Discover the unique charm and festive spirit by doing your Christmas shopping in Inverness this season. We’ve curated an insider’s guide to the most memorable Christmas shopping spots and festive events across Inverness, ideal for finding thoughtful, handcrafted gifts, unique Scottish products, and traditional holiday treats. Make the most of your Christmas shopping trip to Inverness this year, starting with our comprehensive guide!
Unique Shops for Christmas Shopping in Inverness
The Drawing Room
This charming family-owned boutique on Kingsmills Road is known for its carefully curated selection of home décor, jewellery, and exclusive gifts. The Drawing Room’s annual Festive Shopping Evening on November 14 is a delightful experience, offering prosecco, mince pies, and a cosy environment to explore their beautiful collections. As Inverness’s exclusive stockist of Emma Bridgewater Pottery, this boutique is ideal for distinctive and high-quality holiday finds.
The Castle Gallery
The Castle Gallery is a must-visit for art lovers. Renowned for its eclectic exhibitions, you’ll find landscape, figurative, and abstract works by emerging and established artists. Their annual Christmas Mixed Exhibition (November 1 – December 24) showcases handcrafted gifts, paintings, and sculptures, making it the perfect spot to find distinctive art pieces and support local talent. Located just five minutes from the city centre, it’s an essential stop on your holiday shopping itinerary.
Judith Glue Inverness
For authentic Scottish knitwear and eco-friendly gifts, visit Judith Glue’s shop on Bridge Street. Specializing in Orkney-made knitwear, clothing, and accessories from ethical brands, this cosy shop offers everything from Harris Tweed accessories to Sheila Fleet Orkney silver jewellery. With an extensive collection from local artisans, Judith Glue Inverness celebrates Scottish heritage and craftsmanship, perfect for shoppers seeking unique, meaningful gifts.
Leakey’s Bookshop
Scotland’s largest second-hand bookshop, Leakey’s Bookshop, is a magical destination for book enthusiasts. Located in a former Gaelic church, this labyrinthine store houses over 100,000 volumes. The cosy ambience and vast collection make it an unforgettable stop for literature lovers. Whether it’s classic novels, rare finds, or holiday-themed books, you’ll discover something special at Leakey’s.
The Victorian Market
Experience a slice of Inverness’s history at the Victorian Market, a covered market that dates back to 1870. Stroll among various shops and stalls, each offering unique gifts, local delicacies, and hand-crafted products. Don’t miss the festive treats at the Bad Girl Bakery or enjoy a drink at Moonshine, where you’ll find an array of wines, beers, and holiday-inspired cocktails. The market’s rich heritage and eclectic offerings make it a delightful stop on any Christmas shopping adventure.
Seasonal Markets and Christmas Craft Fairs
Exclusively Highland Craft Fair at Wildwoodz (October 18-20)
Set in the scenic surroundings of Wildwoodz, this craft fair features over 50 artisans showcasing everything from jewellery and pottery to gourmet Scottish foods. Wander through the autumnal landscape and explore an array of handcrafted items, organic skincare products, and delectable festive treats.
Eden Court Christmas Craft Fairs (November 15-17 and November 29 – December 1)
Held along the River Ness, Eden Court hosts two Christmas craft fairs showcasing local and Scottish producers. Find intricate metalwork, handmade textiles, and driftwood wares while enjoying seasonal refreshments. Sample local patisseries, Scottish cheeses, and spirits from distilleries throughout the Highlands for a truly festive shopping experience.
Inverness Wasp Studios Winter Market (November 29 – December 1)
Supporting local artisans, this vibrant winter market offers a unique selection of jewellery, home décor, textiles, and ceramics. Each item reflects the skill and dedication of Scottish craftspeople, making it an ideal stop for those looking to purchase high-quality, handcrafted gifts with a personal touch.
Festive Events and Activities
Brodie Castle Festival of Light (November 1-24)
The Brodie Castle Festival of Light celebrates its fifth anniversary with an immersive light display set against the castle’s historic architecture. This enchanting experience is designed to captivate visitors of all ages, combining festive lights with whimsical characters and memories from the Playful Garden. Don’t miss the opportunity to create and capture holiday memories with loved ones.
Victorian Market Elf on the Shelf Hunt (November 30)
Perfect for families, this free Elf on the Shelf Hunt invites visitors to search for Santa’s mischievous helpers hidden throughout the Victorian Market. Complete the hunt and you might just win a £100 City Centre Gift Card—making it a memorable and rewarding family outing.
Inverness Ice Centre Christmas Market & Santa Skating (December 14)
Featuring local vendors, Christmas stalls, and festive snacks, the Inverness Ice Centre Christmas Market is an ideal holiday stop. Kids can skate with Santa, making this a perfect day of holiday fun and shopping.
Make Christmas Shopping Easy With Inverness Taxis
This Christmas you don’t have to trudge home with all your gifts on the bus or park 1000 miles away from the shops because there’s no parking, prebook your Inverness Taxi and we’ll glide you into Inverness and back making Christmas shopping the joy it should be! You can book your local taxi through our convenient platforms:
Call Inverness Taxis on 01463222222
Or, for an immediate taxi, download our partner app SafeKab to book your Inverness taxi at the touch of a button!
Get your taxi from our city centre Inverness Taxi office on Church Street this November and December and you could win a £120 Inverness City Centre gift card! Just visit and get your taxi and you;ll be entered into our weekly raffle! How many more reasons do you need to make Inverness Taxis your ‘partner in Christmas’ this December?!
