Visitorcentre, Exhibition, Licensed restaurant,Shop. - 24 Jan to 31 Mar daily 10 -4pm, 1 April to 31 Oct daily 9 - 6pm 1 Nov to24 Dec daily 10 - 4pm all yeardaily.

Tel 0844 4932159.www.nts.org.uk

Culloden Battlefield (NTS)

Open

Site: OpenOn B9006, 5 miles East of Inverness.

IV2 5EU.

T h e D a l m o r e D i s t i l l e r y , A l n e s s ,Established in 1839, The Dalmore Distillery sits ont h e s h or e s o f t h e C r om a rt y F i r t h .Do not miss out on this truly unique opportunity toexperience the dedication and craftsmanship that

goes into every bottle of our famous malt whisky.Visitor Centre Mon Fri , Mar Oct 11.00am 5.00pm and Nov Feb ,11.00am 3.00pm.

Tel: 01349 882362 to book your tour.

Open

IV17 0UT.

Brodie Castle.

Open

Open

The impressive castle dates from the C16th& contains fine furniture, porcelain & a major collection ofEnglish & Dutch paintings. A woodland walk and wildlifehides. Shop, wild garden, childrens adventure playgroundand picnic area. : Castle 1-30 Apr daily 10.30-4.301 May -30 Jun, Sun to Wed 10.30-4.30, 1 Jul to 31 Aug10.30-5pm. 1 Sept to 31 Oct Sun to Wed 10.30-4.30. Lasttour 1hr before close. Grounds all year.

Tel:0844 4932156Off A96,

24milesEast of Inverness. IV362TE.

Hugh Miller Museum & Birthplace Cottage

Open

presents Hugh Millers many talents, includingstonemason, geologist, writer, editor and churchreformer through a variety of exhibitions. The C17ththatched cottage where Hugh was born in 1802, hasanaudio tourwhich tells ofits history. 2 to5 Apr,Fri - Mon 1-5pm,1 May to30 Sep daily 1-5,1 Oct to17Oct Sun - Wed 1-5pm. Last entry 4.30pm Tel: 08444932158 Church St Cromarty IV118XA

.

The Falls of Shin -. Nature trails with

breathtaking scenery,The cosy

welcomingvisitors centre restaurant serves gourmet cuisine,for visitors and ramblers.

Tel: 01549402231 www.fallsofshin.co.uk

Exceptional enough to render youspeechless, thunderous yet serene

Achany Glen, Lairg, SutherlandIV274EE

- watch the salmon leap here allsummer, only an hour North of Inverness.

The sizable gift shop offers Falls ofShin souvenirs & many Harrods gift ideas. Fabulous outdoorplay areaandminigolf.

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Active Inverness Shop Inverness

Castle Gallery, The Independent

Open

described bynewspaper as

hows landscape, figurative and abstractwork by artists from Scotland and throughout Britain,with piecesby established artistsand emerging talent.Exhibitions of contemporary paintings, prints,sculpture, crafts and jewellery. Mon to Sat9 . 0 0 a m t o 5 . 0 0 p m

Tel:01463 729512 (MapRef:C2)

one of the best reasons to visitInverness s

4 3 C a s t l e S t .IV23DU.www.castlegallery.co.uk

When in Inverness you simply must visit thetruly authentic home of Highland Dresswear

The Shop is a treasure trove of top quality kilts, jackets, sporrans, accessories, tartans and clanmemorabilia. A family run business in theshadow of the Castle which makes you mostwelcome.T: 01463 234599 www.kilts.co.uk (Map Ref: C2)

Chisholms Highland Dress.

.

47/51 Castle Street, IV2 3DU..O

Pleasantly located on the banks of the RiverNess, the has probably thewidestselection of Fine Artin theHighlands,from19th Century Scottish Art through early & late20th Century work, to the very latest ofcontemporary Scottish painting. Well worth avisi t. 9.30am to 5.00pm dai ly all year(Saturdays to 3pm, closed Sundays).

