Inverness Car Hire

About Inverness

Inverness is a city in the Scottish Highlands and the United Kingdom’s northerly city. The city sits on the banks of the River Ness and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It is the administrative centre of the Highland Council and is considered the capital of the Scottish Highlands. Inverness is close to two important battle sites: the 11th century Battle of Blàir Nam Fèinne against Norway, which took place on Blàr Nam Fèinne, and the 18th century Battle of Culloden. It is also the site of Britain's tallest free-standing structure, Inverness Castle. The city's name refers to its location at the confluence of the River Ness and the Moray Firth. Inverness Cathedral, which dates from the 19th century, is one of the city's landmarks. Inverness is an ideal base for exploring the Scottish Highlands. Inverness is a great place to visit, whether interested in history or nature or simply want to enjoy good food and drink in beautiful surroundings.

Basic info and car hire in Inverness

• Location: Scotland, UK.
• Population: 63,730 (2020)
• Official language: English
• Currency: Pounds Sterling (GBP)
• Weather: The weather in Inverness is usually mild, with average temperatures around 10°C (50°F). However, it can get colder in winter, with lows sometimes falling below freezing. Snow is also not uncommon in Inverness, especially in the higher parts of the city. Summers are generally pleasant, with highs of 20°C (68°F) or more. Rain is common throughout the year, however, so pack your umbrella!
• Internet coverage: Hotels, bars, restaurants and cafes offer Wi-Fi.
• Road conditions: The roads in Inverness are generally in good condition. However, there are some areas where potholes and other damage can be found. It is advisable to take care when driving on these roads. The roads can be slippery and icy in winter, so you should take extra care during these months. Inverness also has several narrow roads, so you should be aware of this when driving through the city.
• Car hire in Inverness : Hiring a car at Inverness Airport with Orbit Car Hire gives you plenty of freedom to get around Inverness and the UK. With a wide range of vehicles to choose from, you can be sure to find the one that suits your needs and gives you the most benefit on your trip.

Driving in Inverness

Inverness is a great place to drive. The roads are generally well maintained and plenty to see and do. Just be aware that Inverness can get very crowded during rush hour, so allow extra time for your journey. Also, be aware of the deer that often cross the road at night. Overall, it is a pleasure to drive around Inverness.

• Age limits: The age limit is between 21 and 25, depending on the car rental agency. Many agencies will either charge a young driver fee if you are under this age or not allow you to rent the car.
• International Driving Permit: Yes, if your driver's license is not identifiable as Driving License, for example, if it is written in a non-Latin alphabet (e.g. Arabic, Chinese, Cyrillic, Japanese).
• Additional papers: 
• Identification (passport), a valid driver's license, and valid proof of insurance. (It is advisable to take out insurance with the car rental company if your policy does not cover you when driving in the UK).
• Additional requirements: Warning triangles, spare wheels and a hands-free kit with hearing aids are required if you are talking on the phone while driving.
• Children in the car: All vehicle occupants must wear a seat belt. Children under twelve years of age or over 5 feet tall may ride in the front passenger seat.
• Driving side of the road: Left.
• Lights: Headlights must be on at all times (day and night).
• General speed limits: 80 mph / 130 km/h on motorways, 49 mph / 80 km/h on main roads outside built-up areas and 31 mph/50 km/h inside built-up areas.
• Parking suggestions: Almost all car parks are metered, and the average price per hour is around GBP 1.90/ € 2.20.

Popular day trips from Inverness

Take a day trip from Inverness. There are many different places to visit and things to do, so you will never be bored. Here are some of the best day trips from Inverness.

Loch Ness
Loch Ness is one of the most famous lakes in the world and is located just outside Inverness. Loch Ness is a freshwater lake in Scotland. Its area is 56 km2 (22 sq mi), making it the second-largest loch in Scotland. Loch Ness is located in the Scottish Highlands at an altitude of about 16 m (52 ft). It is located along the Great Glen Fault, which runs from Inverness to Fort William. The total length of the loch is about 37 km (23 mi), making it one of the largest lochs in the UK by volume of water. Its maximum depth is 230 m (754 ft), making it one of the deepest lakes. Loch Ness is best known for its alleged monster, Nessie. You can take a boat trip across the lake or even go Nessie hunting!

Fort Augustus
Fort Augustus is a village in Scotland, situated on the south shore of Loch Ness. The village was founded in 1715 as a garrison town named after the Duke of Gordon. Today, Fort Augustus is a popular tourist destination. Many visitors come to see the stunning scenery and wildlife of Loch Ness. The area also has several historical sites, including the ruins of Urquhart Castle and the Culloden Battlefield.

