Explore Inverness 2016 Guide

1

HOOTANANNY CEILIDH BAR LIVE SCOTTISH MUSIC EVERY NIGHT Scottish Music Pub of the year 2010, Traditional Scottish Food Live Music 7 days a week 9.30pm Ceilidh every Saturday 2.30pm to 4.30pm 67 Church St IV1 1ES Tel:01463 233651 www.hootananny.co.uk (Map Grid: B2) THE TOMATIN DISTILLERY. Local whisky distillery located just south of Inverness, IV13 7YT. 4 star visitor attraction with a range of tours and award winning malts.

3

Open 7 days all year round April to Oct: Mon-Sun 9.30am-5.30pm Nov to March: Mon-Sat 10am-4pm & Sun 12pm-4pm Tel: 01463 248144 www.tomatin.com CULLODEN BATTLEFIELD (NTS).

The battle lines have been redrawn at the Culloden battlefield. With the site restored as closely as possible to that seen on the fateful day in April 1746. Culloden now boasts a visitor centre and an exciting interactive exhibition. Follow characters who were actually involved in the battle, experience the true horror of the battle in the 360 degree immersive film, take a battlefield tour, and watch the daily ‘Living History’ presentations.

Visitor Centre, Restaurant and Shop OPEN: 1 Feb to 31 Mar, 10am-4pm. 1 Apr to 31 May, 9-5.30. 1 Jun to 31 Aug, 9-6. 1 Sep to 31 Oct, 9-5.30. 1 Nov to 23 Dec, 10-4. Battlefield OPEN: All year, daily.

On B9006, 5 miles E of Inverness IV2 5EU. Tel: 01463 796090. www.nts.org.uk.

4

7

LOCH NESS CRUISES AND TOURS BY JACOBITE – The other legend on Loch Ness.

Five star cruises and tours with Loch Ness by Jacobite. Choose from one hour cruises to full day experiences, hear captivating tales surrounding our world-famous monster, visit historic Urquhart Castle and the Caledonian Canal, whilst taking in the majesty of Loch Ness. Tel: 01463 233999 www.jacobite.co.uk (Map Grid D1)

HUGH MILLER BIRTHPLACE COTTAGE AND MUSEUM. Iconic thatched birthplace cottage of the 19th century geologist, writer and social justice campaigner Hugh Miller. In the Georgian building next door, Miller’s story can be discovered. There are fossils to pick up and lives to examine. OPEN: 26th March to 17th April, 12-5pm (daily). 2nd May to 30th Sept, 12-5pm daily. 22 mls NE of Inverness.

IV11 8XA. Tel: 01381 600245. www.nts.org.uk.

9

EDEN COURT THEATRE is one the best art centres in the country with two theatres, two new cinemas, plus two dance and drama studios. The theatre is sited in the grounds of what had been the official residence of the Bishops of Moray. Daily film shows, touring theatre shows include drama, musicals, choral, dance, comedy, talks, special events and regular classes for all ages. We strongly recommend you collect one of their brochures or go online to view What’s On. The Restaurant at Eden Court has its own Head Chef and his team who are dedicated to cooking the very best local produce, at the best possible prices.

Bishops Road, Inverness IV3 5SA Box Office Tel: 01463 234 234 www.eden-court.co.uk (Map Grid Ref: C1)

2

A visit to GLEN ORD DISTILLERY, on the edge of the Black Isle, is a delight. Watch their distillers creating a magical malt whisky. OPEN Jan-Feb: Mon-Sat: 11am4pm. March-Oct: Mon-Sat: 10am-5pm (June-Aug: open to 6pm Mon-Fri). Also Sundays (Jun-Sept): 12noon-5pm.

Nov-Dec: Mon-Sat: 11am-4pm. Christmas & New Year: Open 19th-24th 10am-4pm. 27th-31st Dec: 10am-4pm.

