Your Ultimate Summer Guide to Inverness

Tailormade Moves/18th June 2025

In the summer, Inverness is the perfect spot in the Highlands to offer outdoor activities and local attractions. While it’s not as busy or flashy as bigger cities, it has its own simple charm with places to walk by the river, historic sites to visit and opportunities to explore nearby nature. If you’re looking for a low-key, relaxed way to enjoy the Highlands during the warmer months, Inverness can be a good base to discover the surrounding area and take in some fun summer days.

Loch ness

Loch Ness is one of Scotland’s most iconic and mysterious destinations — the perfect spot for a summer adventure! Surrounded by breathtaking Highland scenery, this legendary loch offers more than just a chance to spot the elusive Loch Ness Monster (Nessie). Families can enjoy scenic boat tours with live sonar to search for Nessie and explore the interactive Loch Ness Centre. Don’t miss a visit to the dramatic ruins of Urquhart Castle, perched right on the water’s edge — a perfect place for imaginations to run wild. Whether you’re exploring by land or boat, Loch Ness is a magical mix of natural beauty, history and just the right touch of mystery to delight kids and adults alike.

Eden Court – Under Canvas

Eden Court’s Under Canvas is a vibrant summer celebration of music, culture and community, set against the stunning backdrop of the Scottish Highlands. Nestled on the banks of the River Ness, this outdoor festival brings together a rich mix of live music, local talent, storytelling and family-friendly entertainment – all under the cosy charm of stretch tents and twinkling lights. With a bar stocked with local brews and street food vendors serving up delicious bites, Under Canvas is the perfect spot to soak up summer vibes, connect with others and experience the creative spirit of Inverness in full swing. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, it’s a must-do highlight of the Highland summer.

Culloden Battlefield

Exploring Culloden Battlefield on a summer’s day offers a powerful and reflective experience surrounded by beautiful Highland scenery. Start your visit at the Culloden Visitor Centre, where interactive exhibits and a detailed film set the stage for the historic battle of 1746. Afterward, take a self-guided walk across the battlefield itself, following marked trails that lead you past key sites like the Prince’s Cairn and the memorials to the fallen. The open moorland, especially in summer, is peaceful and offers stunning views, making it easy to imagine the events that unfolded here. Don’t forget to bring comfortable shoes, water, and a camera to capture the serene yet moving atmosphere of this important Scottish landmark.

Dolphin watching at Chanonry Point

Chanonry Point, located on the Black Isle, is one of the best places in the UK to watch bottlenose dolphins from land. These dolphins often come very close to shore, especially during the rising tide when they hunt for fish in the strong currents. The best time to visit is between May and August, when sightings are most frequent. Visitors can enjoy impressive views of dolphins leaping from the water, along with other wildlife like seals and seabirds. The nearby Chanonry Point Lighthouse adds to the scenic charm of this popular dolphin-watching spot.

Cycling the Great Glen Way

For the more energetic, renting a bike and cycling parts of the Great Glen Way is a fantastic way to see the Highlands. The route passes through spectacular scenery, including lochs, forests and peaceful villages