Things to do in Scottish Highlands
Discover the best attractions and experiences Scottish Highlands has to offer
Historic Monuments
The Highlands are steeped in stories of clans, battles and enduring fortresses.
Urquhart Castle
Ruined fortress on Loch Ness with dramatic views over the water.
Culloden Battlefield
Landscape of the 1746 battle with a visitor centre detailing the sweep of history.
Fort George
Impressive 18th‑century fortress guarding the Moray Firth.
Museums
Learn about local life, legends and craft through intimate Highland collections.
Inverness Museum and Art Gallery
Local history, archaeology and art reflecting life in the Highlands.
Loch Ness Centre & Exhibition
Exhibits on the Loch Ness legend and the natural history of the area.
Highland Folk Museum (Newtonmore)
Open‑air exhibits and recreated historical village scenes.
Religious Monuments
Visit ancient sanctuaries and ecclesiastical ruins scattered across the region.
Elgin Cathedral
Gothic ruins that whisper of medieval devotion in Moray.
Beauly Priory
Ruined priory of medieval origin in the scenic Beauly valley.
Fortrose Cathedral
Remains of a 13th‑century church on the Black Isle.
National & Theme Parks
Outdoor enthusiasts will find sweeping landscapes and wildlife‑rich habitats.
Cairngorms National Park
The UK's largest national park, famed for mountains, lochs and outdoor adventures.
Highland Wildlife Park
A wildlife park near Aviemore featuring native and exotic species.
Neighborhoods
Explore the heart and soul of the Highlands through its towns and quarters.
Inverness City Centre
The bustling capital of the Highlands, with riverside walks and shops.
Aviemore
A lively village hub at the edge of the Cairngorms with outdoor access.
Portree
Isle of Skye’s main town, a colorful harbour and gateway to dramatic coastlines.
Free Things to Do
Nature and history are free to enjoy across the Highlands.
Clava Cairns
Bronze Age burial sites set in a peaceful woodland setting.
Loch Ness Shore Path
Scenic walk along the loch with chances to spot wildlife.
Nairn Beach
Golden sands and gentle seas ideal for a coastal stroll.
Ben Nevis Base Walk
Accessible trails at the foot of Britain’s highest peak.
Gastronomy
Savor hearty Highland fare and world‑famous whiskies from local distilleries.
The Macallan Distillery
Iconic whisky maker offering storied distillation traditions.
Glenfiddich Distillery
Historic distillery known for classic single malts and tours.
Old Pulteney Distillery
Coastal whisky producer famed for maritime influences.
Nightlife
Evenings in the Highlands blend traditional pubs, live music and ceilidh vibes.
Hootananny Inverness
Famed live music venue with a lively traditional scene.
Ceilidh Nights (Highland villages)
Join a local ceilidh for dancing and songs in intimate halls.
Entertainment
The region hosts theatres and historic halls that light up evenings.
Eden Court Theatre (Inverness)
A central venue for plays, cinema and performing arts.
Strathpeffer Pavilion
Historic concert and events venue in a Victorian spa village.
Sports
From mountains to golf courses, the Highlands offer year‑round activity.
Cairngorm Mountain (ski area)
Popular ski and snow activities in winter with stunning scenery.
Royal Dornoch Golf Club
Iconic links course famed among golf enthusiasts.
Laggan Wolftrax
Trail center offering mountain biking in forested terrain.
Off the Track
Unforgettable landscapes and rugged beauty await beyond the crowds.
Old Man of Storr (Isle of Skye)
Iconic pinnacle rock formation with dramatic coastal cliffs.
The Quiraing (Isle of Skye)
Otherworldly landslip terrain offering dramatic hikes.
Neist Point (Isle of Skye)
Scenic lighthouse and rugged coast ideal for sunset views.
Fairy Glen (Portree)
Whimsical, green landscapes featuring spiraling mounds and streams.