Reopening as normal 3rd January 11am-4pm Muir of Ord, Ross-shire, IV6 7UJ Tel: 01463 872004

5

6

NEW ERA CRUISES Eco-friendly, solarpowered boat trips on the Beauly Firth. Fine scenery plus a good chance to see dolphins, seals, and other wildlife. Up to 8 passengers.

May - September subject to weather and tide. Duration approx. 40 minutes. Fare: £8, child £4. Look for the boat at North Kessock or phone 07732 837216 to arrange a trip. www.spanglefish.com/newera

8

BRODIE CASTLE. This 16th century castle contains fine furniture, porcelain and a major collection of English and Dutch paintings. The estate includes a walled garden, nature trail and adventure playground and picnic area. A tearoom and shop within the castle.

Castle OPEN: 25 Mar to 26 Oct, see website for daily opening times. Last tour 1hr before closing. Grounds OPEN: All year, daily. Off A96, 24 miles E of Inverness.

IV36 2TE. Tel: 01309 641371. www.nts.org.uk.

THE LOCH NESS MONSTER The first recorded sighting of the monster was by St Columba in 565AD It was not until 1933 that the monster became famous as the world newspapers reported the story. There are a remarkable number of eye witness accounts. So keep your eyes peeled, you never know you may be lucky to spot the monster. A82 lay-bys give different viewing angles of Loch Ness, so be prepared to pull off and enjoy the spectacle (Don’t forget your camera!).

Top Scotland car hire deals at locations all over Scotland - www.scotlandscarhire.co.uk

1

Eating Out COFFEE AFFAIR has the very best coffees in the Highlands with its carefully chosen Italian beans. They also offer a great choice of light meals from home made soups & sandwiches with a choice of fillings and cakes. Tel: 01463 709629.

24 Church Street, Inverness, IV1 1QA www.coffee-affair.net (Map Grid: B2)

10

CAFÉ 1 has an excellent reputation built over the last 17 years for high quality modern Scottish cuisine. Only fresh locally sourced produce is used where possible, also home made deserts and ice creams. Friendly professional service.

Café 1 ‘the accent is on good food’. OPEN Lunch 12 noon - 2.30pm. Dinner from 5.00pm.

75 Castle Street. IV2 3EA. Tel:01463 226200 www.cafe1.net (Map Grid: C2) 13

11

2 Post Office Ave, Inverness, IV1 1DN. Tel 01463 237190 or 01463 711525

12

SAMS INDIAN CUISINE offers authentic Indian and Bangladeshi cuisine in a warm and relaxed atmosphere.

Some of Sam’s specials are unique in the local area, giving a taste of authentic Indian with a Highland touch.

Take-away and Home delivery available.

10% discount on all collections. (Quote Explore Inverness to receive discount)

THE WATERFRONT RESTAURANT & BAR. Described as “a gem of a find” on Trip Advisor, the Waterfront has an excellent reputation for its good food and friendliness. With a varied menu consisting of traditional Scottish dishes, steaks, grills and seafood, all food is freshly prepared. Children welcome. OPEN 7 days. Lunch served 12 to 2pm (Sun 12.30pm-5pm) Dinner from 5pm daily. Traditional music every Thurs night. 7071 Huntly Street, IV3 5JN. Tel: 01463 233870 (Map Grid: B1) 15

OPENING HOURS: Monday-Wednesday 12 Noon - 2pm and 5pm - 10:30pm.

Thursday-Sunday 12 Noon - 11pm 77/79 Church Street Inverness IV1 1ES Tel: 01463 713111 or 711400 www.samsindian.com (Map Grid B2)

THE RIVERSIDE RESTAURANT is a small family run restaurant situated along the banks of River Ness. Their restaurant reflects their passion for excellent Scottish Fayre where possible. Dine with friends and family in a relaxed atmosphere with good food and wine.

