Victorian Market
A charming 19th-century covered market in Inverness, featuring unique independent shops and a vibrant food hall.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lively atmosphere & live music
Victorian Market
Best Time
Lively atmosphere & live music
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming 19th-century covered market in Inverness, featuring unique independent shops and a vibrant food hall.
"A beautiful place! The arcade so neat! The shops are all lovely and the food hall is wonderful."
🎯 Check Hours Before You Go
Many shops close by 5 PM on weekdays. Confirm hours for specific stalls, especially the food hall. :clock1:
🍜 Sample the Food Hall
Don't miss the diverse food stalls! Salt and Fire (vegan) and Red Shank (seafood) get rave reviews. :food_bowl:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Vibrant Food Hall
Victorian Market
A culinary hub with diverse stalls offering everything from vegan delights to fresh seafood and hearty pulled meats.
Unique Independent Shops
Victorian Market
Discover handcrafted goods, vintage finds, jewelry, and local souvenirs in this charming arcade.
Architectural Charm
Victorian Market
Admire the ornate cast-iron details and domed wooden roof of this 19th-century covered market.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Victorian Market
Embrace the Local Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Hours Before You Go
Many shops close by 5 PM on weekdays. Confirm hours for specific stalls, especially the food hall.
:clock1:🍜 Sample the Food Hall
Don't miss the diverse food stalls! Salt and Fire (vegan) and Red Shank (seafood) get rave reviews.
:food_bowl:🛍️ Support Local Artisans
Find unique gifts and souvenirs from independent businesses within the market.
:gift:☀️ Enjoy the Natural Light
The market is beautifully lit by natural light, especially on sunny days.
:sunny:Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Hours Before You Go
Many shops close by 5 PM on weekdays. Confirm hours for specific stalls, especially the food hall.
:clock1:🍜 Sample the Food Hall
Don't miss the diverse food stalls! Salt and Fire (vegan) and Red Shank (seafood) get rave reviews.
:food_bowl:🛍️ Support Local Artisans
Find unique gifts and souvenirs from independent businesses within the market.
:gift:☀️ Enjoy the Natural Light
The market is beautifully lit by natural light, especially on sunny days.
:sunny:☕ Grab a Coffee Break
Several cafes offer a cozy spot for a coffee or tea, perfect for a mid-shopping break.
:coffee:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Victorian Market for its charming architecture, diverse food hall with quality eats, and a delightful array of independent shops offering unique finds. It's a beloved spot for both locals and tourists, providing a vibrant atmosphere, especially on weekends. However, some find the early weekday closing times inconvenient.
"Excellent food market with a decent variety of stalls. There was live music over the weekend, and a decent crowd too. However, tables/seats are easily available with a quick scan around the room. Sadly closing times are much too early to accommodate the working crowd on weekdays."
Blue Guitar
"Love this market place in the heart of Inverness. Apart from shopping, it also boasts a fabulous food hall, with great quality food stalls serving good quality food at decent prices. We went a few times whilst we stayed in town. The venue is not just frequented by visitors, but also warmly supported by locals. We tried the Mart, Highland Pulled Meat, Red Shank & Bad Girl Cafe. All offered decent quality quick meals & snacks."
Lorna W
"What a beautiful place! The arcade so neat! The shops are all lovely and the food hall is wonderful. Shoe repair? Check. Tailor? Yep. Butcher? Also yes. And all the souvenirs of the Highlands anyone could need. Hand-made goods, vintage things, and sweets! Don't sleep on the coffee or ice cream. Across the street from the railway station and the Royal Highland Hotel. Steps from Eastgate if you need more shopping."
Laurence Jackson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Victorian Market is conveniently located in the heart of Inverness, just across from the railway station and near Eastgate Shopping Centre. It's easily accessible on foot from most city center accommodations.
:train2:While there isn't direct parking at the market, several public car parks are nearby, including the Eastgate Shopping Centre car park.
:car:Yes, the market has level access at all entrances and accessible toilets, making it a welcoming space for all visitors.
:wheelchair:The Victorian Market is dog-friendly, so you can bring your furry companions along while you explore.
:dog:Opening hours vary by shop, but the market generally operates from around 11 AM to 6 PM, with later closures on Fridays and Saturdays. Weekday closing times can be as early as 5 PM.
