Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa > River & Castle Views

110 photos

Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa, Worldhotels Distinctive Interior photo

Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa, Worldhotels Distinctive Room photo

Reserve directly with us

up to 10% cheaper

than with Booking.com

Key details

About the Hotel

8 Ness Walk, Inverness, IV3 5NG

Next to the River Ness

Great

8.3

8.5

/10

3.9

4.1

Loved by Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa, Worldhotels Distinctive guests

River views

Comfortable beds

Friendly staff

Good size room

Delicious food

"The swimming pool was amazing, so nice to take a dip."

Mery from Belgium

read full review

"Having use of the pool facilities definitely a bonus although I never had time due to Christmas shopping."

Roslyn M from United Kingdom

read full review

"Room had a beautiful view of the river."

George

read full review

4-star Riverside Hotel & Spa in Inverness

Amenities

The Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa offers a luxury leisure club that includes a 50-foot swimming pool and a brand-new Technogym Wellness System. Additionally, the hotel provides six electric car charging stations and free on-site parking for guests. The stylish reception area and lounge provide distinct views over the River Ness and Inverness Castle.

Rooms

Guests can choose from a variety of room styles including river-view rooms showcasing views of the River Ness and Inverness Castle. The new refurbishment includes stylish bedrooms with unique period features and modern amenities. Options like 'Ten at The Palace' offer townhouse-style accommodations that provide added privacy.

Location

Situated on the banks of the River Ness opposite Inverness Castle, the hotel allows easy access to city-centre attractions. A short stroll brings guests to the upcoming Inverness Castle Experience, Eden Court Theatre, and vibrant shopping areas. Scenic riverside walks are just outside the hotel's doors.

Wellness

The leisure club includes a full range of facilities such as a sauna, steam room, and jacuzzi for relaxing after a busy day. Guests can treat themselves to spa treatments at the new Pretty Woman Spa, which specializes in revitalizing massages and skincare treatments. The Technogym Wellness System offers an interactive approach to fitness with tailored workout options.

Dining

Dining options at the hotel include the newly refurbished Eight on the River restaurant that serves locally inspired cuisine with a view. Guests can also enjoy casual fare at the River Brasserie & Bar, which features Starbucks coffee among its selections. With these dining venues, guests can savor quality dining experiences without leaving the property.

Highlights

Location: Riverside setting opposite Inverness Castle

Rooms: Variety of individually styled accommodations

Wellness: Technogym Wellness System and leisure club

Dining: Eight on the River restaurant with scenic views

Parking: Six electric car charging stations available

Accommodation: Period and contemporary style rooms

Must-do experiences

Stroll along the Caledonian Canal for stunning waterfront views.
Savor Haggis Neeps and Tatties at The Castle Tavern nearby.
Visit the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery for local culture.
Explore the historic ruins of Inverness Castle for great photos.
Take a day trip to Loch Ness and spot Nessie from Urquhart Castle.

Location: Perfect

9.6/10Review score

See hotel location on map

Guest Emotional Experience

Shine on SocialsPicture perfect view

“We had a lovely view of both the castle and the River Ness from our 3rd floor room.”

Kevin from United Kingdom

Away at HomeCozy like home

“The hotel is beautiful, the rooms are pristine and the beds are very comfortable.”

Gemma S

Quiet Nights for Busy DaysSound sleep guaranteed

“Comfy beds had a great sleep with no noise.”

Dionne from United Kingdom

Choose the Room

From cosy doubles to spacious family suites – all with flexible options, breakfast, and exclusive deals.

Classic Single Room
2 persons
17 sq. feet
1 Single bed
Heating
Shower
room details
Cozy Double Room
2 persons
11 sq. feet
1 Double bed
Heating
Shower
room details
Classic Double or Twin Room
2 persons
23 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Bathtub
Heating
room details

Show all rooms

Check Dates & Room Rates

See what's available for your travel dates

September 2026 - September 2027

Sun

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

September 2026

October 2026

November 2026

December 2026

January 2027

February 2027

March 2027

April 2027

May 2027

June 2027

July 2027

August 2027

Choose dates to see prices

Check-in/ Check-out

Amenities

Thoughtfully designed amenities for a comfortable & memorable stay

Facilities: Great

8.6/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
On-site car park
Off-site car park
Handicap parking
Safe deposit box
24-hour reception
Express check-in/ -out
Pets allowed
Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
Wheelchair access
24-hour security
Luggage storage
Locker room
Lift
Barber shop
Coffee shop
Smoke detectors
Electric vehicle charging station
Fire extinguishers
Key access