(Map Grid: B2)

16

LA TORTILLA - TAPAS & WINE BAR. You really should visit this restaurant! A unique local restaurant with an authentic selection of tapas and Spanish cuisine, which includes paellas and Spanish omelettes. OPEN 7 days, July & Aug. 12.00 - 11.30pm. Rest of year, Sun - Thurs 12.00 - 10.30pm. Fri & Sat 12.00 - 11.30pm.

99 Castle street, IV2 3EA. Tel: 01463 709809 www.latortillaasesina.co.uk (Map grid: C2)

NICKY TAM’S, BAR & RESTAURANT Situated on the banks of the River Ness, Nicky Tam’s is a traditional Scottish restaurant and bar, serving a variety of dishes to cater for every ones taste with our locally produced steaks and pub classics.

The bar has a large selection of pure malts, gin and real ales. Tel: 01463 234 308 Ness Bank, Inverness, IV2 4SG (Map Grid: C2)

Taxis

Inverness Taxis, Tel: 01463 222 222 City Taxis, Tel: 01463 222 555 Happy Cabbies, Tel: 01463 717 777

2

Train Times

21

East Coast Trains www.eastcoast.co.uk ScotRail www.scotrail.co.uk National Scotrail Enquiries - 0845 748 4950

14

THE ROYAL HIGHLAND HOTEL, one of Scotland’s oldest and most loved, was originally the Railway Co’s Station Hotel. In late Victorian times it was patronised by Royalty from Britain and abroad. Serving gourmet cuisine at the renowned Ash Restaurant. Cream Teas and Highland Teas served in the Art Gallery Cafe from 12pm to 5pm. Station Square Inverness IV1 1LG. Tel: 01463 251451or 231926 (Map Grid: B3)

LUCKY BOWL (formerly Oriental Choice) The only authentic Chinese Restaurant in the Highlands. Traditional Chinese cuisine at its very best! All food cooked to order by Chinese chefs. OPEN Monday to Sunday.

Lunch 12noon - 2.30pm, Dinner 5pm -11pm. Take Away and Delivery Service Available from 5pm. Tel: 01463 712715 25 Union St, Inverness IV1 1QA (Map Grid: B2)

17

18

FILLING STATION offers a warm welcome, comfortable surroundings and of course fantastic food. Menu highlights include a wide range of wraps, pizzas, burgers, salads and grills, not to mention the ever popular sizzling fajitas. Filling Station’s central location makes it an ideal place to refuel after shopping, sightseeing or stepping off a train. OPEN 9am until late. 8-10 Academy Street.

IV1 1JT Tel: 01463 663 360 (Map Grid: B3)

20

CINNAMON INDIAN RESTAURANT has an excellent reputation for the high standard and consistency of it‘s cuisine served by attentive staff. ‘Best Indian Restaurant in Inverness’, a Trip Advisor comment.

The Restaurant is very spacious, (90 seats) Located in the very heart of Inverness. If you are looking for Sunday lunch or an evening meal, you will find Cinnamon hard to beat.

Their popular

OPEN Summer (May - Sept) - 12noon - late.

Winter (Oct-April) - 12noon - 8.45pm Serving lunches, early evening (pre theatre) and a la carte evening meals.

10 Bank Street. IV1 1QY Tel: 01463 714884.

19

RAJAH INDIAN RESTAURANT The Rajah is the longest established Indian Restaurant in the Highlands (since 1982), providing superior quality food and service to locals and visitors alike. Only using the finest quality ingredients sourced with extreme care by our very experienced team of chefs, giving you the authentic taste of India in the heart of the Highlands. OPEN 12 noon to 11.00pm. Food served all day. www.rajahinverness.com (Map Grid: B2)

Sunday Buffet

(over 35 items) “Eat as much as you like!”

