The scenic Highland city of Inverness is located on the banks of the River Ness in Scotland. It has a beautiful natural landscape of majestic mountains, lochs and forests. As Scotland's most northerly city, Inverness is also home to plenty of history and culture, as well as some great restaurants, entertainment and shopping.
1. Inverness parks and places for a walk on a first date
Inverness is surrounded by plenty of beautiful parks and nature reserves, making it the ideal destination for a romantic first date. The Ness Islands are a great spot to explore, with plenty of trails crisscrossing the area and offering stunning waterfront views. For a more strenuous trek, head to the peak of Craig Phadrig, an Iron Age hillfort, which offers amazing views across the city. Another popular walk is along River Ness itself, where you can enjoy a peaceful stroll with plenty of wildlife watching opportunities.
2. Places for a coffee date in Inverness
If you’re looking for the perfect setting for a coffee date, then Inverness has plenty of choices. The popular Coffee Angel specialises in artisan coffees and has a cosy atmosphere. The nearby Café 1 is perfect if you’re after a more relaxed vibe, while the award-winning Bean Scene is ideal for coffee connoisseurs. There’s also the delightfully quirky Café Pop, which serves up delicious home-made cakes and is a great spot for a first date.
3. Inverness galleries, museums and exhibitions to visit on a date
For a culture-filled date, Inverness has plenty of options, including the city’s own art gallery. With regular exhibitions, the gallery is a great place to explore together, with plenty of works to admire or discuss. If history is more your thing, then a visit to Inverness Castle is a must. Or why not visit the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery, where you can explore over 12,000 objects from the Highlands and Islands, including Pictish stones and WWII artefacts.
4. Live music and entertainment to invite your date to in Inverness
Live music and entertainment options in Inverness are plentiful, including The Ironworks, which hosts a great selection of gigs, from traditional folk music to rock and indie. Or why not catch a show at The Eden Court Theatre, from stand-up comedy to classic dramas and musicals. The city also has a few independent cinemas, including The Phoenix, which screen cult classics and modern blockbusters.
5. Inverness pubs, bars or restaurants for a first date drink or food
For a good evening meal or a drink to cap off a successful first date, Inverness has plenty of choice. The Hootananny is a great spot for a drink and some live music, while the Ness Bank pub serves up classic pub grub. The Maple Restaurant is perfect for a romantic meal and serves a delicious selection of modern Scottish dishes. For more of a gastro experience, The Mustard Seed offers a range of fine dining options in a beautiful setting.
6. Other date ideas to try in Inverness
If you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous, then why not try a seal-watching boat trip from Inverness. You can also take a guided tour of Loch Ness to get up close to the famous monster and explore the surrounding area. Or why not take a bike ride around the city, passing by the historic sites and enjoying the stunning views. Other ideas for a first date include visiting a whisky distillery to learn about Scotland’s native tipple, or even taking a kayaking trip on the River Ness.