:clock1:🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Victorian Market is free. You only pay for any purchases you make from the shops or food stalls. :ticket:
Weekends, especially afternoons, tend to be busier due to live music and a more vibrant atmosphere. Weekday lunchtimes can also be popular for the food hall.
:bustsinsilhouette:Some shops may have reduced hours or be closed on Sundays, but the food hall is often open. It's best to check individual shop hours beforehand.
:calendar:No, there is no admission fee for the food hall. You can browse the stalls and purchase food and drinks as you wish. :moneywithwings:
For a more relaxed visit, aim for weekday mornings or early afternoons, outside of peak lunch hours. :person_walking:
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Services
You'll find a diverse range of independent shops selling handmade crafts, jewelry, vintage items, souvenirs, shoe repairs, tailoring services, and more.
:shopping_bags:Yes, the market is a great place to find Highland souvenirs, from traditional crafts to unique local products.
:gift_heart:While primarily a food hall with prepared meals, you might find some stalls offering local produce or artisanal food products. :apple:
Absolutely! The variety of independent shops makes it an excellent spot for finding unique and thoughtful gifts.
:ribbon:Yes, the market hosts various services, including shoe repair and tailoring, adding to its practical appeal.
:wrench:🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The food hall offers a fantastic variety, including vegan street food, fresh seafood, pulled meats, coffee, and cakes.
:forkandknifewithplate:Yes, Salt and Fire is a highly recommended vegan street food vendor within the market.
:leaf:Popular choices include Salt and Fire, Red Shank (seafood), and Highland Pulled Meat.
:star2:Prices are generally considered decent, offering good quality food at reasonable rates.
:moneybag:Yes, several cafes within the market serve coffee, tea, and hot chocolate, perfect for a warm-up.
:hot_beverage:📸 📸 Photography
Definitely! The market's Victorian architecture, natural light, and vibrant stalls offer many picturesque opportunities.
:camerawithflash:Focus on the ornate cast-iron details, the domed wooden roof, and the colorful displays of the food stalls and shops.
:frame_photo:Yes, you can take photos of the food stalls, but be mindful of other patrons and ask permission if you're focusing on individuals. :camerawithflash:
It can get crowded, especially on weekends. Visiting during off-peak hours will provide a better experience for photography. :person_running:
Seasonal events, like Christmas markets or festivals, can add extra visual interest for photographers.
:christmas_tree:For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for stalls offering sweets and treats, and consider the accessible facilities which are helpful when navigating with children. The variety of shops means there's likely something to spark everyone's interest, from unique toys to fun souvenirs.
💰 Budget Travelers
While some of the independent shops might offer higher-priced artisanal goods, there are also opportunities to find affordable souvenirs and unique items. Browsing the market itself is an experience that costs nothing, making it a great free activity in Inverness.
🚶 Day-Trippers
Be mindful of the early closing times for many shops, especially on weekdays. Plan your visit to ensure you can experience the food hall before it closes, as it's a highlight for many visitors.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Taste of Inverness: The Food Hall Experience
Beyond the main attractions, you can also find stalls offering hearty pulled meats and cozy cafes for coffee and cakes. The atmosphere is often lively, especially on weekends when live music might be playing, adding to the sensory experience. It's a perfect spot to grab lunch or a snack while exploring the city.
Remember that while the food hall often has later closing times on Fridays and Saturdays (until 8 PM), other shops in the market may close much earlier, so plan your culinary exploration accordingly.
Shopping for Treasures: Independent Boutiques
Whether you're looking for a unique gift, a memento of your trip to Inverness, or simply enjoy browsing one-of-a-kind items, the market delivers. You might find anything from bespoke jewellery to quirky vintage clothing and locally made Highland crafts. It’s a fantastic way to support small businesses and take home something memorable.
Be aware that shop opening hours can vary significantly. While some may be open throughout the day, others might have shorter hours or be closed on certain days. It’s always a good idea to check ahead if you have a specific shop in mind.
Architectural Gem: A Glimpse of Victorian Grandeur
This architectural beauty provides a unique backdrop for the bustling shops and eateries within. It’s a place where history meets modern commerce, offering a delightful visual experience alongside your shopping and dining. The market's design makes it a comfortable place to explore, regardless of the weather outside.
For photographers, the market offers numerous opportunities to capture its intricate details and the lively atmosphere. The blend of historical structure and vibrant activity makes for compelling shots.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit