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Inverness

The base for many of our Scotland tours, Inverness lies at the north end of the Great Glen where the River Ness flows into the Moray Firth on the country's east coast. Known as 'the capital of the Highlands', Inverness has been a focal point for all travel, trade and communication through the Highlands for hundreds of years. Believed to have been founded by King David in the 12th century, it is known that successive forts and castles were built in the area at about that time. Yet these were either destroyed by fire or razed to the ground during one of the many conflicts that affected and involved Inverness. The red sandstone castle that stands proudly on the River Ness was built during the 1830s, following a significant period of economic boom in Inverness and the surrounding region. Inverness Castle was designed to house the town courts and administrative buildings.

Exploring historic Inverness
In 1822 the Caledonian Canal was created, and during the latter part of the 19th century the railways began to arrive in Inverness. Links then connected the town with Perth, Aberdeen, Kyle of Lochalsh, Wick and Thurso - lines which remain operational to this day - and the town began to expand rapidly as the Highlands' major transport hub. Today, Inverness is a thriving city with a bustling, modern centre and a multitude of attractions.

As well as the castle, there is the grand St Andrew's Cathedral, which dates back to 1869. The bell still chimes on the hour. There is also the Inverness Museum & Art Gallery, which tells the fascinating story of the Highlands through a range of impressive exhibits. The best way to get acquainted with the city is by taking a stroll along the river, as many of Inverness' charms are apparent here.

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Our customers love our Inverness tours

A Scottish Christmas

4/Jan

Frederick

“Beautiful hotels. A great tour manager, and lovely group of people. Overall a lovely experience.

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Edinburgh, the Highlands and Islands

30 Oct 2024

NEWHART, KENT

“The trip and scenery and food were fantastic. As well as the accommodations! Our guide, Rosie is what really pulled the trip together...she was wonderful!! Improvements: The roads are very winding and too much time on the coaches, sometimes made us out of sorts. Drivers were excellent...

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Highland Adventure

28 Oct 2024

Wendy Langley

“An excellent tour that was well planned with a great itinerary. Our tour guide Garth had a lot of knowledge that he passed on, giving us lots of information and history. He was great.

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Edinburgh, Fort William and The West Highlands

20 Oct 2024

Paul Campbell

“I have had many holidays with GRJ,but this was one of the best. Admittedly,the weather was kind for October. Some of the places we visited were new to me,some I had been to before but I was glad to see them again. Excellent tour manager (Deborah) and friendly travelling companions. Good length of holiday,and...

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The Outer Hebrides and the Highlands

08 Sep 2024

PETER Ramsbottom

“Shame about Skye but overall a great trip. Good Hotels and food

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Safari on Stornoway: A Day of Adventure and Wildlife

14/06/2024 · By Kira Whitaker

Discover how a day on the stunning Isle of Lewis, discovering its wildlife, cuisine and culture, provides a memorable lens into life in the Outer Hebrides.

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Discovering the Beauty of the Scottish Highlands on my Highland Adventure

18/05/2023 · By Sam Preece

Discover the beauty of the Scottish Highlands on a Highland holiday. Plan your escape with Great Rail Journeys and immerse yourself in nature's wonders.

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Following the tracks of Queen Elizabeth

01/06/2022 · By Karen Overend

Follow in the tracks of Queen Elizabeth on a majestic journey with Great Rail Journeys. Read our blog for insights into this fascinating royal adventure.

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Discover Inverness, the 'Gateway to the Highlands'

05/07/2021 · By Katie Shaw

Straddling the mighty River Ness and rubbing shoulders with world-famous Loch Ness, the vibrant Scottish city of Inverness has a whole lot to offer.

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Inverness

5 results matching: Escorted Rail Tours to Inverness

Safari on Stornoway: A Day of Adventure and Wildlife

Discovering the Beauty of the Scottish Highlands on my Highland Adventure

Following the tracks of Queen Elizabeth

Discover Inverness, the 'Gateway to the Highlands'