The Cairngorms National Park
The Cairngorms National Park is a national park in the Scottish Highlands. The park covers an area of 1,445 sq km. It is the largest national park in the United Kingdom. It is home to various wildlife, including red deer, golden eagles and ospreys. The Cairngorms are a mountain range located within the park. The highest point in the Cairngorms is Ben Macdui, with an altitude of 1,309 m (4,295 ft). Other notable peaks include Braeriach, Derry Cairngorm and Lochnagar.

Brodie Castle
Brodie Castle is located in Moray, Scotland. The castle is the historic seat of the Brodies of the Brodie clan. The castle has been inhabited since the 11th century and is now owned by the National Trust for Scotland. The castle was built in the Scottish Baronial style and is surrounded by parkland designed by Charles McIntosh. The castle has been open to the public since 1882 and is a popular tourist destination.

Fort William
Fort William is home to the country's largest mountain, Ben Nevis. The town is picturesque, with a lively high street, museums and art galleries. There are numerous opportunities for outdoor activities in and around Fort William, including hiking, climbing and mountain biking. The area is a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders in the winter.

These are just a few of the many great day trips from Inverness. There is something for everyone, so go and explore!

What to see in Inverness

There's plenty to see and do in Inverness, including visiting ancient castles, exploring stunning landscapes and enjoying the city's vibrant nightlife. Whether you are looking for history, culture or just a relaxing holiday, there is something for everyone in Inverness, and you will indeed have an unforgettable experience.

Inverness Castle
Inverness Castle is a historic castle with a long and complex history, built and rebuilt several times over the centuries. Today, Inverness Castle is open to the public as a visitor attraction and houses the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery. Inverness Castle is situated on a cliff overlooking the River Ness. The castle grounds offer stunning views of the river and surrounding countryside. Visitors can explore the castle's many rooms and galleries, which feature exhibitions on the history of Inverness and the Highlands. Inverness Castle is open to the public all year round and offers free admission.

Urquhart Castle
Urquhart Castle is a historic site located on the shores of Loch Ness. The castle has a long and complex history, having been built and rebuilt several times over the centuries. The first mention of Urquhart Castle dates back to the early 12th century. At that time, the castle was known as "Urchard". It is believed that the castle was built by Duncan I, King of Scots, although there is no definitive evidence. Over the next few centuries, the castle changed hands several times and was conquered by the English and the Scots. Today, the castle is one of Scotland's most popular tourist attractions and attracts visitors from all over the world.

Culloden Battlefield
Culloden Battlefield is the site of the last battle fought on British soil. The Battle of Culloden was the final confrontation of the Jacobite Rebellion of 1745 and ended in a crushing defeat for the Jacobites. The battlefield is now owned by the National Trust for Scotland and managed by Historic Scotland. It is one of Scotland's most popular tourist attractions and attracts over 200,000 visitors yearly. The Culloden Battlefield Visitor Centre tells the story of the battle and the people who fought in it. The centre also has a café, shop and auditorium where regular talks and events are held. The battlefield itself is now a peaceful place where only the sound of the wind and birdsong breaks the silence. It is impossible to imagine the horror that happened here on that fateful day in 1746. But standing on the battlefield, one cannot help but feel awe for the courage and determination of those who fought and died there.

Fortrose Cathedral
Fortrose Cathedral is a ruined cathedral in the Scottish Highlands. It was built in the 13th century and served as the seat of the Bishop of Ross. The cathedral was damaged by fire in 1693 and has been in ruins.

Beauly Priory Ruin
Beauly Priory was founded in 1230 by the first Lord of Beauly, John Byset. The priory flourished for centuries and played an essential role in the local community. However, after the Reformation in the 16th century, it fell into disrepair and is now a Grade I listed building. Although much of the monastery is now in ruins, the impressive gatehouse and parts of the church still stand and offer a fascinating insight into mediaeval life. Visitors to Beauly can explore the ruins independently or join one of the regular guided tours offered by the Heritage Trust for Scotland.

Where to eat, drink, and party in Inverness

There are many great places to eat and drink in Inverness. Whether you are looking for a casual pub meal or a more upscale restaurant experience, you'll find it here.

