Discover Inverness’ rich history with City Sightseeing! The name Inverness comes from the Scottish Gaelic “Inbhir Nis” meaning the mouth of the River Ness. The Burgh of Inverness was granted a Royal Charter by King David of Scotland in the 12th century and has grown steadily ever since. Inverness is renowned for being the administration, distribution and culture centre of Northern Scotland and through the last quarter of the 20th century, was one of the fastest growing towns in Western Europe. This was rewarded by Inverness being granted City status at the millennium. The open top double-decker bus tour gives an insight into the development of the city from the original street between Castle and Kirk, with the oldest building Abertarff House, to the recently completed Highland Archive Centre. Inverness has had 5 castles through the centuries with many famous visitors, not all of them welcome, McBeth, Robert the Bruce, Mary, Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie among them. Visit the many churches including St Andrews Cathedral which is probably one of Iocal architect Dr Alexander Ross’s finest buildings. On the Western outskirts of the city the tour highlights Tomnahurich Hill and the Caledonian Canal, where you can hop off for a Jacobite Cruise on Loch Ness before taking the higher ground for great panoramic views of Kessock Bridge, The Black Isle and the Inverness Firth out to Fort George. The tour introduces the flight of 5 locks at Muirtown, constructed in 1822 by Thomas Telford, to bring the Caledonian Canal to sea level. The final section of the tour takes you by the South side of Inverness Castle to see Flora MacDonald’s statue, the 3 Graces, then along General Wades road by Bellfield Park to Holm Mills shopping village. Relax in Whin Park, stroll by the boating pond and perhaps do a few lengths in the Swimming Pool. There are also sports facilities in the city which is home to the highland team sport of Shinty. You may wish to spend your evening at the recently modernised Eden Court Theatre, situated on the banks of the River Ness. The theatre presents a selection of performances including top plays and live music and also offers a cinema. The Ice Centre will appeal to skaters and hockey players. Maybe you’d like to try your hand at curling, or simply watch the experts from the comfort of the bar which overlooks the Ice Pad. To see the Inverness hop-on hop-off tour's route map, please click here. Please note that Routes/Maps are subject to change without notice. Any changes are beyond our control and no refunds will be offered. For the most up to date Route/Map please always enquire when in resort. Your ticket is valid for 24 hours. Available 10th April until 30th September. Start Point: Bank Street. First Tour: 9:30am. Last Tour: 4:15pm. Duration: 60 minutes. Frequency: 60 minutes. Commentary: English. Disabled access available.