Tel:01463 224781 (Map Ref B2)

Riverside Gallery

Open11 Bank St,

IV1 1QY..

.

www.riversidegallery.info

The in the heart ofthe Old Town is a unique covered

shopping area with a wide variety ofchoice.

Victorian Market

Victorian Market. Originally built in1870 then destroyed by fire in 1888and rebuilt in 1890 in the ornatesplendourof theVictorian era. Home tosome 41 shops offering a wide varietyof choice to the shopper including 2c af s . W el l w or th a v is it .

www.invernessvictorianmarket.com( Map Ref:B2), . W

IV1 1PT.

Inverness- Ness Island Walk-

Follow the foot steps

Watch out for seals,

Walking upstream

Allow

Invernessmustbe oneof thefewcitiesin the

world where you can literally walk from the city centre along a picturesque

river and feel as though you are right

in themiddle of thecountryside.

on the painted

Inverness City Centre map along the

banks of the River Ness. There are a

number of footbridges along its

length of the River Ness where you

can cross from one side of the river to

the other.

especially between Friars Bridgeand Ness Bridgeyou

will often seea head sticking outof theriver.

The seals are shy creatures so be patient

and do not make it obvious that you have

spottedthe seal andyouwill able towatchit

for ages.

you will find Ness

Island. The walk will take you past the

Castle, churches and gardens. Cross the

river on the little bridges and you can visit

Bught Park. Close by youwill find theFloral

Hall - a sub tropical horticultural gem

with small waterfalls, fish and an

assortmentof plants/trees.Floral Halls

alsohas a delightfullittletea room

You canmake a loop by theconnecting

bridges, and if its the right season you

can watch the salmon fishermen

standingin theriver.

1 to2 hoursfor thecircular walk.

The Old North Inn has been at the heart of the historyof the village of Inchmore for 270yrs. Its former namewas the Bog Roy, and is said to be haunted by aprevious owner. The Restaurant is proud to serve

unashamedly Scottish Cuisine - from locally sourcedproduce, meat fish, haggis, ice-cream, and vegetablesfreshfrom thefieldnextdoor. Virtuallyeverything on ourmenuis homemade. Tel:01463 831 296

www.oldnorthinn.comKirkhill 7miles

fromInverness IV5 7PX..

Caf Victoria & Old Town Whisky StoreVictorian Market, Inverness since 1870

Fabulous lunches.Including seafood and lobster salads andhaggis.Afternoon teas and home baking.Stockists of Fine Malt whiskies, cashmerescarves, Skye pottery & Scottish preserves.Inverness. IV1 1PJ (Map Ref:B2)

The Phoenix Bar & Restaurant

The Filling Station

River House Restaurant

The Old North Inn

Dores Inn

1

1 The Riverside Gallery

Chisholms Highland Dress

Castle Gallery

The Victorian Market

1

Shops

Jacobite Cruises

Hootananny

Inverness Museum & Art Gallery

Key to Map on pages 4 & 5

Attractions

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Eating Out.Caf Victoria

The Royal Highland Hotel

La Tortilla Assina Tapas & Wine Bar.

Caf 1.

Waterfront Bar & Restaurant

Cinnamon Indian Restaurant

Rocpool Restaurant.

Riva Ristorante ItalianoGirvans

The Waterside Hotel

The Room

No 27

716

7172

The Dores Inn.Great steaks, superb local ales

& a warm welcome on theshores of Loch Ness.