OPENING TIMES Monday to Saturday - 4.30pm to 10.30pm Sunday All Day - 12.30pm to 10.30pm 1b Milburn Road, Opposite Morrisons, Inverness IV2 3PX. Tel:01463 716020 Find us on Facebook (Map Grid: B3)

Airport

Inverness Airport (INV), Dalcross, Inverness, IV2 7JB, Tel: 01667 464000 www.hial.co.uk/inverness-airport

Bus Station

Margaret Street, Inverness, IV1 1LT Tel: 01463 233371 www.stagecoachbus.com

Explore Inverness is part of a network of guides, web sites, and social media that provides local advic

Places To Visit INVERNESS CATHEDRAL. The first new Cathedral built in Britain since the Reformation.

The foundation-stone was laid by the Archbishop of Canterbury, the first official act in Scotland by an English Primate since the start of Presbyterianism.

The cathedral church was consecrated on 29 September 1874. Summer recital programmes and regular services throughout the year. Tea room and shop open Mon to Fri May to Sept . (Map Grid: C2) 23

22

INVERNESS CASTLE. The original 12th century castle was of timber. In 1540, a stone fortification was constructed. In 1562, Alexander Gordon refused entry to Mary Queen of Scots. She captured the castle with the help of the MacKintoshes and Frasers. Alexander Gordon was duly hanged. In 1726, it was enlarged into a government fort, only to be blown up by the Jacobite army in 1746. The present castle was built in 1836. (Map Grid Ref C2)

INVERNESS BOTANIC GARDENS is open all year round. An oasis of calm beauty within walking distance of the bustling city centre. Visit the Tropical house where the plantings are both familiar and spectacular and in the adjoining Cactus house. The locally raised plants demonstrated in the gardens and glasshouses are available to buy from the sales area. Open 7 days. Winter hours: Nov-Mar 10am-4pm. Summer hours: 10am-5pm.

25

24

53

INVERNESS - NESS ISLAND WALK - Follow the red footsteps on the main map along the banks of the River Ness. Allow 1 to 2 hours for the circular walk. Inverness is one of the very few cities in the world where you can literally walk from the city centre along a picturesque river and feel as though you are right in the middle of the countryside.

The River Ness is full of wildlife, just take a moment to look carefully and you may see a seal’s head sticking out of the river water. Also look for dippers, a small black and white bird diving in and out of the river along the river bank. You will see lots of gulls and sea birds & if you are very lucky you may see an otter, especially in the evenings.

Walking upstream you will find Ness Island. The walk will take you past the Castle, churches and gardens. Cross the river and you can visit Bught Park. Close by you will find the Floral Hall - a sub tropical horticultural gem with small waterfalls, fish and a delightful little tea room.

INVERNESS OLD HIGH CHURCH is the oldest church in Inverness. Where it is believed St Columba preached in 565AD. The King gifted this site and the Island of Iona to St Columba. The floor of the sanctuary is of Iona marble. The present church C1772, cost £1450 & seated a congregation of 1860 people. Church records from 1740 show repairs required, as a consequence of the Government forces using the church to house Jacobite prisoners after the battle of Culloden. Those condemned to death were executed in the graveyard. Church Street, Inverness. (Map Ref: B2)

WHIN PARK is the largest outdoor park and children’s play area in Inverness; located just 5 minutes drive from the city centre, Whin Park boasts 4 separate adventure play areas, fun physical play equipment includes slides, swings, rope climbs and climbing structures, plus an ice cream and coffee shop and a picnic area. Access to the park is free (with free parking) and open 365 days a year. www.whinparkinverness.co.uk

26

INVERNESS MUSEUM & ART GALLERY Explore Scottish history and learn how the Highlands are linked with the rest of the world.

Experience Highland contemporary art and crafts, visit the exhibitions and newly refurbished café and shop now with a wider selection of gifts on offer.

Winter opening: November - 19 March, Tues-Fri 12pm-4pm, Sat 11am-4pm. Summer opening: 22 March - 29 October, Tues-Sat 10am-5pm.

28

27

WALKER PARK on the Kingsmills Road is a great place if you have kids who need to run off some energy. Large grass area, a great kids playpark, fenced area for toddlers; only a 10 minute walk from the city centre.

