Living in Inverness

Reports regularly cite the residents of Inverness as some of the happiest in the country, and for good reason – the city offers a quality of life that’s hard to beat. Weekend skiing during the winter, hiking and mountain biking all year long, and a thriving hospitality and leisure sector are just a few of Inverness’ many appeals. If you think this might be the place for you, read on to find out how much Inverness has to offer its residents.
 

History of Inverness

Inverness has a fascinating history dating back thousands of years. It was originally an important site for the ancient Celtic people, the Picts. Over the centuries, the city witnessed Viking invasions, battles, and the construction of Inverness Castle. One of the significant historical events associated with Inverness is the Battle of Culloden in 1746, which marked the end of the Jacobite uprising. Inverness’ rich history means there are plenty of historic sites to explore, like Inverness Castle (which is currently undergoing a huge regeneration project, set to be complete in 2025), and the fascinating Culloden Battlefield.
 

Culture in Inverness

Inverness boasts a vibrant cultural scene and residents can enjoy a wide range of events, and performances throughout the year. The music scene in the city is fantastic, with festivals and concerts showcasing various genres from traditional Scottish music to contemporary styles. The Eden Court Theatre is a prominent venue for performing arts, featuring plays, musicals, and dance performances.

Additionally, Inverness and its surrounding areas host the traditional Highland Games during the summer. This highly anticipated annual event features athletic competitions, Highland dancing, bagpipe performances, and other cultural activities that celebrate Scottish traditions. The games are a celebration of Scottish culture and heritage, and create a sense of camaraderie and community spirit for locals.

Inverness hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, catering to different interests. The Inverness Music Festival, the Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival, and the Inverness Film Festival are just a few examples of the diverse cultural events that take place in the city.
 

Museums & Galleries in Inverness

Inverness is home to a variety of museums and galleries, providing enriching experiences for those moving to the city. The Inverness Museum and Art Gallery is a must-visit, showcasing diverse exhibitions on local history, art, and culture. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s heritage through artefacts, interactive displays, and art collections. Additionally, residents can explore the contemporary art scene at galleries like the Castle Gallery, which exhibits a curation of works by local and international artists.
 

Food & Drink in Inverness

Inverness and its surrounding areas offer a vibrant and diverse food and drink scene, benefiting from its thriving hospitality sector.

The Mustard Seed Restaurant, located on the banks of the River Ness, invites diners to enjoy Scottish flavours with dishes like Highland venison and fresh seafood. In the heart of Inverness, The Kitchen Brasserie serves up a modern twist on Scottish dishes using locally sourced ingredients.

Coffee enthusiasts are well catered to in Inverness, with many venues like Velocity Café serving up lovingly crafted drinks and tasty handmade pastries.

There is also a buzzing nightlife scene in Inverness, and the city and its surrounding areas are home to a plethora of drinking joints. Hootananny is one of the city’s most renowned venues, and is known for its live music and vibrant atmosphere. Inverness is also packed with a vast range of charming traditional pubs for residents seeking the quintessential scottish pub experience.
 

Shopping in Inverness

Inverness has a mix of modern retail centres, independent boutiques, and traditional markets, providing pretty much everything a shopper could need. The Eastgate Shopping Centre houses a wide range of well-known brands, fashion retailers, speciality stores, and a food court, offering a convenient one-stop shopping experience.

The city centre features a variety of unique stores selling locally crafted goods, clothing, and artisanal products. The Victorian Market is a treasure trove of independent shops offering a quaint atmosphere and selling everything from handmade crafts to local delicacies.

For those seeking a taste of local produce, the Inverness Farmers’ Market is a must-visit. Held on the first Saturday of each month, it showcases an array of fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, cheeses, baked goods, and more, all sourced from local producers.
 

Outdoor Pursuits & Sports in and around Inverness

Residents of Inverness benefit from the wealth of outdoor pursuits and sports on offer, utilising the stunning natural surroundings of the Scottish Highlands. From hiking and mountaineering in the Cairngorms and Ben Nevis to cycling along scenic routes and challenging mountain biking trails, outdoor enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the region’s rugged landscapes.

In winter, residents can also enjoy the thrill of skiing and snowboarding in the nearby Cairngorm Mountain, which offers excellent slopes and stunning panoramic views.

The area’s abundant waterways, including Loch Ness and the River Ness, provide opportunities for water sports like kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. Golf enthusiasts can tee off at world-class courses like Cabot Highlands, while wildlife enthusiasts can indulge in birdwatching, dolphin spotting, and wildlife tours to encounter fascinating creatures in their natural habitats.

With its diverse range of outdoor activities, Inverness offers residents a remarkable opportunity to embrace an adventurous and fulfilling outdoor lifestyle in one of the most breathtaking landscapes in the UK.
 

Transport Links to and from Inverness

Getting around Inverness is convenient and accessible, thanks to its well-connected road system and public transport network. The city is served by major roads, including the A9 and A96, allowing easy access to other parts of Scotland. Inverness also benefits from a reliable bus service operated by Stagecoach, offering comprehensive coverage within the city and connecting nearby towns and villages.

For those preferring sustainable transportation, Inverness features a network of cycling routes and pedestrian-friendly pathways, making it easy to navigate the city on foot or by bike.

Despite having a relatively remote location, Inverness is pretty well connected to the rest of the country and the world. Inverness airport offers direct flights to many major cities in both the UK and Europe, and Inverness Railway Station provides direct train connections to various destinations, including the new Caledonian Sleeper Train which travels all the way down to London.
 

Economy & Job Market in Inverness

Inverness boasts a thriving economy and a favourable job market, making it an appealing destination for those considering a move. The city serves as a major economic hub in the Highlands, with diverse industries contributing to its growth. Key sectors include tourism, hospitality, healthcare, education, professional services, and renewable energy.

The tourism industry, in particular, plays a significant role within the city’s economy, due to Inverness’s proximity to stunning natural landscapes, historic sites, and renowned attractions like Loch Ness. This sector offers employment opportunities in hotels, restaurants, tour companies, and related services.

Additionally, the city is home to a growing number of technology and digital companies, further enhancing its economic profile and creating job prospects in the IT sector. The job market in Inverness is generally robust, with a range of vacancies available across various sectors.

With a buoyant economy and a diverse range of employment opportunities, Inverness provides a promising landscape for individuals looking to build their careers and establish a fulfilling life in the Highlands.
 

Schools & Education in Inverness

Inverness offers a range of schools and educational opportunities, making it an attractive location for families considering a move. The city features a mix of primary and secondary schools, many of which have received positive evaluations from Ofsted.

Notable schools include Inverness Royal Academy, a secondary school with an “Excellent” Ofsted rating. Inverness also has a number of fantastic primary schools such as Crown Primary School and Holm Primary School, both of which have received positive ratings from Ofsted, and offer quality education for younger children.

In depth information on the schools in Inverness is available on the Highland Council website, where you can find a directory of all local schools along with their catchment areas and OFSTED reports.