Ness Islands, Inverness

Island and Walk in Inverness

CC BY-SA 2.0 / djmacpherson

Ness Islands in Inverness is a small riverside walking area made up of wooded islands in the River Ness, linked by footbridges and reached easily from the city centre. It sits near Bught Park and forms part of the Great Glen Way route, so it is often used as a quiet stretch for a short walk rather than a destination that needs a full day.

Visitors notice the tree cover first: tall pines, mature woodland, and shaded paths close to fast-moving water. The bridges give good views in both directions, and the area is also used for casual wildlife watching. It suits people who want an easy outdoor stop in Inverness, especially walkers, families, and anyone looking for a calm break away from the main streets.

History and Significance of the Ness Islands
Things to See and Do in the Ness Islands
How to Get to the Ness Islands
Practical Tips on Visiting the Ness Islands
Where to Stay close to the Ness Islands
Is the Ness Islands Worth Visiting?
FAQs for Visiting the Ness Islands

History and Significance of the Ness Islands

The Ness Islands have long been a natural feature of the River Ness, but their accessibility transformed dramatically in the Victorian era. In the 19th century, a series of iron and steel footbridges were constructed to connect the islands with each other and with both riverbanks. These bridges-beautiful examples of period engineering-opened the area for recreation and strolling, reflecting Victorian enthusiasm for public parks and riverside promenades.

Over time, the islands became a beloved destination for Inverness residents. Their mixture of dense woodland, vantage points over flowing water, and proximity to the city centre ensured they remained an enduring part of the city's character. Today, they form a key section of the riverside walking routes connecting central Inverness with green spaces further south.

Things to See and Do in the Ness Islands

A walk across the islands is the main activity and one that rewards visitors with shifting scenery and tranquil spaces. The paths curve through tall pines and mature trees, offering dappled shade on sunny days and rich autumn colour in the cooler months.

As you wander, you’ll enjoy beautiful views of the River Ness as it flows toward the Moray Firth. Wildlife is often spotted along the route, including herons, ducks, and occasionally red squirrels in the trees.

Nearby landmarks add cultural interest: the striking red-sandstone towers of St Andrew's Cathedral rise above the riverbank, while the modern Eden Court Theatre hosts art exhibitions, performances, and community events. These nearby highlights can easily be combined with a relaxing walk through the islands.

How to Get to the Ness Islands

The nearest airport is Inverness Airport, offering domestic and limited international flights. It lies around 10 miles from the city, with easy onward travel into Inverness. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Inverness on Booking.com.

Inverness Railway Station provides good rail connections from Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen, and London, and the islands are reachable from the station via a pleasant riverside walk. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

Travelling by car is straightforward, with several parking areas near Bught Park, Ness Bank, and the cathedral district, all within walking distance of the islands.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Ness Islands

Suggested tips: Wear comfortable shoes-the paths are easy but can be uneven in places.
Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon for quieter walks and softer light.
Entrance fee: Free
Opening hours: Open access year-round.
Official website: https://www.highlifehighland.co
How long to spend: 30 minutes to 1 hour depending on your walking pace.
Accessibility: Some paths and bridges may be uneven but much of the route is accessible.
Facilities: Toilets and cafés available nearby in Inverness and at adjacent parks.
Photography tip: Capture the Victorian bridges framed by trees with the flowing River Ness beneath.
Guided tours: Generally self-guided, though local nature walks are occasionally offered.
Nearby food options: Riverside cafés, city-centre restaurants, and spots near Eden Court Theatre.

Where to Stay close to the Ness Islands

Riverside accommodations offer the most convenient access. The stylish Glenmoriston Townhouse Hotel sits directly on the riverbank with easy walking access to the islands. For comfort and good amenities, Kingsmills Hotel is a short drive or longer stroll away. Travellers seeking charm and convenience can opt for The Waterside Hotel, perfectly placed beside the river.

Is the Ness Islands Worth Visiting?

Yes-the Ness Islands are a peaceful and scenic riverside escape, beautifully blending nature with gentle walking paths and Victorian charm. Whether you want a relaxing stroll, a moment of quiet beneath the trees, or a pleasant link between city sights and green spaces, the islands are one of the best places to see in Inverness.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.7 (169)

Circle of Wise on the Great Glen Way is an outdoor spot on the Ness Islands popular for riverside walks; visitors praise its bridges, sculptures and pleasant places to sit with friends, and note it's sometimes used for outdoor theatre.

kelly s

2 months ago

"This was a beautiful evening walk along the bridges. Definitely recommend"

barbaraaR1594VP

3 weeks ago

"Beautiful serene peaceful place within easy walk/stroll from the city center. Highly recommend if you want to be in nature."