10am - till late 7 days.

info@thedoresinn.co.uk

OpenOnly 5 mls from Inverness on

the B862.Dores, Loch Ness. NrInverness. IV1 2TR. Tel:01463

751203

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Eating Out

GIRVANS, a licensed restaurant, where awarm welcome awaits you -

This familyrun restaurant uses only the finest ofingredients and all meals are prepared andcooked on the premises. The very best ofScottish produce is used where possible.The atmosphere is warm, pleasant and very

There is nobetter endorsementof a businessthan locals,queuing to get in, at busy times.

friendly. Enjoy breakfast, lunch, a coffee withfriends or give yourself a real treat and enjoyone of thedelicious dishes from their specialevening menu. Vegetarian and childrencatered for 7 days, 9am to 9.00pm.(Sunday 10amto 9.00pm)

Tel:01463711900www.girvansrestaurant.co.uk (Map Ref: C3)

Open

2 StephensBrae, Inverness IV2 3JN.

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The Waterside HotelInverness, Serving food all day.

Located along the beautiful banks of the RiverNess. Dine in our river-view ConservatoryRestaurant serving fresh innovative dishes

with locally sourced ingredients.E/mail: info@thewatersideinverness.co.uk

www.thewatersideinverness.co.ukTel: 01463 233065 (Map Ref C2)IV2 4SF.

La Tortilla Asesina, Tapas & Wine Bar.

Open

You reallyshould visit this restaurant! A unique local wine barwith a unique menu and interior. A huge selection oftapas andan interesting selectionof mainsized dishes.It was once said that Raymond Blanc has the name ofthis restaurant tattooed onto his eyelid! 7 days.Sun to Thurs 12 noon to 10pm. Fri/Sat. 12 noon to11pm Tel: 01463 709809www.latortillaasesina.co.uk (Map Ref:C2)

99 Castle St. IV2 3EA..

Open 11am to 1pm(Mon to Sat), 12 to 12 (Sun)

Tel: 01463 245990(Map Ref B2)

106-110 Academy StIV1 1LX

.

Phoenix Bar & Flames Restaurant and MusicVenue.

Every Fri & Sat 9pm Livemusic

The oldest and most traditional bar inInverness with original features dating back to the18th Century. Serving Traditional real ales bothlocal and national.

from different genres - something foreveryone. Country Music, Rock, Punk, FolkAcoustic 60s, 70s and 80s music. Gypsy Swing.

The Food is traditional home cooked pub grub including Haggis neeps andtatties, stovies and scotch pie.

.

Music, Food, Quiz nights, Poker nights, BigScreen Live Sports, all in a friendly relaxedAtmosphere.

The Royal Highland Hotel, one of Scotlandsoldest & most loved, was originally theRailway Cos Station Hotel. In late Victoriantimes it waspatronised by Royalty from Britain

and abroad. Serving gourmet cuisine at therenowned Ash restaurant, with the moretraditional coffee lounge & gallery deli servingfine patisseries.Tel: 01463 251451/or 231926 (Map Ref B3)

Station Squ,IV11LG

Cinnamon Indian Restaurant is popularwith locals, with 85% of its business comingfrom repeat trade. It has an excellentreputation for the high standard andconsistency of its cuisine. The attentive staffare pleased to guide you through the menu.Popular dishes include Bhuna, Korma,Massala, Chicken Jalfrezie, lamb or chickenMadras.

TheirpopularSunday Buffet (over 35 items)Eat asmuch as you like! 12.30 to 4.30pm 8.95; 5pm to10.30pm 10.95

2 Course Lunch with coffee 7.95. Mon toThurs 12 to 2pm & 5 to 11pm, Fri 5 to 11pm, Sat 12to 2pm & 5 to 11pm

T e l : 01 4 63 7 1 60 2 0www.cinnamon-inverness.com (Map Ref:B3)

...Cinnamon is a welcoming

restaurant with excellent dishes. The Herald.

1b Milburn Rd. Opp. Morrisons,I n ve r ne s s I V 2 3 PX .

Open

.

Waterfront Bar & Restaurant.The Waterfront

Open

On the banks ofthe River Ness has an excellentreputation for its good food and friendliness. Witha varied menu, all food is freshly prepared. Freshlocal seafood when available. 7 days. Bar1 1 . 30 a m ( 1 2 . 3 0 S u n ) t o 1 1 . 00 p m(12.00 Fri and Sat ). Lunch 12noon (12.30 Sun )to 2.15pm. Dinner 5pm to 9.00pm.