Best restaurants and bars in Inverness

Royal Highland Hotel
The oldest hotel in the centre of Inverness, originally the railway company's station hotel, is now the Royal Highland Hotel, over 150 years after it was built. As you enter the foyer of the Royal Highland Hotel, you are greeted by the imposing grand Victorian staircase, which was the model for the staircase of the Titanic. The hotel has been serving good food for over 151 years. The prime location and friendly staff play their part. The renowned Ash Restaurant serves gourmet cuisine, while the more traditional Coffee Lounge and Gallery Deli offer fine patisseries. The talented chefs and enthusiastic, professional team ensure that when you dine at the Royal Highland, you enjoy fresh, local Scottish ingredients for which the Inverness region is so well known. The Royal Highland uses some of the world's finest beef, lamb and game, all naturally reared and matured on the hills and pastures of the Highlands. Shellfish and fish come from the clear waters around the Moray Firth and the ports of the Hebrides, salmon and sea trout from the lochs and rivers of the Highlands. All dishes are prepared with flair and imagination, to order and to the highest standards.

The Riverside Restaurant
A hidden gem! The Riverside Restaurant is one of the newer restaurants in Invernesses and is run by a brother and sister team. After working in the hospitality industry for 12 years, they decided to open their restaurant to express their passion for excellent Scottish food. Lunch includes the chef's homemade soup of the day, soup and a selection of sandwiches with fresh salad and crisps, baguettes with a range of delicious fillings, homemade beef burgers, mac and cheese, scampi and homemade lasagne. Separate dessert menu with a choice of 5 fabulous desserts created by the house chefs. High Teas - Start with toast, jam, marmalade, and a selection of main courses, including Highland mince, salmon, chicken breast, and haddock, followed by homemade shortbread, tablets and scone with tea or coffee. In the early evening, 2 and 3 courses are served. A la carte menu - choice of 5 starters and five main courses, including gluten-free dishes. Separate dessert menu with a choice of 5 fabulous desserts, all created by the house chefs.

The Waterside Hotel
The Waterside Hotel embodies everything that visitors to Inverness expect. Not only is it situated right on the banks of the River Ness, but the fact that the building seems to have stepped out of a fairy tale only adds to the appeal of this property.
Another impressive feature of the Waterside Hotel is the large RefleXions restaurant. It is housed in a conservatory, and small touches like a candlelit dinner are ideal for a romantic evening. Ingredients are sourced from local farms, so guests can be sure they are experiencing an authentic piece of Highland heritage when they visit this restaurant. The restaurant also has a bar offering an extensive wine list and a wealth of delicious cocktails. The Waterside Hotel is one of the busiest hotels in Inverness. It is advisable to book a table at least eight weeks before you want to have a lovely meal at this adventuresome hotel.

Coffee Affair
Inverness is home to many great coffee shops, but one, in particular, stands out from the rest. Coffee Affair is a hidden gem located on Academy Street. This charming cafe has a relaxed and inviting atmosphere, making it the perfect place to enjoy a cup of coffee and some light fare. The menu features a variety of fresh, made-to-order sandwiches, salads, and pastries. And of course, there is a wide selection of speciality coffees and teas to choose from. Whether you're looking for a quick pick-me-up or a leisurely afternoon break, Coffee Affair is the perfect spot.

Cafe 1
Cafe 1 is a cosy little cafe. The cafe has a warm and inviting atmosphere, and the staff are always eager to help. The menu at Cafe 1 offers a wide variety of items, including breakfast items, sandwiches, soups, salads, pastries, and coffees. The cafe also has a large selection of hot and cold teas. There is something for everyone at Cafe 1, and the prices are very reasonable.

Castle Tavern
Castle Tavern is well known for its ghost stories and is said to be haunted by the spirit of a former owner. Visitors can enjoy a meal or a drink in the tavern's atmospheric dining room, decorated with period furniture and paintings. The Castle Tavern was voted ‘Real Ale Pub of the Year’ in 2008 and 2010. Along with serving fine food and drink, the Castle Tavern has a tangible, heartening social buzz, which is more than stimulated by the friendly disposition of its staff.

The Phoenix Ale House
The Phoenix Ale House is a great place to enjoy a delicious meal and an ice-cold beer. The menu features a variety of pub favourites, including fish and chips, bangers and mash, and shepherd's pie. There are also several vegetarian and gluten-free options available. In addition to their excellent food, the Phoenix Ale House also has a great selection of craft beers on tap. Whether you're looking for a light lager or a dark stout, you're sure to find something to quench your thirst.