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Inverness, a city in the Scottish Highlands  is set in some of the most aesthetically pleasing countryside in the U.K.. In and around the city are many places associated with key moments in the history of Scotland, frequently these places lay witness to an immeasurable amount of violence and human suffering. Of course the city of Inverness has a amazing number of visitor attractions (and the number is continually increasing). In the following paragraphs I discuss three places to visit in Inverness Inverness Museum, Inverness Castle and Beauly Priory:

Beauly Priory

In the Thirteenth century Monks, from the Valliscaulian order, set up a community at Beauly Priory. Sadly no-one can say the accurate date of foundation but it is generally agreed that is was roughly sometime in the year 1230. During that time Sir John Bisset, whose lands were almagamated with the Fraser’s of Lovat, was the landowner and patron of Beauly. Sir John, together with the French monks, are credited with the naming of Beauly, coming from the French for beautiful place (beau lieu). Sadly, the priory became derelict following the Reformation of 1582 and stone from the walls were utilized in the building of other local structures. Today Beauly Priory (ruins) are in the care of Historic Scotland having been handed over to the state in 1913.

Inverness Castle

Throughout the centuries there have been many structures on the site of Inverness Castle, some dating as far back as 1057. The first Inverness Castle was attacked by King Robert I of Scotland, and nearly destroyed. The present castle was constructed and designed , in 1836, by William Burn. The beautiful castle, built of red sandstone, is positioned at the top of a cliff looking down onto the the cathedral on the opposite side and the River Ness. King James I(of Scotland) held parliament at Inverness Castle in the year 1427, and summoned all the Northern Chieftains to be in attendance. Shockingly three of these chieftains were eventually killed for their support of an independent monarchy.

Inverness Museum (and Art Gallery)

Situated in Inverness’s town center is the newly renovated Inverness Museum and Art Gallery which is well worth a visit especially if it is wet and windy weather. Inside the museum you can explore Scottish History and learn about how the Highlands are associated with the rest of the world. You can also find out about the folk of the Highlands, their environment and traditions. There are many different exhibitions featuring, costumes, textiles, archaeology, wildlife, fine arts and crafts.

If you are considering taking a vacation in the UK this year and you plan to spend a few days in Scotland, you may wish to think about spending some time staying in Inverness. Finding Inverness hotel accommodation online is relatively easy as the majority of establishments have their own web site.  Hotels in Inverness, small hotels, guest houses and bed and breakfasts are always superb and the Highlands are well known for hospitality of the highest order, so you can be sure of have a most incredible time.