Tel:01463233870 (MapRef:B1)70 Huntly St.

IV35JN..

Rocpool Restaurant.

Scotland the Best 2009 '

'The list2009.

Chic and Cheerful. Fizz with allthe buzz. Energetic and intimate. Smart and neverstuffy, ' forsometime nowthe consistentlygoodplace toeat in the city centre' inInverness rocpool restaurant is arguably the bestrestaurant of its type, a vibrant eatery serving fresh,tasty food in a relaxed stylish environment

Tel: 01463 717274 1 Ness Walk, IV3 5NE.

www.rocpoolrestaurant.com (Map Ref C2)

Caf 1

Open

has an excellent reputation built overthe last 11yrs for high quality modern Scottishcuisine. Only fresh locally sourced freshproduce are used where possible, also homemade deserts & ice creams. Friendlyprofessional service.

allday, lunch from 12noondinner from5.30pm.

www.cafe1.net

Caf 1 the accent is ongoodfood.

75Castle Street. IV23EA.

Tel:01463 226200 (MapRef:C2)

Filling Station

Open

offers a warmwelcome, comfortable

surroundings and of course fantastic food. Menuhighlights include a wide range of sandwiches,burgers, salads and grills, not to mention the everpopular sizzling fajitas. Filling Stations centrallocation makes it an ideal place to refuel aftershopping, sightseeing or stepping off a train.

8am until late. IV1 1JTTel: 01463 663 360 (Map Ref: B2)

8-10 Academy Street. .

R e no w ne d f o r s u pe r b s e af o od a n d

s u m pt u o us s t e ak s .E n jo y t o p q ua l it ymodern Scottish cuisine

in beautiful relaxed surroundings with fantastic views ofthe river and the castle. Watch the chef proprietorprepare and cook all dishes to order in the open plankitchen!

(1 mag 2009) Friendly efficient service,smart but informal. Lunch 12 - 2pm, Full evening/dinnermenu available nightly from5.30pm.

(Map Ref:B1)

The flavours and aromas bursting through thesauces overwhelm your taste buds and knock them intosubmission

River House Restaurant.No1, Greig Street, Inverness

IV3 5PT.Tel:01463 222033

www.riverhouseinverness.co.uk

Number 27 -

Open

has a strong local trade, with arestaurant quality, pub gastro menu. All food locallysourced where possible and freshly prepared on the

premises. Chefs Specials board, changes daily.Largest selection of draft beers in Inverness. FreeInternet hot spots. 11am to 1am (Mon - Fri),00.30am (Saturday), 12.30pm to 11pm (Sunday).Tel: 01463 241999

www.theroomandno27.co.uk (Map Ref:C3)27 Castle Street, Inverness.

IV2 3DU.

The Room,

Open

has an excellent reputation for its pubstyle food which is all freshly prepared. Menu has awide choice of dishes starters from 3, Mains from5.95. every Fri & Satfrom 10pm, with tribute bands and contemporaryRock Music. Free Internet hotspot. 11am to1am (Mon-Fri) to (00.30am Sat), 12.30 to 11pm(Sun). Tel: 01463 233077

Best live music in Inverness

73 Queensgate,IV1 1DG.

.www.theroomandno27.co.uk (MapRef:B2)

Riva Ristorante Italiano Regarded by many as

THE Italian Restaurant in Inverness! In a beautifullocation overlooking the River Ness & InvernessCastle. Superb modern Italian Menu withrelaxedbutattentive service. Serving lunch, Early Evening & ALa Carte. Outside terrace(summer). Lively Pizzeriaupstairs serving hand thrown pizzas & freshly madepastas. Tel. 01463 237377www.rivarestaurant.co.uk (MapRef:C2)

4-6 Ness Walk. IV3 5NE

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Copyright Explore Scotland Ltd 2010 Tel: 01796 473335 email: info@explorescotland.net

GirvansRestaurant

CinnamonIndian

Restaurant

The WaterfrontBar & Restaurant

RiversideGallery

Toilets

Bus Station

RailwayStation

e Cruises

A9fro

theSouth

A82

From

Loch

Ness

o m

The Oldhe Old

Town

CawdorCastle

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1

2

3

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East GateCentre

VisitEating

OutShopsColour Key

(See page 2 for list)Cash Machines 5 Historic Trail (Page 6)

The RoyalHighland

Hotel

FalconSquare

CastleGallery

Chisholms

La TortillaSpanish

Restaurant

The WatersideRestaurant

RivaBistro

Italiano

CafVictoriaHootananny

Caf Bar

InvernessOld HighChurch

Floral Hall,Gardens &

Coffee Shop

A9 fromthe North

VictorianMarket

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Rocpool

InvernessMuseum

InvernessCastle.

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Caf 1

Toilets

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The PhoenixBar

RiverhouseRestaurant

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No 27

14 The FillingStation

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The Room

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Inverness Historic

Inverness

The word Inverness

is one of the oldest towns in Scotland. From 585 AD tothe present day, Inverness has been the natural place for peoplefrom the Highlands and further afield to meet and trade. This ancienthistory is reflected in the wealth of interesting buildings to be foundaround the compact city centre.

comes from the Gaelic meaning Mouth of theRiver Ness a walk around the riverside today gives you thechance to enjoy beautiful mountain views and wildlife in the heart ofthe city.

The Inverness Historic Trail guides you

Refer to the numbers on the painted city centre map in thecentre pages of this guide for directions

through Invernesss Newand Old Towns where you will find fascinating buildings and anabundance of shops and restaurants to enjoy. From the unique localtraders in the Victorian Market, to souvenir shops by the river and onthe High Street, and quality retailers in the Eastgate Centre; theCapital of the Highlands offers a friendly welcome with plenty to seeand do.

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2.

3.

5.

7.

Inverness Castle

Inverness Museum (see page 1)

Town House

Tollbooth Steeple

Library

Abertarff House

There has been a castle on this sitesince the 12th century. PrinceCharles Edward Stuarts Jacobitesblew up the Hanoverian Fort in1746. The present sandstonebuilding dates from 1834 with theNorth block added in 1847. Todayitserves as the Inverness SheriffCourt House.

Completedin 1882, thisVictorianGothic

building was the Town House of theRoyal Burgh of Inverness and nowserves as the Inverness area office of

t h e H i g h l a n dCouncil.

TheGeorgian tollbooth steeplewas erectedbesidethe adjoining OldCourt House and Jail in 1791 andrises 45 metres to where three bronze bellshanginthe spire.

In 1841 this building, which hasEgyptian and Greek influences waserected with Doric columns and

pediments to house Bell's Institution,and the school remained in thebuilding until 1937. It has been thehome of thepubliclibrary since 1981.

Built in 1593, this is the earliest survivinghouse in Inverness. The crow-steppedgables - known as "corbie steps" - of thistown house stand out in this crowdedstreet. It was received from the National

4.

6.

FalconSquare

The Victorian Market

is named after John Falconer who openedFalcon Foundry at Inverness Rail Terminus in1858. The building on the square whichhouses Laura Ashley and Pizza Expressformed part of this Foundry i t wasdismantled and relocated here in the late1990s.

Originally known as the "New Market", was builtin 1870 and rebuiltafter a fire in 1890. It connectsall four surrounding streets and houses a varietyof unique local shops. The entrance fromAcademy Street has Corinthian arches and

animal carvings onthe keystones.

8.

9.

10.

Dunbar's Hospital

Old GaelicChurch

Old HighChurch

Built in 1668, this building is named afterProvost Alexander Dunbar, who endowed itas a hospital for the poor, and as theGrammar School which remained thereuntil 1792. Subsequently it served as apublic library and now houses flats, a shopand a day centre.

