Are you travelling to Inverness by train, then you need a hotel near the station, but not right next door!

The 4 Star Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa, is ideally located only a short walk to the station. A family owned wee gem situated on the banks of the River Ness opposite Inverness Castle. It really is the hotel with the view!

Travelling to Inverness by Train, need a Hotel near the Station?

Getting To and From Inverness by train

Inverness is the capital of the Highlands and as you would expect it has excellent rail connections. You can travel on the Caledonian Sleeper from London, Preston, Crewe. Visit Scotland has prepared a fantastic information page with all the route options. Inverness may be in the Highlands but it can be easily accessed by train, 365 days of the year!

The train to Inverness is spectacular, whichever direction you arrive from. Inverness is surrounded by some of Scotland’s most stunning landscapes. So many different landscapes, the Speyside whisky country to the east, the Highlands to the west and the Cairngorms to the south.

Once you are in Inverness, you can step into the surroundings! Discover the beautiful Black Isle and the Black Isle Brewery, the famous Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle, the stunning Beauly firth to explore, the history of Culloden and the Clava Cairns ( inspiration for Outlander), there is so much to see and do! The city of Inverness itself isn’t short of attractions, read on for more information and ideas for days out when travelling by train. Don’t miss the castle, the museum and art galleries, Eden Court theatre or the botanic gardens

Aberdeen to Inverness– approx 2 hours 15 minutes
Edinburgh to Inverness– approx 3 hours 30 minutes
Glasgow to Inverness– approx 3 hours 20 minutes
Perth to Inverness– approx 2 hours

Travelling by Train, Doesn’t Mean Missing Out

Your Top Days Out & Things to do In Inverness on foot

Here are just a few of the Top Things to Do in Inverness if you are on Foot. All these adventures are perfect for those travelling by train without a Car:

Across the River Ness — Take the train & explore Inverness. Cross the River Ness

Inverness Castle is directly opposite the Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa. This fabulous center was newly opened in 2017and the Castle reopens in 2025 following its extensive renovation. The North Tower of the historic Inverness Castle is now a visitor’s attraction with stunning Castle Viewing Platform. You can get a fantastic view up and down the River Ness and the surrounding town and hills. This fantastic attraction is only a few minutes walk from the train station.
Inverness City Centre – Whether it is for shopping or for visiting the castle, museum or taking a walk round the gardens, it is well worth investigating.
Inverness Museum only minutes from the Palace in the town centre. This is well worth a visit for exploring the Highlands, traditions and craft. As well as up to date Exhibitions featuring Highland life. Easy access by foot or from the train station.
Victorian Market – full of unique owned shops from the local Chocolate Shop, Music Shop and Joke shop plus many more.
Titanic Inverness is an amazing feat in a back garden an interactive and evolving maritime museum. Discover many nautical artefacts, large model ships such as Titanic and submarines made from improvised recycled materials. It is only 15-20 minutes’ walk from city centre Inverness and the train station. One of Trip Advisor’s must visit attractions!
Inverness Botanic Gardens – The Floral Hall, Gardens and Coffee Shop is a unique visitor attraction. It offers a tranquil break amidst beautiful floral displays. Opened in 1993 it has been inspiring local gardeners and visitors from all over the world ever since. Well worth a visit walking distance from the Palace Must visit Botanic Gardens & Floral Hall, Inverness
The Ness Islands, these stunning little islands in the River Ness are the perfect spot for a stroll. Better still as a guest at the Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa you are only 15 minutes walk away. Step out of the hotel, stroll along the river bank and you will come to the Ness Islands. These little wooded gems sit in the middle of the River Ness. They are reached through a series of beautiful Victorian bridges. The islands are an oasis for wildlife and people alike. A lovely wooded habitat, nestled in the river, a hidden escape in the city. At Halloween the islands become the star attraction. People from all over the area and beyond come to experience the Ness Island Halloween show. This fabulous walk also takes you passed many other attractions including Whin Park for the kids, Inverness Botanic Gardens(just past Whin Park) plus Inverness Cathedral. Enjoy a whole day out without the car!
Harry Potter Adventures – You too can have a Harry Potter style adventure. If you like to be independent its not difficult to organise a Harry Potter themed day out! You can take the bus from Inverness to Fort William. Fort William gateway to the West Highland Line!! Take The West Highland Line and you will be following in the footsteps of Harry Potter!! This absolutely gorgeous train route and home of the magnificent Jacobite steam train! You too can whizz you across the Glenfinnan Viaduct, out to the Silver Sands of Morar, the gorgeous back drop of the movie Local Hero and the fishing port of Mallaig. Mallaig offers a variety of ferries nip across to Skye or the small isles.

Take the Train & Explore, Your Top Inverness Tours

You too can visit Loch Ness, go Nessie hunting, see Urquhart Castle & so much more without a car.

