Ness Islands, Inverness

Ness Islands, Inverness

The Ness Islands, nestled on the River Ness opposite Bught Park, offer a tranquil escape just a short stroll from Inverness city center. This picturesque cluster of islands is connected by elegant Victorian suspension bridges, originally designed by William Dredge in 1853-1854, after earlier bridges were swept away by the flood of 1849. Before the first bridges were built in 1828, access to the islands was limited to boat travel.

Renowned for their natural beauty, the Ness Islands are a popular spot for leisurely walks along the Great Glen Way, where visitors can meander through pathways flanked by towering pines and mature trees. The area is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including bats, otters, and occasionally deer, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. Additionally, a variety of imported tree species adds to the unique charm of the islands.

Families can enjoy amenities like play areas for children and the Ness Islands miniature railway, while all visitors can appreciate artistic touches like carved bench sculptures. A particularly delightful feature is the fallen tree Nessie sculpture, perfect for fun photo opportunities. The islands also offer opportunities to watch fishermen skillfully casting for salmon in the fast-flowing river during the summer months.

Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat, a scenic walk, or a family outing, the Ness Islands provide a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational activities in the heart of Inverness.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Inverness. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

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Ness Islands on Map

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30 m
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Leaflet © OpenStreetMap contributors
Sight Name: Ness Islands
Sight Location: Inverness, Scotland (See walking tours in Inverness)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark

Walking Tours in Inverness, Scotland

Create Your Own Walk in Inverness

Create Your Own Walk in Inverness

Creating your own self-guided walk in Inverness is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Inverness Introduction Walking Tour

Inverness Introduction Walking Tour

Often regarded as the Capital of the Scottish Highlands, Inverness is steeped in history and legend. The name "Inverness" derives from the Scottish Gaelic "Inbhir Nis," which means "mouth of the River Ness," a fitting moniker for a city that thrives along the banks of this scenic waterway.

The Inverness area has been inhabited since 6500 BC, once being a...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.3 Km or 1.4 Miles
Inverness Historical Buildings Walking Tour

Inverness Historical Buildings Walking Tour

Inverness, a city established in the 12th century, boasts an array of historical architecture reflecting its rich and often tumultuous past. Many of its centuries-old buildings are situated along the banks of the River Ness and blend effortlessly with the surrounding landscape.

Undoubtedly, prime among these is the Inverness Castle, perched majestically atop a hill overlooking the city....  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.0 Km or 1.2 Miles