IanB

3 months ago

"An outdoor space on the Ness Islands occasionally used for outdoor theatre."

Karrst

3 months ago

"Having been told that the Ness Islands can be very busy, we decided to take an early morning walk from our hotel around the islands. In all it tookus about 90 minutes to walk to the cathedral and back to the hotel. The islands are linked to the river banks and each other by elegant Victorian footbridges. all the islands are planted with mature Scots pine, fir, beech and sycamore, giving then a cool and serene atmosphere. The first bridge was builtnin 1828, but unfortunately, they were washed away due to the great flood of 1849. They were then replaced by the unusual cantilever and suspension bridge design we see today an idea that was engineered by James Dredge an English civil engineer, architect and brewer. He was born in Bath and was a brewer by trade for much of his life. He designed over 50 bridges and piers in his later years, such as the Victoria Bridge in Bath in 1836 which he built to transport his beer quicker across the River Avon to the Great Western Railway. Today you can walk across these two bouncy suspension bridges that add to the grandeur of the area. As you wander around the islands there are some local art and sculptures along the paths to look out for. In the central area of the main island there used to be a Victorian pavilion today the central area has seating, perfect for picnics, relaxing and enjoying the sounds of the river. It is a tranquil setting early in the morning. When you cross over to the northern bank look out for the General's well to the left of the bridge. The story goes that General Macintyre lived nearby in Bught House. In order to improve his health, he is said to have drunk from the pool every day as he believed it had health benefits. There was a ladle, which was given by a Kenneth Mackenzie in 1872 before he emigrated to America, attached to the side but it is now long gone. The island are also filled with various wildlife and birds, Grey Herons stalk the shallows for fish, plenty of ducks and other water birds, we potted an otter, but it quickly dived under the bank. Then the silvery flash as a salmon or trout turn in the clear water. There is plenty to watch out for. We continued our stroll along the northern bank or Ness Walk towards Inverness stopping at the Pier Ness Viewpoint which allows some great views along the river and the red-sandstone towers of St Andrew's Cathedral, dating from 1869. At the cathedral, we retraced our steps to the Infirmary Bridge and crossed back to the southern bank to continue our walk back to our hotel on the Great Glen Way. Just off the bridge are some beautiful gardens called Cavell Gardens and one of the most impressive war memorials we encountered on our tour of Scotland. Further along you will see the Forbes Fountain. The Forbes Fountain was gifted to the town and people of Inverness by local benefactor Dr. George Fiddes Forbes of Millburn in 1880. What had stared out as a morning stroll ended with some of the history of Inverness and an appetite for a good breakfast. Since December TripAdvisor has not been adding my contributions so I'm now doing it myself. This Review takes it to 12132. Thank you for reading...."

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Robert Purves

a year ago

"Lovely walk along the river onto Ness Island and back up the other side some great sculptures throughout the walk, the weather certainly helped as itwas a glorious evening..."

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O7447JUjamier

8 months ago

"I really enjoyed my stroll around the Ness Islands. This was an accidental find for me whilst exploring Inverness and was well worth the 15 minutesit took to do the full circle around. I didn’t realise how close you are to the actual river which runs right alongside the path, it flows really quickly! You can do a loop around to make sure you see all the little quirks that have been added. There’s a viewing point right at the one end and plenty of benches scattered around. All of the benches have been carved into unique Celtic patterns and the giant Nessie tree log is a lovely touch. It’s worth seeing for the Circle of Wise and make sure to cross the white bridge over towards the golf course to see the General’s Well - it only adds on another minute or so to the walk for the satisfaction of seeing everything!..."

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FAQs for Visiting the Ness Islands

Only a short walk-typically 10 to 15 minutes from the centre.

Yes, with easy paths suitable for children.

Yes, the islands are always open.

You may spot ducks, herons, and sometimes red squirrels.

Yes, dogs on leads are welcome.

The Ness Islands appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Inverness!

Moira & Andy

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