Gay-Friendly Inverness, Scotland

Last month, we welcomed Stefan and Sebastien, a.k.a the Nomadic Boys, to Ness Walk. The couple run a popular LGBT+ travel blog, which aims to inspire others to safely explore countries around the world. They share their own travel experiences and what it’s like to visit different places as a gay couple. During their visit to Scotland, we were delighted to welcome them and it’s great to see they enjoyed their stay, listing us in their top gay-friendly hotels in Inverness!

Here’s a snapshot of what had to say about Ness Walk Hotel:

From the moment we arrived and were greeted warmly by the staff we felt totally at home at Ness Walk. The concierge service made us feel like celebrities as they bring your luggage in when you arrive and take it to your car when you leave.
Nomadic Boys, Inverness Gay Travel Guide

The boys said they particularly enjoyed our Champagne Afternoon Tea. We also helped them to put together an action-packed itinerary during their stay. They went on a thrilling Canoe Safari with In Your Element. We arranged a Bagpipe Lesson for them, here at the hotel, which was lots of fun! Another real highlight was a bespoke tour with Gavin from Invergordon Tours. Gavin knows all the best places to visit around the Highlands, from big attractions to hidden gems, and he tailored a private tour just for them.

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Gay Travel in the Scottish Highlands

Scotland is known as one of the safest places to visit for LGBT+ travellers. We are a very diverse and inclusive nation. And Inverness is a warm and open city. A wonderful place to base yourself for exploring the magnificent Scottish Highlands.

Although we don’t have any specific gay bars and clubs in Inverness, the nightlife here is extremely welcoming. Great local venues include Hootenanny, Gellions Bar and Ironworks, which all host live music for a fantastic night out. Also, Eden Court Theatre and Cinema is just around the corner, hosting a programme of live shows and entertainment throughout the year. Check out our upcoming theatre breaks.

Inverness has an array of city centre restaurants and shops. Our own Torrish Restaurant is the perfect place to start, which offers a luxury dining experience, with cocktails and canapes, afternoon teas, sumptuous lunches and à la carte dinners. Pick up some gifts and souvenirs at the Victorian Market, visit Eastgate Shopping Centre for high street names, or get lost in a book at the famous Leakey’s Bookshop.

There are so many brilliant things to see and do around Inverness, from exploring Scottish history to thrilling outdoor activities. Top places to visit in the city include Inverness Castle Viewpoint, Inverness Museum and Art Gallery and the peaceful Ness Islands on the River Ness. In the surrounding area, there are fantastic Highland walks and historic attractions, such as the Clava Cairns and Culloden Battlefield. Loch Ness is right on our doorstep, and you must fit in a Boat Trip during your stay. Find more things to do and suggested itineraries in our Highlands Guide.

Highland Pride events

Highland Pride is an organisation that aims to preserve and protect the health and welfare of LGBT+ people in the Highlands, through a social community. They run regular gatherings, workshops, walks and meet-ups. Along with Proud Ness, a large-scale event and parade in Inverness, which brings together thousands of people to celebrate Pride each summer. Take a look at their Facebook page for a list of upcoming events.