Unique, independent shops in Inverness

10 unique local shops to visit in Inverness

Inverness is a great city for shopping. We have everything from designer brands to high street favourites. But if you want to support local, independent businesses during your shopping break, the city also has a great selection of unusual and speciality shops. Perfect for picking up a special souvenir or gift for a loved one. Supporting local businesses is good for the environment and the economy. It also gives you the opportunity to find something a little different to take back home with you, that you wouldn’t find anywhere else. So, here are 10 of our favourite unique shops and small Scottish chains in Inverness. (Please check their opening days/hours before visiting).

Leakey’s Bookshop

Leakey’s Bookshop is a warm and charming secondhand book store, where you’ll find shelf upon shelf packed with every type of book you can think of. With a cosy log fire and comfy places to sit, this is a magical place to get lost in a book.

Highland House of Fraser

The Highland House of Fraser is family-run store, specialising in Highland dress. Manufacturing bespoke, hand-sewn kilts in a wide variety of tartans. You can also visit The Scottish Kiltmaker Visitor Centre, within the kiltmaking workshop, where you can learn all about Scottish traditional dress.

Judith Glue

Judith is an entrepreneur from Orkney in the Northern Isles of Scotland, and she has now brought her popular brand to Inverness. Championing the best Scottish produce from Orkney, the Highlands and Islands, Judith Glue is the place to pick up beautiful knitwear and gifts.

The Merchant

The Merchant is a wonderful antique store, where you might find a hidden treasure. Selling a wide range of items of all shapes and sizes, including art, furniture, collectables and jewellery.

Young’s Auld Sweetie Shop

An old-fashioned sweet shop, dedicated to retro and modern sweets, chocolate and candy, with a Scottish flavour. Evoking memories of childhood, find your favourite sweet treat at Young’s Auld Sweetie Shop.

Castle Gallery

Art lovers must visit the Castle Gallery, in the lee of Inverness Castle. With a range of beautiful paintings, prints, sculptures, jewellery, glass and ceramics, you’re sure to find something unique and special here.

Isle of Skye Candle Company

The Isle of Skye Candle Company hand-makes home fragrances and candles on the Isle of Skye. The Scottish company places an emphasis on sustainability, using natural, recyclable ingredients and packaging.

Highland Whisky Shop

The Highland Whisky Shop is an independent, family-owned store, selling a large selection of whiskies and gins from aroung Scotland. They also have a tasting bar, where you can sample a few drams.

Half A Moon

10 miles east of Inverness, in Ardersier, Half A Moon is a stained-glass specialist. The gorgeous range includes glass panels, clocks, lamps, mirrors and candleholders.

Connage Cheese Pantry

This popular cheese shop is located at Connage Highland Dairy, a traditional family farm, also in Ardersier. Stocking a full range of cheeses handmade on the farm and a hand-picked selection of guest cheeses.

Thank you for supporting local, independent and speciality shops in Inverness. This is one small way you can make a big difference. Find out more ways you can enjoy an eco-friendly holiday in the Highlands.