Time is running out to book a cosy festive staycation.This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
Scotland’s ‘Christmas capital’ isn’t where you might think(Image: krbnah / Getty Images)
As we near the midpoint of November, time is running out to book a cosy winter staycation. Christmas might seem like ages away, but December 25 will be here before we know it.
When it comes to festive getaways in Scotland, Edinburgh is the most popular spot in the country thanks to its world-renowned Christmas market. However, it is another Scottish city that was once crowned its top Christmas destination.
As reported by the Daily Record, Inverness was previously named Scotland’s “Christmas capital”. It earned the title thanks to its relatively high level of snowfall each year, as well as its accommodation options.
READ MORE: Getaway on Scottish island ‘perfect to unwind’ you can book for better than half price
READ MORE: ‘Spectacular’ Scottish Christmas market crowned best in the UK for 2025
Inverness is nestled along Scotland‘s northeast coast, where the River Ness meets the Moray Firth. It is the biggest city and cultural capital of the Scottish Highlands.
There are a number of Christmas-themed events in Inverness and the surrounding area set to take place in the coming weeks. These include festive markets, light switch-ons, and more.
The Inverness Christmas lights will be switched on in a day-long celebration on November 23. Those attending the festive event will also be able to enjoy Christmas shopping, a Santa’s Grotto, and more.
Meanwhile, the theatre, cinema, and arts venue Eden Court will be holding a festive fair on various days throughout November. There will be stalls selling handmade crafts, art, ceramics, accessories, gifts, and more, alongside a wide array of food and treats.
Elsewhere, the nearby Cawdor Castle will once again host its annual Christmas Market on December 13 and 14. Visitors to the historic castle will be able to enjoy festive food, market stalls, live music, and more seasonal entertainment.
In terms of accommodation in and near Inverness, holidaymakers have lots of options to choose from. The city is home to a large number of hotels, while there is no shortage of self-catered accommodation in the surrounding area.
Kingsmills Hotel(Image: Booking.com)
The Kingsmills Hotel is set within four acres of gardens, and features a spa, a swimming pool, and the popular Inglis Restaurant. Many of the rooms at the hotel benefit from garden views, while they feature satellite TVs and tea and coffee-making facilities.
A stay at the Kingsmills Hotel can currently be booked through Booking.com. One night at the hotel is available to book for as little as £75.
On Booking.com, the hotel has an overall rating of 8.6 out of 10 from guests. Visitors have described the accommodation as “clean and welcoming” and “fabulous”, though one recent review claimed that the ladies’ changing room in the swimming pool “could have been cleaner”.
Elsewhere, The Bunker near Inverness can be booked for £492 for three nights through holidaycottages.co.uk. The accommodation sleeps up to two guests.
The Bunker(Image: holidaycottages.co.uk)
The Bunker is located in its own enclosed area and includes a small patio with outdoor garden furniture. Inside, there is an open-plan lounge, kitchen, and diner, as well as a bedroom with a kingsize bed and a bathroom with a tub.
The accommodation has received positive reviews on holidaycottages.co.uk, with guests describing it as “very quiet” and “lovingly maintained”.
However, its location around 10 miles from Inverness may be too far from the city for some holidaymakers.