Loch Ness: Things to Do | Top Attractions, Hikes & Tours

Top things to do at Loch Ness

Loch Ness is a freshwater loch in the Scottish Highlands, famous worldwide for its fabled monster, Nessie. Beyond the mystery, the area offers a rich blend of history, nature, and adventure. Whether you're a seasoned monster hunter or simply looking to explore the beautiful landscape, there are a number of Loch Ness attractions to experience.

Urquhart Castle

Families · Photo-ops · History

Perched on the edge of the loch, Urquhart Castle is one of Scotland's most iconic ruins, with a history spanning over 1,000 years. Exploring the medieval fortress, its great hall, and a prison cell offers a tangible connection to the region's turbulent past and provides panoramic views of the water.

Pro-tip: Book your tickets online in advance to secure a discount and guarantee entry, especially during the peak summer season.
Timings: Vary by season; typically 9:30am to 5pm in autumn and winter, with extended hours in spring and summer.

About Urquhart Castle

Loch Ness cruise

Families · Relaxation

A cruise is one of the best ways to truly appreciate the scale and beauty of Loch Ness. These tours typically offer live commentary about the loch's history, geology, and, of course, the monster legend. Many cruises use sonar technology, allowing you to see what lies in the mysterious depths below—a fun nod to the famous legend.

Pro-tip: Choose a cruise that includes a stop or a close pass by Urquhart Castle for a combined experience and great photo opportunities.
Duration: Typically 1 to 2 hours.
Accessibility: Many modern tour boats are wheelchair and stroller accessible.

About Loch Ness boat tours

Loch Ness monster statue near a road and greenery in Scotland.

The Loch Ness Centre

Families · Groups

Located in the village of Drumnadrochit, The Loch Ness Centre is an immersive experience that presents the real story behind the myth. Through a series of multimedia presentations, the centre guides you through the geological formation of the loch, historical accounts, and decades of scientific research.

Pro-tip: Walk-up tickets are more expensive; save money by purchasing your tickets online ahead of time.
Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Falls of Foyers

Nature · Adventure

Located on the quieter, south side of Loch Ness, the Falls of Foyers is a waterfall that cascades 165 feet into the gorge below. A scenic woodland trail leads you down to a viewpoint where you can witness the full force of the falls. It’s one of the best free Loch Ness things to do for nature lovers and a great opportunity for a memorable hike.

Pro-tip: The path can be steep and slippery, so wear sturdy footwear. The views are particularly impressive after a period of heavy rain.
Accessibility: The walk is not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers due to the steep, uneven path.

Dores Beach

Budget · Relaxation

Dores Beach, a shingle beach at the northern end of the loch, offers an unobstructed view down the length of Loch Ness and the Great Glen. This is one of the most accessible and peaceful Loch Ness attractions, and it’s completely free. It’s the perfect spot to simply relax, take in the atmosphere, and snap a panoramic photo.

Pro-tip: Go at sunset for the most dramatic lighting and a beautiful view of the sky reflecting on the loch.
Photography tips: The shoreline, with the gentle waves of the loch and the distant hills, makes for a classic Scottish landscape shot.

Hikers on a trail overlooking a loch in the Isle of Skye, The Highlands.

Loch Ness 360° Trail

Adventure · Nature

The Loch Ness 360° Trail is an 80-mile (130 km) circuit that loops the entire circumference of the loch. While completing the entire trail is a multi-day hike, you can easily tackle smaller, day-long sections to experience views and diverse landscapes. It connects the Great Glen Way and the South Loch Ness Trail, offering something for every fitness level.

Pro-tip: The section from Fort Augustus to Foyers offers some of the most dramatic views from the quieter south side of the loch.

Fort Augustus, Scotland, with canal, historic buildings, and lush greenery.

Fort Augustus Locks

Families · Photo-ops

At the southern tip of the loch lies the picturesque village of Fort Augustus, where the Caledonian Canal meets Loch Ness. A series of five locks raises and lowers boats, allowing them to navigate this historic waterway. It's a free spectacle to watch as boats pass through the locks. The bustling village and views of the canal make it a charming spot.

Pro-tip: Grab a coffee or a bite to eat at one of the cafes by the locks and spend some time watching the boats in action.

Tourist with Scottish umbrella views Urquhart Castle at Loch Ness, Scotland in autumn.

Suidhe Viewpoint

Relaxation · Photo-ops

For a less-trafficked but equally breathtaking view, head to the Suidhe Viewpoint on the south side of the loch. Situated at 1,200 feet (365m) above sea level, it offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains, glens, and several smaller lochs, including Loch Tarff. The drive itself is scenic, and a short walk from the roadside parking spot brings you to the viewpoint. It's an excellent stop for a quiet moment and incredible photos, making it a hidden gem among Loch Ness attractions.

