River Ness (Abhainn Nis)

If you’re visiting Inverness, you’re all but guaranteed to catch sight of the River Ness. Sightseeing tours of the capital of the Highlands will take you to the riverside, where many prominent landmarks—including Inverness Castle and Inverness Cathedral (St. Andrew’s Cathedral)—can be found.

For a more back-to-nature experience, head to the riverside Whin Park, which features play and picnic areas as well as a boating pond. Or enjoy simple pleasures like walking and picnicking at the picturesque Ness Islands, a series of small and tranquil river islands connected by Victorian-era suspension bridges.

• Inverness’ Ness Bridge offers wonderful views of the river.
• Riverside pathways in Inverness are wheelchair-accessible.
• The River Ness is known for its salmon fishing; visitor permits can be bought from Graham’s Tackle Shop on Castle Street.

The River Ness is very easily accessible for visitors to Inverness. From the train station, it’s just a short walk (5–10 minutes) to the riverfront. The Ness Islands are about a 30-minute walk from the center of Inverness.

Visit in summer when the weather is warm and the days are long. The riverside promenades are ideal for sunset strolls.

Though visitors rush to Loch Ness in search of the fabled Loch Ness Monster, Nessie-hunters should keep an eye on the River Ness too. The earliest sighting of the aquatic creature back in the seventh century was in the River Ness rather than the adjoining loch. Plus, a significant 2019 sighting of a large eel-like creature—captured on film by the Ness District Salmon Fishery Board—was also in the River Ness.