Shop Inverness 29

THE HALL OF NAMES. Hall of names, heraldry and coat of arms. Know the history of your family name, its meaning and origin.

Engraved onto glass, printed on scrolls, embroidered arms, coasters, key rings and much more situated in the clock tower, which is all that remains of the old inverness jail.

2 Bridge Street, Inverness, IV1 1HD Tel: 01463 709937 (Map Grid: 2C)

31

CHISHOLMS HIGHLAND DRESS. A long established kiltmaker, intitially supplying kilts to the military. Today they send kilts all over the world, made on the premises by their master kiltmakers, some of whom have over 40 years experience. Prearranged tours of the kilt workshops are available.

A treasure trove of top quality kilts and accessories.

47/51 Castle Street, IV2 3DU. Tel: 01463 234599 www.kilts.co.uk (Map Grid: C2)

HIGHLAND SOUVENIRS AND GIFTS. The oldest shop in Inverness C1700’s. With the greatest range of Scottish related gifts and souvenirs, tartan tights, fridge magnets, Harris tweed etc. This independent, family run business is fluent in German and Italian and prides itself on offering the very best customer service and satisfaction with tourist information. They offer Euro transactions of any value. OPEN 7 days 9am - 6pm, 9am-10pm June - August.

15 Inglis St, IV1 1HN. Tel: 01463 713475 (Map Grid: B3)

33

CASTLE GALLERY was described in The Independent newspaper as “one of the best reasons to visit Inverness”. It exhibits paintings, sculpture, handmade prints and unique, artist-designed crafts and jewellery from some of the most talented makers in the UK. Its regularly changing exhibitions are staffed by practising artists. OPEN Mon to Sat 9.00am to 5.00pm 43 Castle Street, IV2 3DU Tel:01463 729512 www.castlegallery.co.uk (Map Grid C2) 32

30

Pleasantly located on the banks of the River Ness, the RIVERSIDE GALLERY has probably the widest selection of Fine Art in the Highlands, from C19th Scottish Art through early and late C20th work, to the very latest of contemporary Scottish painting. Well worth a visit. OPEN 9.30am to 5.00pm daily all year (Saturdays to 2.30pm, closed Sundays). 11 Bank St, IV1 1QY. Tel:01463 224781. www.riversidegallery.info (Map Grid: B2)

CALEDONIAN GIFTS AND SOUVENIRS. A family run business offering an eclectic mix of souvenirs & gifts. The best quality off the peg kilts at the cheapest price including accessories. Most of the products are exclusive.

Buy with confidence as they offer a no quibble guarantee. You will find that they are the best value in town. Mountain bike hire from £20.

12 Church St. IV1 1EA Tel: 01463 710664 (Map Grid: B2)

34

CUT FOR 10% OFF DISCOUNT

ce for your visit to Scotland. Find out more at www.explorescotland.net & www.explore-inverness.com

3

4

Colour Key:

Eating Out

Shopping

Places To Visit

Sport & Leisure

B

A

A862 from Beauly

Merkinch Nature Reserve

1

14

Friars Bridge

Waterloo Bridge

Greig St Bridge

53

Post Office

32

16

25

1

11

10

17

Shopping Centre

Taxi Rank

Bus Station

Public Toilets Tourist Information

Railway Station

Parking

13

Map of Inverness

2

N

15

18

33

Library

A9 from the North

20

A9 from the South

4

To Culloden Battlefield

B

A

Caledonian Thistle Stadium

3

Tourist Information - 01463 252401 Police Emergencies - 999 (non -101) Raigmore Hospital - 01463 704000 NHS 24 - 111

