Inverness City Guide

Try local dishes like haggis and Cullen Skink. There are Indian, Chinese, and Italian restaurants too. Vegan and vegetarian options are growing. Most places close by 9-10 PM.

Nightlife centers on pubs and bars, especially on weekends. A few nightclubs exist mainly downtown.

Growing coffee scene with a mix of independent cafes and chains with quality brews.

Tipping isn't required but appreciated. 10-15% in restaurants if no service charge. Rounding up for taxis is common.

SIM cards are sold at phone shops like Vodafone and EE, or supermarkets. Providers include EE, Vodafone, O2, and Three. ID usually isn't needed for prepaid SIMs.

City is clean with regular waste collection and recycling. Public spaces well maintained.

Limited true 24/7 options. Some supermarkets have long hours but most services close at night.

Supermarkets like Tesco, Asda, Lidl, and Aldi offer international goods. There's also a local fresh market called Victorian Market. Stores open from early morning to late evening, less so on Sundays.

Card payments are accepted almost everywhere, though cash is still okay sometimes.

ATMs are easy to find in the city center from major banks like Bank of Scotland and Royal Bank of Scotland. UK cards usually don't get charged, but international cards might have fees.

Local schools include Inverness Royal Academy and Millburn Academy. There are private schools but few dedicated international ones. Classes are mostly in English.

Small digital nomad community. Few dedicated meetups or co-living, but coworking spaces and local groups help connect.

Plenty of green areas like Ness Islands and Bellfield Park for relaxing and outdoor activities.

Good running paths along the River Ness and in city parks.

Several gyms offer a range of facilities, including council-run leisure centers.

Tennis courts at parks and sports clubs; bookings needed.

Padel is not common but starting to grow.

Several studios offer different styles with drop-in classes and English-speaking teachers.

Offers judo, karate, taekwondo, boxing, and Muay Thai with local schools and gyms.

Cairngorm Mountain ski resort is about an hour's drive. Season runs winter to spring with equipment rental.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing available on local rivers and lochs, mainly in summer.

Surf spots like Lossiemouth are over an hour away. Water is cold and wetsuits are needed year-round.

Diving and snorkeling in the Moray Firth. Marine life includes seals and dolphins. Best in summer.

Raigmore Hospital is the main facility with English-speaking staff. NHS services are good, with private options too. Pharmacies like Boots and LloydsPharmacy are common.

Tap water is safe to drink here.

Parks like Bellfield and Whin Park have playgrounds. Attractions include Inverness Castle and Ness Islands. Cafes and supermarkets cater to families.

Generally welcoming and safe with protections in place. Scene is smaller than in big cities.

Pet-friendly city with many dog-walking spots and vet services.