Name: The Royal Highland Hotel
Address: Station Square 18 Academy Street, Inverness
Telephone: 0800 031 8416

Historic Charm Right by the Station

Classic and full of character, The Royal Highland Hotel delivers traditional Scottish hospitality in the heart of Inverness. Just steps from Inverness Rail Station, this grand hotel features a sweeping staircase inspired by the Titanic and offers a warm, welcoming vibe that mixes heritage with comfort. Free parking, two on-site restaurants, and a location perfect for exploring both the city and the Highlands make it a solid choice for a music-filled getaway.

Why Concert-goers love it

Located next to the train station, The Royal Highland is ideal for catching shows across the city or further afield with minimal hassle. Its central location means most major music venues are within walking distance or a short cab ride. The traditional rooms are cosy and quiet, great for winding down post-gig, and the 15:00 check-in allows time to settle in before heading out. Bonus: Inverness Airport is just 15 minutes away, perfect for fans flying in for a must-see show.

Who this Hotel is great for

Groups of friends looking for a central base with local pubs nearby

Solo travelers chasing a dream concert in the Highlands

Couples combining music with a romantic weekend

Fans seeking a quiet retreat after a high-energy night

Budget-conscious music lovers wanting value without sacrificing charm

Food and Drink Options

Fuel up before or after the show at Ash Restaurant, which serves up locally sourced à la carte meals including fresh fish from nearby lochs. Or grab something more casual at the Gallery Café, known for its traditional Scottish fare. While there’s no official 24-hour room service, you’ll find plenty of walkable dining options for a late-night bite. Breakfast is available for those slow, post-concert mornings.

Nightlife Options

While the hotel doesn’t host live music on-site, you’re right in the thick of Inverness’s buzzing pub scene. Dozens of bars and lounges are within walking distance, many offering live folk music or local craft beers. After the show, unwind with a dram nearby or retreat to your plush room for some much-needed rest.

What People Say

“Unbeatable location” – perfect for travelers arriving by train or heading to local venues

“Beautiful old-world charm” – guests love the grand staircase and traditional decor

“Friendly staff and hearty breakfasts” – praised consistently across reviews

“Convenient for exploring the Highlands” – ideal if extending your concert trip into a mini-break

Areas for Improvement

Rooms can vary in layout and size, thanks to the hotel’s charming historical nature—so don’t expect cookie-cutter designs. Some guests mention the décor feels a bit dated, but most agree it adds to the traditional vibe. The 10:30 check-out might feel early after a late night, so plan accordingly.

The Bottom Line

The Royal Highland Hotel is a classic, comfy stay in the heart of Inverness—perfect for concert-goers wanting charm, convenience, and a great night’s sleep after the show.

The Royal Highland Hotel Guest Reviews

Overall Average Score:

Good (3.9 out of 5)

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Superb

Very good

Disappointing

it was ok, just

Liked: the night manager was able to turn of an adjoining rooms extraction fan that was reverberating through the walls into our room
Disliked: bed seemed small, the room was small and dated, the staff told us that they would be able to cater for my wife's dietary allergies ok, however, when questioned about cooking we discovered that foods were cooked in the same oil as foods that were counter to her allergies, needless to say we went elsewhere to eat.

Good

Pleasant

A black mark on an...

Liked: We had planned to incorporate a more expensive stay as a treat for my wife's birthday. The staff were unfriendly and unhelpful. The lift did not work (apparently this had been the case for over a week) and ,as my wife has mobility problems, our trek to the third floor was something of an ordeal. The breakfast was very ordinary and disorganised. This was byfar the worst night stay of our tour (anot cost more than double the price of any of the others
Disliked: Everything. You need a new manager and complete staff retraining

Very good

Liked: Excellent location and helpful staff, and large comfortable and clean rooms on the two occasions I have stayed there
Disliked: Parking not guaranteed, got lucky first time but second time I had to park in a nearby multistorey car park. Breakfast buffet could be improved, ran out of cups one day and staff seemed to struggle to meet demand to keep buffet topped up when it was busy. I was informed they had since purchased more mugs.