Embracing the Overcast Charm of Inverness

Inverness, the Capital of the Highlands, is a city that wears its history on its sleeve. As you wander through its streets, the tales of ancient tribes, Celtic saints, and peculiar prophets echo through the cobblestones. This March weekend, the weather may be overcast, but that only adds to the city’s mysterious allure. With a high cloud cover and a chance of rain, it’s the perfect time to delve into the indoor delights and historical tours that Inverness has to offer.

Start your day with the Inverness History Audio Tour(Inverness History Audio Tour), available in the morning from 00:00 to 01:30. This self-guided audio exploration, led by expert guide Andrew Baxter, takes you on a journey through the myths and legends of Inverness. From the royal seat of a legendary tribe to the trail of a Celtic saint who halted the Loch Ness Monster, this tour is a treasure trove of folklore and history. As you navigate the riverbank and cross the Greig Street Bridge, you’ll encounter tales of peculiar prophets and tiny fairies. The tour also includes stops at St Andrews Cathedral, the Highland House of Fraser, and the Old High Church, among others. One recent review from January 2025 highlights the flexibility of the tour:

Good alternative to go at your own pace - It is clear and easy to follow. It includes information and stories to make the way more interesting. I used it throughout 2 days so as to stop along the way whenever I felt like it. (Reviewed at: 2025-01-10)

Delving into the Dark Side of Inverness

As the day progresses and the skies grow darker, it’s time to explore the more sinister side of Inverness. The Inverness Dark Side Tour(Inverness Dark Side Tour) is a private tour that delves into the brutal history of the Highland Capital. Available throughout the day, this 90-minute tour is perfect for those who want to uncover the tales of public executions, extreme punishments, and lost souls that haunt the city.

Your guide will lead you through the lanes where these dark events took place, sharing stories of heroic knights, precarious standing stones, and burial sites of infamous personalities. The tour includes exterior visits to Inverness Castle, Old High St Stephen’s Church, and Balnain House, among others. One review from November 2024 captures the essence of the tour:

Great tour - We had an amazing walking tour in Inverness. I booked a Halloween Tour. Elaine showed us all the dark chapters of the town, and explained also a lot of Scottish history. Was a really great experience. (Reviewed at: 2024-11-03)

Indoor Delights and Cultural Experiences

With the weather being predominantly overcast and a high likelihood of rain, it’s wise to plan for some indoor activities. Inverness offers a range of cultural experiences that are perfect for a rainy day. The Eden Court Theatre, for instance, is a hub of artistic performances, from plays to concerts, providing a cozy escape from the damp weather.

For those interested in history and literature, a visit to Leakey’s Second-hand Bookshop is a must. Housed in an old church, this bookshop is a haven for book lovers, offering a vast collection of rare and second-hand books. As you browse through the shelves, the smell of old paper and the sound of rain tapping on the windows create a perfect ambiance for a leisurely afternoon.

Inverness is a city that thrives in all weather conditions. Its rich history, combined with its modern cultural offerings, makes it a perfect destination for those looking to explore the past while enjoying the present. So, grab your umbrella, wear your layers, and embrace the overcast charm of Inverness this March weekend.