Ness Walk

The story of Ness Walk Hotel began in the mid-19th century, as a cozy riverside villa known by its address of 12 Ness Walk. The house was constructed as the home of Dr. William Simpson, a provost of the Royal Burgh of Inverness. As the property changed hands over the decades, it gradually transformed from a private residence into a small yet lavish guest house.

When the Kingsmills Hotel Group acquired the property in 2017, the new owners stepped in with the intent of turning it into a luxury hotel. Following extensive restorations and expansions, the new Ness Walk Hotel opened in 2019, boasting 47 rooms and suites. Despite modernizations, care was taken to preserve key period details, such as fireplaces, cornices, and the original drawing room. The latter was transformed into The Torrish Restaurant, the hotel's signature dining venue.

Ness Walk Hotel is an establishment that blends historical charm with modern refinement. Situated along the historic Ness Walk, where many other historic hotels sit, Ness Walk Hotel differentiates itself with its juxtaposition of modern and classical buildings. The resulting layout presents a small estate with a central courtyard, while another side faces out to the nearby river.

For its interior spaces, the hotel retains its high-ceiling lounge, still complete with detailed cornicing and a well-kept fireplace for warmth. The former drawing room, where guests were invited and entertained, is now the fine-dining Torrish Restaurant. As for its rooms and suites, they have been remade with soft, natural color palettes and textiles inspired by the seasons. Among these are accessible rooms, meant to address the needs of visitors with mobility impairments. They include features such as safety cords, grab rails, and shower seats.

Torrish Restaurant

The signature restaurant of Ness Walk Hotel, you'll find Torrish housed in the original 19th-century drawing room. You'll find plenty of elegant historic flourishes, resulting in a dining experience with period ambiance. As for the dishes, Head Chef Gerard Chouet prepares a seasonally driven a la carte selection, along with a curated tasting menu. Ingredients are drawn from the Highlands, primarily local meats from pastures, seafood from the coast, and seasonal vegetables and herbs, many of which are picked from the hotel's herb garden.

The Terrace

Enjoy a refreshing alfresco dining experience during a clear, breezy day or evening out on The Terrace. Start your day with an energizing breakfast, or unwind with an afternoon tea served with sandwiches and pastries. Socialize with other guests over a game of petanque and Jenga, or listen to the soothing music as you nibble your delightful cake.

Reservations are required and can be made through the hotel's website.

Heavenly Afternoon Tea

Dubbing their tea service as the Heavenly Afternoon Tea, the Ness Walk Hotel promises a few afternoon hours filled with rich flavors and a relaxing atmosphere. Try their signature seasonal flavors, from the tea blends to the pastries made with available fruits. Also offered are vegan and gluten-free servings, ensuring guests are able to have a wonderful time.

Torrish Bar

The Torrish Bar offers a sophisticated yet cozy space where you can relax after a long day, or grab a nightcap before heading off to dreamland. Kick back and unwind in one of the plush leather and velvet seats, while sipping your preferred glasses of cocktails, wines, and whiskies.

By making use of its gorgeous riverside location, Ness Walk Hotel can transform into a memorable destination wedding venue for couples who wish to celebrate their special day in the Scottish Highlands.

Couples can choose between venues for intimate gatherings or book the whole hotel with a full exclusive-use wedding. The main venue for ceremonies and receptions is the glass-fronted Riverbank Room, which opens toward the courtyard and the River Ness. The surrounding lawns and terraces also provide beautiful outdoor areas for photographs, outdoor receptions, and socializing.

The catering is a major highlight of the Ness Walk wedding experience, and Chef Gerard and his teams craft bespoke menus the finest local ingredients. The reception can come in various formats, from traditional plated servings to shared feasts and buffets. Likewise, the planning will be handled by an experienced and dedicated coordinator. They'll assist with scheduling, decor, supplier recommendations, and the overall design. The hotel also maintains connections with trusted partners including florists, photographers, stylists, and entertainers.

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

Ness Walk Hotel offers a wide array of incredible experiences and activities that allow guests to explore the Highlands in exciting ways. With the help of personalized itineraries, you can look forward to trips and excursions that align with your interests and pace. Take private guided tours of Inverness and the Highland landscapes, stopping at historic castles like Inverness Castle and Castle Stuart. Other trips can also focus on local heritage, such as age-old industries and establishments, including whisky distilleries and fishing villages.

Adventurous guests can enjoy plenty of outdoor excursions such as highland hikes, wildlife watching, or venturing along the shores of Loch Ness. For those seeking a gentler escape, the hotel arranges river and loch boat rides, leisurely country drives, or even kilt-fitting trips.

Other Celebrations

Couples, families, and groups looking to celebrate a special day can book a private dinner at one of the hotel's venues. Particularly large gatherings can book the Riverbank Room if they're expecting plenty of guests. Otherwise, a small party can be accommodated at the courtyard or restaurant instead.