5

A82 from Loch Ness

24

T: 01796 470558 E: info@exploreinverness.co.uk Artist: Jim McInyre

Š Copyright Explore Scotland Ltd 2016

7

D

C

1

26

To Whin Park

Bught Park

53

Infirmary Bridge

2

22

21

23

2

19

Inverness Castle

Ness Island Walk

53

Ness Bridge

53

29

12

27

34

31

30

28

3

To Raigmore Hospital

To Walker Park

D

C

Loch Ness - Drumnadrochit - Glen Affric FIDDLER’S HIGHLAND RESTAURANT AND WHISKY BAR... An alive friendly atmosphere and the best of Scottish food: Haggis, Salmon, Venison, Lamb and the Best of Steaks. Surrounded by 600 hundred bottles of Scotland’s Famous Malt Whisky. It has been voted Scotland’s Best Whisky Bar four times, an experience not to miss.OPEN lunch and dinner. Tel: 01456 450678. Drumnadrochit, Loch Ness. IV63 6TX. www.fiddledrum.co.uk

35

35

36

THE BENLEVA HOTEL is over 300 years old with a 400 year Old Hanging Tree at the front door.

The pub sells cask conditioned ales from it’s own Loch Ness Brewery. Traditional pub food with daily specials. The Steak & Ale Pie is made with fresh cask ale, you will taste the difference! Specially made pizza with their own secret ingredients.

OPEN 12 noon ‘till late. Tel: 01456 450 080.

Kilmore Road, Drumnadrochit, IV63 6UH

Fiddler’s Restaurant and Bar

The Benleva Hotel

36

The Hanging Tree

38

Parking Public Toilets Tourist Information Post Office

37

Divach Falls Walk

DIVACH FALLS WALK. This is a short walk through magestic oak woods on the slopes of the burn to the Falls, which makes this a very special area. A signed path off to the right descends through the woods to reach a fenced viewpoint for the falls. The view of the falls is well worth a visit. From the A82 at Drumnadrochit, turn up Balmacaan Road continue along the single track road and follow the signs for Divach.

37

LOCH NESS Ness is the largest body of fresh water in Britain, holding more than all the lakes and reservoirs in England & Wales put together. 380 million years ago the earth’s crust fractured and moved which resulted in the formation of the Great Glen of which Loch Ness is part. 39km long with an average depth of 132m. It is possible to drive right round Loch Ness. Explanatory plaques situated in a lay-by 6.8 miles from Drumnadrochit on A82.

38

CALEDONIAN CANAL - considered by many to be one of the greatest water-ways of the world, a masterpiece of canal engineering, slicing through the lengh of the Great Glen, a massive geological fault line running east to west. The canal runs for for 62mls (100kms) from Inverness to Fort William, a link to a chain of natural lochs. It was constructed

by Thomas Telford and completed in 1822. Enjoy walking or cycling along the tow-paths.

PLODDA FALLS is a sheer drop of over 100ft (30m) in the spectacular surroundings of wellestablished broadleaf and pine forest. Viewing platform above and below the falls. From the car park and picnic tables, there are two waymarked trails, one to the Plodda Falls (1mile). The other, Tweedmouth walk (1.75miles). Situated 6.1 mls from A831 at Cannich village. Follow signs for and through Tomich historic village to falls.

39

FOYERS FALLS. A short walk down the steep gorge leads to a viewpoint across from the falls with an 80ft drop. Well worth the short walk to the view. Continue on the path down the gorge for other way-marked walks in this beautiful area. OPEN all year. Free admission. Car park beside the B852 and coffee shop.

Signposted by the road, 11.2 miles south of Dores on B852.

6

THE HANGING TREE - A fantastic old Spanish Sweet Chestnut tree. The 2nd oldest chestnut tree in the UK (possibly the oldest in Scotland).The tree stands in the grounds of the Old Manse (now the Benleva Hotel) where the clergy could no doubt oversee the hangings!

Nearby is the Kilmore cemetery. Kilmore Road, Drumnadrochit.

40

THE GREAT GLEN WAY a 76 mile route between Inverness and Fort William. The path follows along the natural fault line of the Great Glen. Part of the route is along the towpath of the Caledonian Canal built by Thomas Telford. The walk is well marked and parts of it go through the forest above Loch Ness giving spectacular views. The longest section is from Drumnadrochit to Inverness.