Pro-tip: This is a great alternative to the busier viewpoints on the northern side. Visit on a clear day for the best views.

Recommended Loch Ness itineraries

Cruise ship on Loch Ness, Scotland with scenic hills in the background.

Half-day route

Urquhart Castle: Explore the iconic ruins on the loch's edge for a true sense of history and incredible photo opportunities.
Loch Ness cruise: Embark on a short cruise to hear tales of Nessie and get a different perspective of the mysterious loch from the water.
The Loch Ness Centre: Immerse yourself in the myth, the science, and the history behind the monster legend through interactive exhibits.

Urquhart Castle ruins overlooking Loch Ness with a boat on the water.

Full-day route

Loch Ness Centre & Exhibition: Begin your day in Drumnadrochit with an engaging tour of the visitor centre to get the full story of the monster.
Urquhart Castle: Spend an hour or two wandering the famous castle ruins and enjoying the loch views.
Lunch in Drumnadrochit: Grab a bite in this charming village, which has plenty of cafes and pubs.
Fort Augustus Locks: Drive to the southern tip of the loch to watch boats navigate the impressive series of locks on the Caledonian Canal.
Dores Beach: End your day at the northern end of the loch for a peaceful, free experience with a view.

Tourists photographing Loch Ness from a high-speed cruise boat.

For families

The Loch Ness Centre: The interactive exhibits and multi-media presentations are designed to captivate younger audiences and get them excited about the legend.
Loch Ness cruise: Book a family-friendly boat tour with engaging commentary and on-board sonar to let the kids feel like real monster hunters.
Highland Cow spotting: Drive down the B862 on the south side of the loch to find "Hairy Coos" for fun photos. Many local farms welcome visitors.

Traveler taking a selfie with the Quiraing mountains in the Isle of Skye, Scotland.

For adventurers

Hike to the Falls of Foyers: Go on a scenic woodland walk on the south side of the loch to witness a 165-foot waterfall.
Canoeing or kayaking on the loch: Join a guided tour from Fort Augustus or Drumnadrochit for a thrilling and up-close water experience.
Loch Ness 360° Trail: Choose a section of this 80-mile trail, like the route from Fort Augustus, for a challenging hike with panoramic views. It’s one of the most rewarding things to do for outdoor enthusiasts.

For rainy days

The Loch Ness Centre: Start indoors and dive into the Nessie myth. The centre's exhibits are all inside and provide a fantastic overview.
Cruise Loch Ness: A boat cruise is an excellent way to see the loch while staying mostly dry in a covered cabin. You'll still get a great view of the scenery.
The Highlanders' Museum: Take a short drive to Fort George to explore the history of the Highland regiments in a comprehensive indoor museum.

Practical guide for things to do at Loch Ness

Driver using GPS navigation in car to reach Kuranda Village.

While driving is the most flexible way to explore the area, allowing you to stop at multiple Loch Ness attractions, be aware that the roads around the loch are narrow and can be busy, especially in summer.
Public buses also run regularly from Inverness along the north side of the loch to Drumnadrochit and Fort Augustus.
For a greener option, consider hiking or cycling sections of the Loch Ness 360° Trail.

Loch Ness with lush green hills and rocky formations under a cloudy sky.

The weather in the Highlands is notoriously unpredictable. It can change quickly from sunshine to rain in a matter of minutes, even in summer.
The best time to visit for pleasant weather and longer daylight hours is from May to September.
April and May are often the driest months, and late September and October offer beautiful autumn colours with fewer crowds.
Be prepared for cooler temperatures and wind, especially on Loch Ness cruises.

Person standing by a lake in the Isle of Skye, surrounded by grassy hills.

Layers are key to the Scottish climate. Even in summer, pack a fleece or warm sweater and a waterproof and windproof jacket.
Sturdy, comfortable footwear is essential for walking and hiking trails.
Other useful items include a reusable water bottle (tap water is safe to drink), a power bank for your phone, and a good insect repellent like "Smidge" to combat midges, which are most active from late spring to early autumn.

No littering sign in desert area with crossed-out trash symbols.

When enjoying the Loch Ness things to do outdoors, stick to marked paths, particularly on hikes, to avoid getting lost or disturbing wildlife.
The loch's water is extremely cold year-round and can cause cold water shock, so swimming is only recommended for experienced and prepared cold-water swimmers.
Leave no trace of your visit by taking all litter with you.
Please be respectful of local communities and private property.

Wheelchair accessible route sign with arrow pointing right.