Sports & Fitness

Fitness centre
Sports trainer

Guest Parking

Electric kettle

Services

Room service
Housekeeping
Laundry
Dry cleaning
Welcome drink

Dining

In-room breakfast
Restaurant
Snack bar
Bar/ Lounge area
Packed lunches
Special diet menus

Business

Business centre
Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Fax/Photocopying

Children

Cots
Children's buffet
Board games
Toys

Facilities for people with disabilities

Toilet for disabled
Bathroom for disabled

Spa & Leisure

Indoor swimming pool
Leisure/ TV room
Spa & wellness centre
Sauna
Steam room
Jacuzzi
Pedicure
Manicure
Waxing
Body scrub
Facial
Treatment room
Body wraps
Back massage
Head massage
Full body massage
Foot massage
Shallow end
Make up services

Room features

Heating
Sitting area
Tea and coffee facilities
Ironing facilities

Bathroom

Free toiletries

Self-catering

Electric kettle

Media

Flat-screen TV
AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

Carpeted floor

Dining Onsite

At the Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa, delightful dining experiences await in the beautifully refurbished settings. Guests can indulge in Scottish cuisine at Eight on the River while enjoying coffee and cocktails at The Brasserie & Bar, all set against the magnificent backdrop of the Scottish Highlands.

Eight on the River
Scottish
Ambiance
Stylish and modern with a family-friendly vibe, overlooking the river.
Key Offerings
Enjoy a selection of vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options alongside traditional Scottish favorites. Breakfast is served with views that invite morning serenity.
Reservation
Not needed
Breakfast: Monday to Friday 07:30 - 09:30; Saturday and Sunday 08:00 - 10:00
The Brasserie & Bar
Cafe and Bar
Ambiance
A modern, inviting space perfect for relaxation and casual gatherings.
Key Offerings
Savor Matthew Algie Coffee paired with fabulous cakes, or explore an enticing new wine menu along with a creative cocktail and gin selection. The location offers a lovely view of the river, ideal for casual drinks or light bites.
Reservation
Not needed
Open throughout the day; hours may vary

Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa, Worldhotels Distinctive Location

8 Ness Walk, Inverness, IV3 5NG

Explore Inverness

Inverness Castle

6 minutes' walk

Historic castle with scenic views over the City and the River Ness, offering charming grounds and a visitor center.

Inverness Museum and Art Gallery

4 minutes' walk

A cultural hub showcasing local heritage and contemporary art, with free admission and rotating exhibitions.

Ness Islands

18 minutes' walk

Serene islands in the River Ness accessible by footbridges, featuring lush greenery and tranquil walking paths.

Inverness Cathedral

3 minutes' walk

Gothic-style cathedral known for its stunning stained glass windows and peaceful atmosphere, open to visitors daily.

Water Sports on Loch Ness

15 minutes' drive

Thrilling water sports such as jet skiing and kayaking available at Loch Ness, with rental services on-site.

Reelig Glen Highland Walk

12 minutes' walk

Scenic walking trails through beautiful woodlands suitable for all fitness levels, ideal for a relaxing outdoor escape.

Prime Steak & Seafood

2 minutes' walk

Contemporary eatery known for succulent steaks and fresh seafood, featuring a cozy atmosphere and seasonal specialties.

The Kitchen Brasserie

3 minutes' walk

Charming brasserie with an emphasis on locally-sourced ingredients, serving a variety of dishes in a vibrant setting.

Tiger On The Wall

2 minutes' walk

Casual dining spot with a diverse menu, renowned for its friendly service and vegetarian-friendly options.

Eden Court Inverness

6 minutes' walk

The largest arts venue in the Highlands, featuring theater, cinema, and live music across multiple genres year-round.

Inverness Ice Centre

20 minutes' walk

Family-friendly ice skating rink offering public sessions, ice hockey games, and a fun atmosphere for all ages.

Getting around

City Centre
Inverness 4 min · 1000 ft
Airports
Inverness (INV) 25 min · 10.3 mi
Train
Inverness Train Station 6 min · 1700 ft
Inverness Railway Station 8 min · 2000 ft
Bus
Bus stop 3 min · 700 ft

Unlock Early-Bird Deals

Grab Exclusive Rates Instantly

Check Rates

Property information and rules

Check-in

from 15:00-23:59

Check-out

until 11 am

Guest Parking

Public parking is possible on site at true.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.

Breakfast

You can start your day with a full breakfast, which costs GBP 14.95 per person.

Children & extra beds

There are no cots provided in a room.

Pets

Pets are allowed on request.

