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Your guide to unique Christmas Shopping in Inverness. It’s that time of year and your Christmas stockings need to be filled. Inverness is a perfectly formed little city, with an abundance of unique, boutique wee gems.
Choose Inverness for your 2026 Christmas Shopping trip this year! A top tip for your Christmas shopping break, stay at the 4 Star Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa, it’s central location on the banks of the River Ness, only a short walk to these unique boutique Inverness shops.
Your Guide to Unique Christmas Shopping in Inverness
Unique Inverness Shops
The Castle Gallery, Inverness
Described in the Independent newspaper as ‘one of the best reasons to visit Inverness’ exhibits landscape, figurative and abstract work by artists from Scotland and throughout Britain. You can enjoy pieces by established artists and emerging talent. Exhibitions of contemporary paintings, original prints, sculpture, crafts and designer jewellery.
Upcoming Exhibitions: Alan Bailie, ‘Celebrating the Sgian Dubh’ and jewellery from our Inverness-based silversmith 7th – 29th March 2026. His work is a creative response to living in the beautiful landscape of the Scottish Highlands. He uses traditional methods of chasing silver to create texture and individuality in his pieces which bridge the gap between the traditional and contemporary.
Christmas Mixed Exhibition, from TBC December plus keep an eye on the gallery Facebook page for this year’s festive evening. An opportunity to browse their full selection of handmade gifts & an opportunity to get into the festive spirit!.
This lovely wee gem is only 5 minutes walk from the Inverness Palace Hotel.
Judith Glue Inverness
Judith opened her Inverness shop at 15 Bridge Street near the River Ness in November 2008. The shop sells Judith’s Orkney Knitwear collection, made in the Islands by her skilled Orkney team. Each piece of Judith’s Orkney Knitwear collection is designed by her and individually handmade in Orkney by one of her team of just 6 knitters.
This lovely store also stocks a wide range of other products including a great collection of clothing brands such as Seasalt Masai Mistral Weird Fish Eribe Knitwear Nomads and Ethical Clothing Brands Skunkfunk and Thought plus fantastic handmade items made from Harris Tweed, an array of unique Scottish and Orcadian Gifts including Glenshee Pottery and a fantastic selection of Sheila Fleet Orkney Silver.
They source from all over the Highlands and Islands of Scotland and of course Orkney where we originate from and own Judith Glue and The Real Food Cafe along with our new venture The Storehouse Restaurant with Rooms in Orkney
Judith Glue represents many small Scottish crafters & makers and are always looking for new products especially environmentally friendly and ethical gifts and clothing. The friendly team have shared below a glimpse of their festive shop, they will delighted to welcome you.
The Drawing Room, Inverness
A small family business, with a warm friendly welcome. Since opening in July 2007, this fab store has really become part of the community, an abundance of new friends – customers and suppliers. They stock a variety of gifts, jewellery and home-furnishings especially selected for their quality and style.
The store are very proud to be exclusive stockists in Inverness of Emma Bridgewater Pottery, East of India Gifts and Joma Jewellery. What’s more they are also crafty and talented and make and personalise items to order in the shop.
This lovely wee gem offers a unique selection of gifts, jewellery and home furnishings. They love gorgeous things at the drawing room. The shop is located on Kingsmills road and really is a must visit. See the Drawing Room Facebook page for regular posts and offers. If you are considering some online shopping it is good note that the store offer home delivery in Inverness and use Royal Mail to deliver to rest of UK, ask the store for charges..
Festive Shopping Evening – the Drawing Room will be holding its annual festive shopping evening on TBC November 2026 from 6 to 9pm all the details are on theirfacebook page pop along and enjoy a glass of Prosecco and a mince pie!
Leakey’s Bookshop, Inverness
An institution in Inverness, Scotland’s largest second hand bookshop, with 100,000 selected volumes. This is THE place to try in Inverness if you like books simply browse nobody bothers you!
