4 Things Not to Miss in Inverness

4. Leakey’s Bookshop

For the book-lovers out there, you cannot miss a visit to Leakey’s if you’re in Inverness. This second-hand bookstore, which claims to be “Scotland’s largest collection of old, rare and second-hand books and maps,” is housed in an 18th century church. It’s an eccentric and fascinating spot to go browsing for your next treasure.

On the ground floor, you’ll find shelves of books arranged by genre. The history section is particularly lush. Upstairs, in what was the balcony seating, there is a collection of old maps and a little cafe. Yet another opportunity for tea and scones!

There are pamphlets on the tables that will give you information about Leakey’s own connection with the Battle of Culloden. It gets depressing real fast. Here, I’ll just type up an excerpt:

“At the time of the Battle of Culloden, this church provided a temporary hospital. It was from here that sick and wounded Jacobite soldiers were taken out and shot against the walls of the Old High Church.”

Yikes.

Despite its dark history, it is a wonderful location, and well worth the stop!

Alyssa Hollingsworth / Own Work