The History of Inverness – Places to Visit

Inverness is one of the oldest towns in Scotland and the history dates back to 6th century AD, when it was an ancient city where St Columba was meant to have visited King Brude a Pictish King. Inverness means ‘Mouth of the River Ness’ and is known as the capital to the Highlands of Scotland. Similar to Edinburgh this city is not only known as a capital city but  also it has a castle which sits on a cliff overlooking the River Ness in Inverness, Scotland.

Inverness is near a famous battlefield ‘Culloden Moor’ where the battle of Culloden took place. Bonnie Prince Charlie led the Jacobites into battle in April 1746 in a failed attempt against the Duke of Cumberland son of King George II. Over 1200 died that day in less than an hour and the Battle of Culloden is still known today as ‘The Bloody Battle’.

TOP PLACES TO VISIT IN INVERNESS

Culloden Battlefield & Visitor Centre

Today you can still visit Culloden Moor where the Battle of Culloden took place.  The battle lines have been restored to show a true picture of what the battlefield was like on that fateful day. There is an impressive visitor centre with an interesting interactive exhibition, with artefacts and authentic weapons which were found on the battlefield. A great day out for all the family and for fans of the tv show Outlander.

Inverness Castle

Inverness Castle is located next to Highland Apartments by Mansley and both are in such close proximity they share views of the River Ness. Inverness Castle dates back to the 18th century and sits on a previous structure dating back to the 11th century where Macbeth was meant to have murdered King Duncan in the year 1040 as featured in Shakespeare’s tragedy. Today the castle is home to the Sheriff Court and is not open to the public but the castle grounds are definitely worth a visit.

Inverness Museum & Art Gallery

Inverness Museum & Art Gallery is a few minutes walk from Highland Apartments by Mansley and admission is free. The original museum opened in 1881 and displayed Highland and Jacobite collections. The museum was re-located to Castle Wynd in 1963 and in 2006 underwent a £1.3 million refurbishment. Today the museum and art gallery exhibits paintings by famous Scottish artists, Highland memorabilia and archaeology.

Urquhart Castle

Approximately 13 miles south-west of Inverness stands Urquhart Castle which overlooks Loch Ness in the Highlands of Scotland and the views are spectacular. It was a medieval fortress dating back to the 13th century and it’s ruins are now one of the most visited.  The Castle has witnessed some historical events in Scotland’s history.  St Columba was said to have performed miracles here in the 6th century. The castle was embroiled in the ‘Wars of Independence’ and this is where Lords of the Isles fought for power until it was destroyed in the Jacobite Risings. Climb the Grant tower and visit the prison cell that held the legendary Gaelic bard Domhnall Donn. With fantastic views of Loch Ness you might even see ‘Nessie’ the Loch Ness monster!

Accommodation in Inverness

Highland Apartments by Mansley Serviced Apartments, Inverness, are the ideal base in a central location to explore Inverness and the surrounding areas. We want you to have a truly memorable stay so please get in touch if we can assist you further on what to see and do during your visit to Inverness and the Scottish Highlands.