360 Inverness Palace Hotel Spa Beastie Boat 1 Image 2 — Beastie Boats on Loch Ness

Here are a few suggestions for visitors travelling by train. Let’s be honest the driver misses the best views.

Happy Tours – Cameron organizes fabulous tours and he will collect you from the reception of the Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa. Local Tours, Historical Walking Tours, Whisky Tours, Tours to the Skye or Orkney, Mountain Bike Hire and Private Guided tours. Cameron offers all sorts of tours around the city and along the riverbank. Run by Cameron the “man in the kilt” 07828 154 683. Cameron will come to you, a great day out in Inverness without a car.
Jacobite Cruises – You can join a Jacobite cruises from Inverness Bus Station only a short walk from the Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa. They they have a small office at the Bus Station, tours can be arranged from the bus station and run every day except for Christmas Day! The Jacobite City Sightseeing tour only runs in the Summer Months. On the water is the finest way to see Loch Ness, nothing compares to a luxury cruise. New in 2019: The Mini Rebellion Tour– you can squeeze more into your day with this new option. A fab cruise down the loch to Urquhart Castle, one hour to take in the majestic ruin and then a return cruise back up the Loch! A great idea for visitors who are limited for time. You can give them a call + 44 1463 233 999. Coming Mid June 2019Jacobite will open their fabulous new visitor center “An Talla”, including café and luxury shopping experience. Just because you don’t have a car doesn’t mean you can explore outside Inverness!
The Beastie Boats by Jacobite, the beastie boat RIB is perfect for an hour of thrills on Loch Ness. The boats leave from south of Dores so you will need to organize a taxi. Robbie will be your host and captain for your exhilarating adventure on Loch Ness. You can leave your valuables safely locked up in the Beastie Building, as you will not want to take them on board. Get all togged up in your bright Blue Dry Suits, life vests, don’t be shy take the glasses Robbie offers you will need them! Ears pinned back he will deliver the safety briefing. The Beastie Boat is new to Loch Ness and many visitors aren’t aware of the option of speeding your way down the vast Loch Ness, taking in some truly special historical sights but at a much more exciting pace. As you gracefully exit the dock prepare yourself to hold on tight and fly across the tops of the waves on Loch Ness!! We flew across the Loch, a few small yelps, screams of excitement and delight as you bounce whizz towards Urquhart Castle! You will want to go back on the Beastie Boat, you will tell your friends, although you may not have too many pictures, it will be one of the highlights of your trip!
Dolphin Watching with Dolphin Spirit – You can set out on a Dolphin Spirit wildlife adventure across the Moray Firth. You can choose from a cruises or Mischief RIB experience perfect for any adventurer.www.dolphinspirit.co.uk/. The Moray Firth is home to dolphins and you may see passing whales. It’s important to understand that the dolphins are wild and unfortunately won’t always appear. However you can increase your chances of seeing these elusive creatures. You’re most likely to spot dolphins on a rising tide as they are able to chase the fish into the channel. You can also take Public Transport form Inverness Bus Station to Chanonry Point for a chance to enjoy Dolphin spotting!

Looking for Your Hotel Near the Train Station

Travelling by Train, the perfect hotel within walking distance of the train station – plus the view!

The Inverness Palace hotel, is family owned and run; it has been welcoming guests for over 40 years. When you choose the Inverness Palace Hotel you’ll find a stylish Inverness city hotel at the heart of the Capital of the Highlands with an excellent reputation for looking after you. The hotel is located on the banks of the River Ness and really is opposite Inverness Castle. The hotel offers a collection of Victorian properties and a modern garden cottage just a few steps from Inverness city centre. Dating back to the 1890’s, the Inverness Palace Hotel presents the period architecture in both properties with a contemporary style. You can learn more about the history of the hotel and see some lovely old images here. An elegant Brasserie, Bar and lounges plus it is the only hotel on the Inverness river side hotel with a superb Leisure Club & Spa (including a pool!)

Remember that you are just a short walk across the River Ness to the bustling shops, Inverness Castle & new viewing platform, Eden Court Theatre and excellent restaurants. So whether you are escaping for a break away or travelling on business, here at the Palace you will enjoy a very warm welcome and the best of highland hospitality. So plan your time here at this Inverness Hotel in a gem of a Highland city.

Discover Inverness & Stay With Us

Stay with us at the Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa, you will enjoy free Wi-fi & free access to the lovely leisure club and swimming pool.

Make sure that you check out our Seasonal Specials for your very best offers, plus see the explore section we created to help our guests get the most out of their stay in Inverness. Book your escape and enjoy your Days Out In Inverness make sure you have fun in the evenings, read our latest blog top things to do in Inverness at night. Remember #bookdirect for your best offers. Just call our reservations team on 01463 22 32 43 or email us at [email protected] and let your adventure begin.

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