41

See ‘What’s On’ at www.explore-inverness.com

GLEN AFFRIC, from Ath-Breac in Gaelic, meaning dappled ford. This Caledonian Forest Reserve is a magnificent place with a large area of native forest set amongst mountains and lochs. Trees are 200 to 300 years old. Explore the reserve on bike or on foot. Forest roads and paths are open all year. Forest Enterprise.

Entrance to the reserve is 1.2 miles from Cannich village and A831.

/ExploreInverness

@ExploreInverness

Fort Augustus CRUISE LOCH NESS. 45 years of cruising Loch Ness with daily boat trips and cruises at the south end of the Loch. Take a tranquil cruise on the Royal Scot to enjoy the spectacular scenery. Or for the more adventurous take a trip on the inflatable boats (RIBs). You may spot the Loch Ness Monster! OPEN all year. Canal side, Fort Augustus, PH32 4BD. Tel: 01320 366277

42

THE BOTHY BAR & RESTAURANT. Located on the bank beside the first canal lock of The Caledonian Canal from Loch Ness. The Bothy is a 200 year old cottage with a rustic interior serving traditional Scottish food. It has a large conservatory attached to the inside bar, which also serves quality real ales, whiskies etc.

OPEN 7 days 11.00am ‘till late. Tel: 01320 366 710.

Canalside, Fort Augustus, PH32 4AU.

43

CALEDONIAN CANAL MUSEUM is a small venue showing the history of Thomas Telford’s Caledonian Canal from the beginnings to the present day. Use a touch screen computer to explore the local walks and cycle routes. Free admission. OPEN 7 days. April to the End of October 10am - 5.30pm (Closed for lunch between 1.30pm 2pm). Other hours by prior arrangement. Tel: 01320 366493 for information.

FORT AUGUSTUS Originally called Kiliwhimin. It was renamed ‘Fort Augustus’ after the Jacobite Rising of 1715 when General Wade built a fort here. In 1867 the fort was sold to the Lovat family, who passed it to the Benedictine order, who established Fort Augustus Abbey. (No longer an abbey it is now apartments). Thomas Telford built the Caledonian Canal between 1803 and 1822, with a staircase of lochs through the centre of the village. It is now one of the most famous tourist spots in Scotland.

44

Parking Public Toilets Tourist Information Post Office

Caledonian Canal Museum

42 Cruise Loch Ness

44

43 The Bothy Bar and Restaurant

North of Inverness 45

MUNLOCHY CLOOTIE WELL. A healing well dedicated to St Boniface (or Curidan). There is said to have once been a chapel on the site. To have your wish granted, you must spill some water 3 times on the ground, tie a rag torn from your clothes on a nearby tree, make the sign of the cross and then drink from the well. Tradition states that anyone removing a rag will succumb to the misfortunes of the original owner.

On the A832 car park adjacent to the road east of Tore.

SIR ALEXANDER MACKENZIE. Born in Stornoway in the Western Isles. In 1788 he discovered and charted Canada’s longest river ‘Mackenzie River’ 2,500 mls - one of eleven physical features in Canada named after him. In May 1793 he was the first to cross the American continent. His book ‘Voyages’ was a best seller in English and German.

He bought an estate at Avoch for his retirment in Scotland. He is buried in Avoch churchyard.

49

47

INVERGORDON Here the summer cruise-liners berth in the heart of the town. The pier is a very short walk from the town centre. Tel:01349 852308 for cruise liner info.

Do not miss the superb Invergordon Murals on the side of buildings produced by the Invergordon Off the Wall Group.

Each mural is carefully selected after consultation with the townsfolk and the building owner. A booklet explaining the murals can be purchased from local shops.

DOLPHINS AND SEALS OF THE MORAY FIRTH INFORMATION CENTRE. Bottlenose Dolphins are often seen in the Moray Firth. The centre is a great stopping off place with spectacular indoor and outdoor views, great for spotting dolphins. Talks, events, underwater dolphn sounds and shop.