Builtas theGaelic Church in 1649. Rebuiltin1792 and reconstructed before becomingGreyfriars Free Church. It now houses asecondhand bookshop and caf.

The original Parish Church of Invernessdedicated to St Mary, built on St Michael's Mountsince at least the 12th Century. The base of thebell tower probably dates from the 15th centuryand the topfrom the 17th. The church was built inthe 1770s. Jacobite prisoners were confined inthe church after Culloden and some wereexecuted in thegraveyard.

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15.

Free North Church

St Columbas High

Church

Balnain House

St Mary's

Inverness Cathedral

Built in 1889-92 in decorated Gothic style it hasthe highest steeple in Inverness, a dominant

feature by the River Ness.

T h e c o ng r eg a ti o n w a sestablished in 1843, thepresent church opened in1852. A fire in 1940 left onlythe walls standing. Thecongregation, servicemen &prisoners of warrefurbished the church and it opened nine yearslater.

Built as a town house

around 1726 in early Georgian style, BalnainHouse was used as a hospital for Hanoveriansoldiers after Culloden and as billets for theRoyal Engineers when completing the 1stOrdnance Survey. Now restored it is the officeo f T he N at i on al T ru st f o r S co t la n d.

Built in 1837 in perpendicular GothicRevival style, St Mary's is the first RomanCatholic church built in Inverness after theReformation.

The Cathedral was built 1866-69, to adesign by Alexander Ross, in GothicRevival style. The original design(shown on a painting inside thebuilding) incorporated spires. Open allyear forvisitors,9am - 6pm.

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Day Tour East of Inverness

North of Inverness Day Trip Route

North of Inverness Places to Visit

This circular tour of approx.40 miles takes you to a number of important Scottish sites and buildings. Each of the attractions highlighted on this tour is special in

their own unique way and is highly recommended to visit.

N.B If you have one, remember your National Trust for Scotland membership card, or National Trust Card which is recognised in Scotland.

Refer to the blue numbers on the map on page 8 for directions.

Take the B9006 from Inverness to

,(Page 1 for details). We suggest youallow 2-3 hours to take in all that the NationalTrust for Scotland has included in this newlypresented visitor experience (2008) A visit totheatmosphericbattlefieldis a must.

Turn right out of Culloden car parkonto the B9006 for about 400m, turn right on to the B851 go straight acrossthe first cross roads for about a mile. You will see signs to

Free Entry. Clava are a uniquegroup of tombs concentrated in northernInverness-shire. These are over 4,000years old. In this group there are excellentexamples of ring and passage cairns.There are good explanation plaque on thesite to explain everything in detail.

C u ll o de n B a tt l e fi e ld a n d V i si t or

Centre

Balnuaran of

Clava.

On leaving, turn right onto B9006 and drive for about 7miles to thecrossroads, turn right ontoB9090 following signs to

(Page 1 ford e t ai l s ). T h i s u n iq u emedieval castle with its towerand drawbridge still intact,allow a couple of hours here,(a good place to have aleisurelylunch).

After Cawdor Castle, go back to B9090 and turn right forabout 6miles until you reach Auldearn, follow signs for A96,through village. Turn right onto A90for about 3miles and followsigns to (see page 1). This is a very diff erentproperty run by the National Trust for Scotland, with woodlandwalk, children's adventure playground and picnic area. Returnto Inverness along A96.

Cawdor Castle

Brodie Castle.

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We have put together a great day trip of about 10 route north of Inverness which take you to some superb places to visit, from one ofScotlands bestdistilleries, throughfabulous Highlandscenery withgreat views to theFalls of Shin, Mohamed Al Fayed of Harrods famesHighland project whichhas a lotof support from thelocals in thearea . The routethentakesyou back alongthe coast to Dornochwhere Madonna marriedGuyRitchie,on to Invergordonthe scene of the 1st World War naval mutiny, and then back to Inverness.