Leakey’s Bookshop was established in 1979 and has been housed for the last 19 years in the old Gaelic Church (1793). You’ll be amazed as they have been buying books throughout the Highlands for well over 30 years. The ‘shop’ is located at the end of Church Street, one street back from the river, about 7 – 9 minutes walk from the Inverness Palace Hotel.
Isle of Skye Candle, Inverness
Born out of love for Skye and the highlands, passion for natural products and hand craftsmanship. Your family and friends will be wowed by these fab candles.
The Whisky Shop, Inverness
A trip to the Highlands wouldn’t be complete without a wee dram. There are plenty to sample in the Palace Bar. However you may want to take some home!
Victorian Market, Inverness
As the Royal burgh of Inverness grew particularly in the 19th century the town council felt the need for a covered market. This lovely building first opened in 1870, it was destroyed by the great fire of 1889 however the market rose from the ashes and had an elaborate re opening in 1891!
This lovely and historic covered market is located in the heart of the city, just a short walk from the Palace. All the shops, cafes are independent and offer a wide variety of quality products. Enjoy a tasty treat from the Bad Girl Bakery or Moonshine for a siptastic beer, cocktail, fizz lots of lovely drinks to tempt you. A unique historic shopping experience just waiting for you to explore.
An Talla, by Loch Ness
A new shopping an eating experience situated at Dochgarroch Lock on Thomas Telford’s Caledonian Canal. The location is exceptional, with access to the Caledonian Canal footpaths plus the Jacobite Cruises of Loch Ness. A unique setting and shopping experience, the legacy of its surroundings is woven through the shopping experience with fabulous Scottish products, textiles and delicious locally sourced menu.
The Harris Tweed Shop, Inverness
Harris Tweed Isle of Harris and Harris Tweed and Knitwear are the continuation of a family tradition. The original Tweed and Knitwear shop was located in Plocrapool, a small crofting village on Harris which was (and still is) home to the Campbell family. If you love this gorgeous fabric and handcrafted pieces then you don’t have to journey to Harris as they are now available in Inverness. The store is full of festive gifts and Annabele and her team are ready to help!
The Merchant, Inverness
A great place to have a hunt, a wide selection of antiques, retro, vintage and second hand! The merchant offers most items except electricals. Plus the food hall for fresh eggs, chutneys and more. Make sure you check out 38 Greig Street for an eclectic mix of everything!
Unique Ness, Inverness
Gorgeous homeware pieces and accessories, a fabulous selection of bespoke Retro and Vintage home accessories. Unique Ness is a new home interiors destination offering original and distinctive furniture items and soft furnishings which have been expertly and imaginatively created or restored by highly skilled local craftspeople
Christmas Markets & Craft Fairs For You To Explore
In addition to all the fabulous shops located in and around Inverness, we would want you to miss out on some of the local Festive Shopping Fairs. These fabulous shooping fairs allow you to find handcrafted gems, whose products are not only unique but often have limited availabilty.
Exclusively Highland Craft Fair at Eden Court – Fri 15th to Sun 17th November – Early Christmas Craft Fair of local and Scottish producers set in the heart of Inverness. Next to the beautiful River Ness, in the centre of the Highland capital you will find Eden Court, part theatre complex and part stately home; just a short walk from the Palace Hotel & Spa, the venue plays host throughout to two of our Christmas Fairs fondly known as Eden 1 and Eden 2.
On display will be lovingly made crafts; featuring antler inspired gifts, several different art genres; textile, illustrations & prints, wood work, intricate metal work, decadent cushions & throws, ceramics, silk scarves, potions and curios, tweed accessories and gifts.
Glass, silver and polymer jewellery, exquisite wood turning, a variety of bee products, children’s clothes and driftwood & wooden wares. Several ranges of organic & vegan skincare, an assortment of candles, reed diffusers and wax melts – all lovingly handmade in Scotland.