For details of tide times go to www.pol.ac.uk/ ntslf the UK National Tide Gauge Network.

48

46

DOLPHIN WATCHING AT CHANONRY POINT. The point is the best place to watch the Bottlenose Dolphins. The nearby Dolphin and Seal Centre at North Kessock also offers dolphin watching opportunities during the summer. The best time to spot them is from low tide onwards as the tide rises between Mar & Oct. They can often be seen in front of the large ships in the harbour. Chanonry Point is situated East of Fortrose off the A832. IV10 8SE

DORNOCH boasts some fine buildings including Scotland’s smallest Cathedral built by the Bishop of Caithness in 1224 paying for it himself. There is also a Bishop’s palace (now a hotel), courthouse and old town jail. Sandstone cottages and town houses line its peaceful streets and lanes. Dornoch has some excellent descriptive plaques that help you unravel the past, as well as the History Links Trail taking you through the streets and countryside.

To advertise in this guide or online contact info@exploreinverness.co.uk

50

7

Driving Distances From Inverness Dingwall Drumnadrochit Nairn Alness Fort Augustus Aberdeen Perth Dundee Edinburgh Glasgow -

14 miles 15 miles 17 miles 21 miles 34 miles 104 miles 113 miles 138 miles 156 miles 170 miles

50 Dornoch Firth

51

Moray Firth

52 ar

om

New Era Cruises

6

Tomatin Distillery

3

Glen Ord Distillery

5

Munlochy Clootie Well

45

Dolphin Watching

48

Sir Alexander McKenzie

47

Dolphin & Seal Centre

46

Crazy Horse Restaurant

51

McRaes of Scotland

52

Cr

ty

49

rth

Fi

9 Hugh Miller Museum

8

48

47

Brodie Castle

rth

i

Glen Ord Distillery

5

6

F ay

or

45

M

Inverness Airport

46

4

40

See page 6

Visitor Centre & Battlefield

Foyers Falls

3 Tomatin Distillery Glen Affric

41 39 Plodda Falls

See page 7

From Fort William

51

CR A Z Y H O R SE

CRAZY HORSE COFFEE SHOP & RESTAURANT ‘Traditional Highland Hospitality’- in the heart of the local community. Chef’s Daily Specials and Bistro menu, quality ground coffee & specialist teas, home baked cakes, country style soups and local haggis.

OPEN 9.30am-3.30pm Mon-Fri. 10am-2.30pm Sat. Tel: 01349 852030 High Street, Invergordon IV18 ODL On the North Coast 500 route & Pictish Trail - venture off the beaten track (B817) from Dalmore Distillery.

MCRAES OF SCOTLAND. The largest independent Scottish Souvenir Shop in Rossshire, offering a wide selection of Scottish clothing including Cashmere, Tartan Gifts, Silver Jewellery, Local Crafts & much more. OPEN MonFri 9am-4pm. Try their in-house MACKINTOSH TEA ROOM for home baking & a taste of the Highlands. OPEN Mon-Fri 9am-3pm. Tel: 01349 852519. Shore Road, Invergordon, IV18 0ER

52

DINGWALL is one of the smallest chartered burghs in Britian, it was granted its burgh rights by Alexander in 226. Here you will find a wide selection of shops from the intriguing to the supermarket, not to mention an interesting choice of places to enjoy a drink and meal. A recent innovation is the farmers’ market in the pedestrianised High Street on the second Saturday of each month. It is easily accessible from Inverness by train.

ALNESS is located on the Cromarty Firth. The River Averon runs through the town. The town has won acclaim with its Scotland in Bloom awards and is known for its summer floral displays. There is a marked circular walk above the bridge across the River Averon taking you past the golf course on the east bank. You will find tracks through the peaceful Coulhill Woods and south of the bridge the estuary can be reached by both banks.

Top Scotland car hire deals at locations all over Scotland - www.scotlandscarhire.co.uk

8