0 mile circular

home to todays ocean going cruise liners

Refer to the purple numbers on the map on page 8 for directions.Head northfromInvernessalong theA9, over the

Kessoch Bridge, for about 16 miles to Alness. Turninto Alness on the B9176, drive through the town,followingthe signs for Invergordon. On the outskirts ofAlness you will come to (See page1 forfull details). This is a recommended visit showingthe distilling process, producing a top quality ScottishMaltWhisky.

DalmoreDistillery

Turnleft as youleave thedistillerythrough Alness to the B9176 headingtowards Bonar Bridge and theDornoch Firth. This road will take overhigh moorland before descendingdown theDornochFirth. Youwill find a

long lay-by which we recommend youpull in to, to take in the spectacularview over thefirth, then descenddowntoBonar Bridge,follow signsto Falls ofShin.

(seepage 1) - a very popular attraction in theScottish Highlands where you get thechance to watch the wild Atlantic salmonleap the falls. The salmon start their runas the waters warm from the end of Aprilthrough to the end of November. Theyleap to avoid the rush of water throughthe falls as they strive to get to theirspawning grounds and place of birth atthe headwaters of the River Shin and its

tributaries. It is an incredible spectaclethat should be witnessed at first hand tobe believed! From the car park at thevisitor centre to the falls is about onehundredyards, along somewide but nottoodeep steps.

At the (see page 1) youcanenjoya goodcappuccinoas well asatasty lunch. The shop stocks many Harrods goods. There is a generouslysizedplaying area forthe children.

- Usingthe Visitor Centre as your base, youcan access a number of woodlandwalks suitable for all abilities, throughmixed conifer woodlands, as well aspicturesque views of Achany Glen, the

RiverShinandtheFallsof Shin.

thistime following the A949 around thenorth shore of the Dornoch Firth to theA9, turn north for about 1 mile to rejointheA949 for2 mlsto Dornoch.

Falls of Shin & Salmon Leap

Visitor Centre

Falls of Shin Forest Walks

Nowhead back to Bonar Bridge,

Here the summer cruise-liners berth,(Tel:01349 852308 for cruise liner info) in the heart of the town the pier is avery short walk from thetown centre.Donot miss thesuperb

on the side of buildingsproduced by the

. Each mural is carefullyselected after consultation with thetownsfolk and the building owner. Abooklet explaining the murals can bepurchased fromlocalshops.

Invergordon

MuralsInvergordon Off the

Wall Group

Dornoch hit the world headlineswhen Madonna chose this idyllicsetting for her marriage to GuyRitchie, thefather of her sonRocco,w ho w as C hr i st e ne d i n t heCathedral the evening before thewedding.

Dornoch boasts somefine buildingsincluding Scotlands smallestCathedral built by the Bishop ofCaithness in 1224 paying for it

himself. There is also a bishop's palace(now a hotel), courthouse and old town jail. Sandstone cottages and townhouses line its peaceful streets and

lanes. Dornoch has some excellentdescriptive plaques that helpyou unravelthepast, as well as theHistory Links Trailwhich takes you through the streets andnearbycountryside.

LeavingDornoch retracing therouteto the A9 head south towards Inverness,

taking the turning to Invergordon.

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A hidden treasure, a delightful museumis an award-winning museum dedicated to

the Picts and to displaying and interpreting thestunning examples of their sculptural art found inRosemarkie. An annual exhibition is also held(for 2010/11 this will be about the life and work oflocal antiquarian Dr. Wm. MacLean) and there isa museum shop which stocks high quality giftswith Celtic and local themes. There are activitiesfor childrenand videos to watch aswellas a suiteof interactive computerp r o g r a m m e s .

(Wheelchair access to groundfloor only). 6 March to 25 April, Sat and Sun2pm-4pm, Easter 2 to 11 April daily 2pm-4.30pm 1May 31 Oct Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 2pm-4.30pm6 Nov 5 Dec Sat and Sun 2-4pm

Groam

House

ADMISSION IS FREEOpen:

Tel:01381 620961E m a i l : c u r a t o r @ g r o a m h o u s e . o r g . u kwww.groamhouse.org.uk IV108UF.

