Getting to Inverness

Despite being located in the far northern reaches of Scotland, Inverness is easy to reach by plane, train and bus. The most convenient access is by air through Inverness Airport, located 14kms east of the city centre. Inverness is also connected by train and bus to the rest of Britain. If you are driving, Inverness lies along the path of several highways.

By car

If you are coming from Edinburgh or Glasgow, take the M9 north to Perth, then get on the Great North Road (A9) which leads to Inverness. The A82 approaches the city from the southwest of the country.

By rail

There are good rail connections from London to Inverness, as well as links from Glasgow and Edinburgh. About six trains a day arrive from Glasgow and Edinburgh, taking 3 hours 30 minutes to reach Inverness. All trains stop at Station Square in the city centre. There is no rail service between the towns within the Great Glen. However, the West Highland line links Fort William to Mallaig, offering a very scenic way to travel in the region.

By bus

The long-distance bus company Scottish Citylink connects Inverness with the central area of the country. From Edinburgh, you can catch connections to the rest of Britain and on into Europe. There is limited service within the Great Glen area itself, but Highland Country Buses operates a few coaches down the Great Glen and around Fort William. Post-buses will help you reach the most remote parts of the Highlands.

By air

All air traffic into Inverness is handled by Inverness Airport. Flights from London, Edinburgh and Glasgow arrive frequently and from these larger air hubs, you can take connecting flights farther abroad. Taxis and buses provide transportation into the city.

Inverness Airport

Inverness Airport is located 14kms east of the city. The small airport mainly handles flights from London, Edinburgh and Glasgow, as well as a few other cities around Britain. British Airways, Easyjet, BMI, Eastern Airways, AerArran and Highland Airways are the main carriers serving Inverness. Most international travellers will have to fly into London first, then make the short connecting flight to Inverness.

The airports single terminal has basic facilities such as an ATM, a restaurant and a few shops. An information desk can be found in the centre of the main concourse (tel: +44 01667 464 000).

Inverness Airport transportation

There arent many transportation choices from the airport to Inverness. Most passengers simply hire a taxi for the short trip to their hotel. Highland Country Buses provides bus service from the airport to Queensgate, Ardesier and Fort George. The bus stop is located immediately outside the terminal. Car hire companies are stationed at the airport. To drive to Inverness, simply follow the signs which direct you straight to the city centre.