Plus an exciting range of food; a superb array of preserves, honey and sauces, a wide choice of delicious patisseries, fudge and tablet, herb flavoured salts, locally made loose leaf teas and Belgian chocolates. Sample the fresh game, with a host of pies, seaweed chutneys, sausages and cuts on offer, taste the cheeses; too many to name and see the wonderful selection of both seafood and accompanying sauces.
Everyone needs a festive tipple numerous gins, rums, whisky, craft beer, liquors, botanical spirits and locally produced cider will be offering samples so you can be sure of that extra special Christmas treat.
Inverness Wasp Studios Christmas Market – TBCDecember 2026, back for another year is the creative and crafty Inverness Wasp Studios Winter Market. This is your opportunity to browse stacks of unique gift ideas – jewellery, homewares, prints, original paintings, textiles, ceramics – all made by the talented craftspeople based across Scotland.
Christmas Market, Skating & Santa at Inverness Ice Centre on TBC December 2026, split for choice with lots of stalls, plus Santa & Mrs Clauson the ice!! Amrket is open from 10am to 3pm and entry is FREE. Skating with Santa needs to be pre booked, plus there is a Christmas photo area to capture your new Christmas memories!
Cawdor Castle Christmas Market returns this year on Saturday TBC December, 10am to 4pm; we are delighted to share the news that Cawdor Castle Christmas Market is returning in 2026. It is a lovely day out, with fabulous artisan stalls, delicious treats at the Castle cafe; definitely a date for your Christmas calendar; all with the wonderful historic backdrop.
Festive Events & Workshops
Chance to learn a new skill or hone your existing talents at Inverness Botanic Gardens on TBC December or TBC December 2026.
There’s still time to book onto either of these workshops – it’s set to be a great event and will be sure to get you in the Festive spirit. Choose either TBC December Wreath Making 1030 -1230 or for Table Decorations workshop alternatively TBC December 2026 1030 to 1230 at the Inverness Botanic Gardens. Materials and refreshments are included in £60 cost per person.
Brodie Castle Festival of Light, 1st November to TBC– Thursday to Sunday every week from 1st November come and enjoy the magnificent Brodie Castle Festival of Lights. This year’s festival celebrates the 4 elements Earth, Fire, Air and Water showcased along the charming illuminated trail, and the 16th-century castle will be brought to life through projection, light and sound. Brodie Illuminated 2026 runs over four evenings each week (Thursday to Sunday) from Saturday 1 November until Sunday 30 November.
Victorian Market Elf on the Shelf Hunt TBC 2026 from TBC, you won’t want to miss this magical Elf adventure at the Victorian Market. Discover Santa’s little helpers hiding in the shop windows and get into the Christmas spirit. Pick up your entry form in person from Elf HQ within the Market and start your elf hunt! This is a free event as well as all the fun of the hunt submit your entry and perhaps you will WIN the £100 City Centre Gift Card
Top Tips for Festive shopping in Inverness
Shopping for Christmas in Inverness is a delight, Inverness High Street and nearby streets like Castle Street and Academy Street offer an excellent for a mix of major retailers and unique independent shops. Plan your visits to incorporate the many Christmas Markets, Inverness doesn’t have a single market but almost weekly festive shopping markets at venues around Inverness, The Townhouse Christmas Extravaganza, Cawdor Castle Christmas Market 13th & 14ht December, Exclusively Highlands at Eden Court Theatre, with 2 weekends of shopping, with local artisans, for the whole family Inverness Ice Rink Christmas Market and Skating with Santa, get the presents and keep the kids busy.
Stay With Us
There are so many fabulous unique shops in Inverness, unfortunately we couldn’t add them all! We hope that you will choose Inverness for your Christmas shopping escape this year and Book your Winter Escape all perfect for your festive shopping break at the Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa.
You can look forward to a warm highland welcome, we are ideally located on the banks of the River Ness, opposite Inverness castle. Only a few minutes walk to the Castle, the lovely Ness Islands and the vibrant capital of the highlands full of shops, cafes and bars to tempt you.