Languages

Spanish, Polish

Year renovated:

2012

Number of floors:

Number of rooms:

126

Former name

best western inverness palace hotel & spa

Guest Ratings & Reviews

Real Guest Experiences & Ratings

Review summary

Based on recent reviews

Guests consistently praise the Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa's superb central location, placing it within easy walking distance of shops and restaurants, and directly across from Inverness Castle with amazing views. Many appreciate the spacious and comfortable rooms, some with river views, noting the very comfy beds. The leisure facilities, including the swimming pool and sauna, are frequently highlighted as a perfect way to relax, although a few guests have found the rooms allocated to be smaller than expected.

Show moreShow less

Review score

Based on 1347 verified reviews

8.1 /10

Great

79 %

Recommend

Location

9.6/10

Comfort

8.9/10

Breakfast

7.4/10

Paid Wi-Fi

7.8/10

Pros

Central location

Helpful staff

Spa facilities

Cons

Chilly changing area

Outdated bathroom

Small room

Mike from United Kingdom

Single

Classic Double or Twin Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: February 09, 2026

7/10

reasonable stay

central location helpful staff tea facilities small room low pressure crowded breakfast

the hotel is quite well located near the river. the staff were generally helpful, especially when i needed directions. my room was clean and had tea and coffee making facilities.

the room was not so big and felt a little dated. the bathroom had a small shower with low water pressure. breakfast got pretty crowded and noisy.

0 Helpful

Fred from United Kingdom

Couple

River View Double or Twin Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 12, 2025

9.0/10

Excellent stay by the river

central location ev charging cute staff

I appreciated the hotel's central location. The EV charging was a convenient addition. Staff were helpful and cute . The river views enhanced the overall experience, I must say.

I found a few minor flaws in the room's finishing touches. There were some scuffs and displaced flooring. These issues detracted slightly from an otherwise excellent experience. It would be good if they improve on that.

Location

9/10

The hotel's location is central, close to main attractions and the river. Access to nearby shops and restaurants is easy, though walking is sometimes needed! but the walk is very enjoyable.

Facilities

8/10

The hotel offers a swimming pool, a steam room, and a sauna. The gym appears well-equipped, promoting a health oriented environment . I find the pool amazing after a long day.

Dining

9/10

The breakfast buffet has a wide selection of options. The restaurant service appears efficient, though the atmosphere is very busy! the coffee machine might take some time to work.

Service

10/10

Staff members are friendly and accommodating! they readily assist with requests. Early check-in and late checkout options were offered. This adds to the convenience for travelers.

0 Helpful

George from United Kingdom

Single

Classic Double or Twin Room

3 nights in October 2025

Reviewed: October 16, 2025

6/10

river location generous breakfast dusty room early morning noise

The location by the river was acceptable. Breakfast was generous.

My room was dusty, and noisy, early morning cleaning caused a disturbance. The noise made rest impossible. I expect better.

0 Helpful

Show more reviews

Questions of the users

About Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa, Worldhotels Distinctive

Is the indoor swimming pool currently open, or are there any restrictions in place due to health guidelines?

12 December 2024

The swimming pool is currently open with enhanced hygiene protocols and physical distancing measures in place as per government regulations.

What amenities do guests have access to during their stay, specifically regarding the swimming pool?

14 January 2025

All guests have complimentary access to the Leisure Club facilities, including the swimming pool, which can be reserved prior to arrival or upon check-in.

Are pets allowed at the hotel, and what are the specific policies for bringing them along?

5 February 2025

Yes, the hotel is pet-friendly, allowing pets with a charge of £15 per night per pet. Dogs are welcome in guest rooms and the lounge area, but not in the restaurant or leisure facilities.

What parking options are available for guests, and are there any costs associated with them?

21 February 2025

The hotel has 22 parking spaces available for free, as well as local on-street parking options. Valet service is currently not available, but remote parking can be arranged.

What time does breakfast start and end on weekends?

1 March 2025

Breakfast is served from 8:00 am to 10:00 am on weekends, ensuring a delightful start to your day.

Can children swim in the pool? If so, are there any age restrictions?

8 March 2025

Children are welcome in the swimming pool, but they must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

Does the hotel have facilities for charging electric vehicles?

15 March 2025

Yes, there are electric vehicle charging stations available on-site, accommodating various charging needs for guests.

Is there a specific check-in and check-out time for guests?

20 March 2025

Check-in is available from 3:00 pm, while check-out is expected by 11:00 am, with late check-out options potentially available for a fee.

What should guests expect in terms of room safety features?

27 March 2025

While rooms do not include personal safes, guests can store valuables securely at the reception desk, which is monitored and remains locked at all times.

Are there any special treatments or facilities for relaxation available at the hotel?

3 April 2025

Yes, the hotel features a luxurious spa and wellness center that offers a range of treatments, including massages and beauty services, for ultimate relaxation during your stay.