Kingsmills Hotel

Kingsmills Hotel stands on Culcabock Road on the south-east side of Inverness, in its own grounds beside a golf course, with a short drive or taxi ride into the centre. The official website describes classic, patio, luxury, family, garden, dog-friendly and accessible rooms, all en suite, with air conditioning in the luxury, garden and Kingsclub rooms. A leisure club with a pool, gym, spa and treatment rooms is a bonus after a long day tour, and free on-site parking with covered CCTV and electric vehicle chargers suits drivers. Dining options include the Inglis Restaurant, the Conservatory Restaurant, a lounge and a whisky bar.

Think of Kingsmills as a resort-style base on the edge of the city. It is not in the old centre, so you will need a taxi or a bus for the castle, the river and the cathedral, but the A9 and the roads toward Culloden, Fort George and the Black Isle are easy to reach, and the airport is about twenty minutes by car. For a trip built around driving and day tours, that trade-off often works well, because parking is simple and free.

Rooms vary. Patio and garden rooms have their own outdoor space and are appealing in summer, while dog-friendly rooms make it a flexible choice for pet owners. Family rooms work for parents travelling with children, and the leisure club pool is a welcome extra on wet days. The official page says the pool is currently open, but facilities can change, so confirm before you book if swimming matters.

Who it suits: families, golfers, drivers and mid-budget couples who want facilities and quiet rather than a walkable centre. Good to know: ask about breakfast, since packages vary, book dinner in advance because the hotel recommends it, and choose a luxury or garden room if you want air conditioning. Evenings are calmer here than in the centre, so it is a good choice for light sleepers, while those who want pubs and restaurants on the doorstep should look at the riverside hotels instead.