Make the 4 Star Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa your base, dine and sip your favourite tipple in the Brasserie and Bar! Enjoy car parking, free Wi-Fi and don’t forget after your busy day of shopping you can relax in the pool at the newly refurbished luxury leisure club. See our seasonal specials for a selection of our very best offers. Remember always book direct for your very best offers Call: 01463 22 32 43 or Email and one of our friendly team will be happy to help!
Escape to the Leisure Club and Spa
The Inverness Palace Hotel is a perfect place to relax after a busy day exploring the highlands, take a dip in the swimming pool. book a massage in the Spa or relax those muscles in the steam room and sauna. All of our guests enjoy free access to our Luxury Leisure club. Remember the Palace is the only city centre hotel Inverness to have a pool.
Little Touches of Luxury
Add a little luxury to your getaway and book a Luxury Castle and River View Room. Wake up each morning to a fabulous view and enjoy the beautifully lit Inverness Castle and the Bridge as you draw your curtains in the evening.
Festive Gift Vouchers
There are so many Christmas Vouchers to choose from – make the most of your time at the Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa with your gift voucher. Choose from an overnight stay, afternoon tea, or dining experience.
Christmas Present Monetary Gift Voucher can be exchanged or used in part payment for a variety Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa experiences. Please book in advance and quote your gift voucher number. This gift voucher cannot be used at Pretty Woman Spa. Please note no change will be given from the voucher. It is fixed date voucher and non transferable.
Christmas Present Afternoon Tea Voucher – enjoy your lovely Afternoon Tea with the best view in Inverness overlooking Inverness Castle and the River Ness in the elegant lounge, Eight on the River Restaurant or sophisticated Brasserie! Book in advance to treat yourself and your friends to some great conversation and a chance to catch up over Afternoon Tea at the Inverness Palace.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Does Inverness do a Christmas market?
Yes — Inverness usually has a small but charming Christmas market in the city centre, along with festive events including Skating & Santa at Inverness Ice Centre 2025 Dates TBC, Townhouse Inverness Christmas Market, Cawdor Castle Christmas Market 13th & 14th December 2025, Exclusively Highlands Christmas Craft Fairs at Eden Court Theatre Inverness in November 2025, Wreath Making at the Inverness Botanic Gardens. Inverness is a lovely place to get in the holiday spirit.
Q2. Is Inverness good for shopping?
Definitely! Inverness is the main shopping hub of the Highlands, so you’ll find a mix of high street brands, independent boutiques, and local craft shops. The Eastgate Shopping Centre is great for big-name stores, while places like the historic Victorian Market and independent shops along the River Ness are perfect for unique finds.
Q3. Where’s the best place to go for Christmas shopping?
Yes, year round unique boutique shops in the city centre. For festive shopping in Inverness, try the historic Victorian Market with its twinkling lights and local traders, it’s full of character, perfect for unique gifts and a tasty Food Market for delicious dining. The Exclusively Highlands Eden Court Christmas Fair is another highlight, showcasing local artists and makers. And of course, the Eastgate Shopping Centre is ideal if you’re after high street favourites and want everything under one roof. Plus lots of Festive Christmas Markets including Cawdor Castle, WASPS and the Townhouse Inverness.
Q4. What is the main shopping street in Inverness?
The main shopping street is Inverness High Street, which runs through the city centre. It’s home to a variety of shops, from fashion and beauty to food and gifts. At one end, you’ll find the Eastgate Shopping Centre, and at the other, it connects to the historic Victorian Market. It’s the perfect starting point for exploring the city’s shopping scene.
Images sourced from Castle gallery, Drawing Room, Judith Glue, Leakeys Bookshop, Gordon Bain Photography, Unsplash Photo by Mary Ray INPGC6ntYZU , Courtesy of Ben White DddQHervE04, Courtesy of Freestocks SpP6LqxN0