8/8/2019 inverness

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After visiting the Cairn you have a choice,you can turn left and follow the A831 for about18miles, mainly along the bottom of Strathglassor turn right back for about 7 miles turning leftonto the A833, which takes you over somepicturesque rugged Thisphotographon the right is burning heather on thehigh moor for the grouse. Burning the oldheather, allows for new growth which is so

important for the grouse.

Visiting Beauly turn back along the A862 following yourroute (about 3miles) until you see signs for(see page 1) well worth a visit, Seehow the Fraser's make theirwine fromwildflowers, fruitsand tree sap.

Highland landscape.

Moniack Castle,

Continue tothe A862followsigns toBeauly, where you might liketo havealunch, before visiting .BeaulyPriory Foundedin 1230, it became a Cistercian home around1510. The church was roofless in 1633, thestone is said to have been used by Cromwellto build a fort in Inverness in 1650. A plaquetells ofMaryQueen of Scotsvisit here in1564and her travels in the Highlands. Descriptiveplaques point out all the points of interest.

daily. Free admission.Open

After visiting Moniack Castle retraceyour steps back to the A862, turn righttowards Inverness. You will come to thevillage of Kirkhill, in it centre is proud toserve unashamedly Scottish Cuisine. A good place to stopfor a meal or a cup of tea or coffee. (Page 2 for full details).C ti A862 t I

The Old North Inn

Drive out of Inverness onto the A862signposted for Drumnadrochit. This road willtake you along the Nor th Shor e of .The first lay-by is worth stopping at as it hasinformation plaques and plenty of space for youtotakein the history and feelof the World's mostfamous'Monster'Loch.

Continue driving along the A82, you will findfurther lay-bys for you to pull off the road. These

lay-bys give differentviewing anglesof Loch Ness,so be prepared to pull offandenjoythe spectacle (Don'tforget your camera!).

Loch Ness

The Loch Ness Monster.

Corrimony Chambered Cairn.

The first recorded

sighting of the monster was by St Columba in565AD It was notuntil 1933 that the monster became worldfamous as the world newspapers reported thestory. There are a remarkable number of eyewitness accounts that ring true on closeexamination. So keep your eyes on the loch asyou travel around, you never know you may beluckyand spot themonster too.

Turn offthe A82,to theA831 in Drumnadrochit. (Youmightlike to stop andwander around this small village beforeproceeding on the tour.) Drive for about 9

miles on the A831; look out for a sign forGlenUrquart chambered cairn, built about4000 years ago, is encircled by 12standing stones. A particularly clearexample of a prehistoric burial tomb.Good explanation plaque. Open all year.F

Day Tour by car - West of Inverness to Loch Ness and Highland landscape

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This circular tour takes you along Loch Ness, then inland to a number of sites well worth visiting.The route also gives you a true taste of Scottish Highland scenery, as you drive through some dramatic rugged landscapes.

(Approx. 50 miles)

Refer to the green numbers on the map above for directions.

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66

Balnuaranof Clava

Moniack Castle (1)

FortGeorge

Hugh MillersCottage(1)

InvernessAirportMunlochy (7)Clootie Well

BrodieCastle (1)

CawdorCastle (1)

Culloden Battle Field(1)

Groam HouseMuseum (7)

OldNorthInn (2)

Beauly Priory

TheDalmoreDistillery(1)CruiseLiners

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NiggOldChurch

CromartyFerry

Loch Ness

Corrimony Chambered Cairn

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(Purple) Northern day trip

(Blue) Eastern day trip(Green) Western day trip

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,to

,to

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to

Car Tour Routes (See pages 6 & 7)

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TheFallsofShin(1)

Dornoch Firth

Day Tour by car - West of Inverness to Loch Ness and Highland landscape

Dores Inn (2)