Look for the grand sandstone entrance with three arched openings and “MARKETS” carved high above, right on the street front like a little city gateway.
Welcome to Inverness’s Victorian Market, the covered arcade that’s been luring shoppers inside since 1870, when it first opened as the “New Market.” Step under that neoclassical archway by local architect William Lawrie and you can almost hear the old bustle: boots on stone, shop bells chiming, gossip travelling faster than a Highland breeze. The clever bit is the layout two arcades crossing inside one block, like a tidy indoor crossroads designed for temptation. Today, more than thirty independent spots are tucked in here: cafés for a warming cuppa, boutiques for a browse, services, and a food hall when your stomach starts campaigning.
But the market’s proudest tale is its comeback. In 1889, fire tore through the arcade and burned it out completely. When it reopened on 8 September 1891, locals swore a loyal dog dashed back in during the blaze to stand guard at his owner’s shop and that, they’ll tell you, is why dogs are still welcome.
Ready for Eastgate Shopping Centre? Just walk southeast for 2 minutes; it will be on your right.