Urquhart Castle and the Loch Ness Centre offer accessible routes.
Some boat cruises may not be wheelchair accessible, so it's best to check with the operator in advance.
Many hiking trails, such as the Falls of Foyers path, have uneven terrain and steep steps, making them unsuitable for wheelchairs or strollers.

Castle Urquhart overlooking Loch Ness with scenic Highlands backdrop in Inverness, Scotland.

Entry & access: Book tickets online for popular Loch Ness attractions like Urquhart Castle and The Loch Ness Centre. This often saves you money and guarantees entry, especially during busy periods. Most places accept card payments, but it's wise to carry some cash for smaller, remote vendors.
Best time to visit: To avoid the biggest crowds, visit in the shoulder seasons (April–May or September–October). For the best chance of good weather, aim for June to August, but be prepared for more visitors. The early morning and late afternoon are generally less crowded times to visit key sights.
Duration: A full day is recommended to experience the main Loch Ness things to do, like a cruise, Urquhart Castle, and a visit to The Loch Ness Centre. However, to fully appreciate the region and all the things to do in Loch Ness, consider staying for at least two days to explore the quieter areas and scenic trails.
Insider hacks: For a less-crowded experience of the loch, explore the south side. The single-track road here offers uninterrupted views. For a photo-op, head to the Dores Beach shoreline at sunset or the Suidhe Viewpoint for a panoramic vista of the surrounding glens.

Frequently Asked Questions about Loch Ness things to do

What are some unique things to do in Loch Ness that go beyond the usual sights?

While boat cruises and Urquhart Castle are the most popular things to do, consider exploring the quieter south side of the loch. You can hike to the Falls of Foyers, drive to the scenic Suidhe Viewpoint for panoramic vistas, or visit the historic Corrimony Chambered Cairn to connect with Scotland's prehistoric past. For a more modern and sustainable experience, the Dundreggan Rewilding Centre provides a unique look into Highland conservation efforts.

How much time is enough to explore the main Loch Ness attractions?

To see the key Loch Ness attractions and get a feel for the area, a half-day trip is a good start. This could include a boat cruise and a visit to Urquhart Castle. However, to truly appreciate the region's beauty and explore some of the other things to do in Loch Ness, plan for a full day or a two-day trip. This will give you time to hike, visit the different villages, and explore the less-trafficked areas.

Are there any free things to do at Loch Ness?

Yes, there are several free things to do. You can enjoy the scenery from Dores Beach at the northern end of the loch, which offers a great view down its length. Hiking is another free activity, with trails like the Falls of Foyers or a section of the Loch Ness 360° Trail offering incredible natural beauty. Watching the boats navigate the locks at Fort Augustus is also a free spectacle.

Is Loch Ness suitable for families with young children?

Absolutely. Many Loch Ness attractions are very family-friendly. The Loch Ness Centre and its interactive exhibits are a great way to engage kids with the monster myth in a fun way. Boat cruises are also exciting for children, and the open spaces around Urquhart Castle are perfect for them to run around and explore. Just be mindful that some hiking trails may be too strenuous for little ones.

What is the best way to get to the main attractions without a car?

If you don't have a car, public buses are a good option, with regular services from Inverness to Drumnadrochit, the main hub for Loch Ness attractions. Many tour operators also run convenient day trips from Inverness that include transport, a boat cruise, and entry to Urquhart Castle, combining the top Loch Ness things to do into one easy package.

Can you swim in Loch Ness?

While you are technically allowed to swim in Loch Ness under Scottish access laws, it is strongly advised against for recreational swimmers. The loch is a very deep, freshwater body, and the water is extremely cold year-round (around 41°F or 5°C). This can quickly lead to cold water shock and hypothermia, even on a warm day. Swimming is only recommended for experienced open-water swimmers with the right equipment and safety support.

Are drones allowed at Loch Ness attractions?

The use of drones is generally permitted in Scotland, but with strict rules. When flying, you must comply with the Civil Aviation Authority's Drone Code. However, many specific attractions and historical sites, such as Urquhart Castle (managed by Historic Environment Scotland), have their own policies and often require prior consent for any drone use. You should always check for specific signage or contact the site managers before flying, and never fly over crowds of people.

Is it possible to see the Loch Ness monster?

The possibility of seeing the Loch Ness monster is what draws so many people to the area, but sightings are not a frequent occurrence. While there have been over 1,100 reported sightings in the official register, many of these are unexplained sonar readings or fleeting glimpses. The monster is widely considered to be a myth. However, the mystery is a huge part of the fun, and you can learn about the history and scientific research at The Loch Ness Centre.

What are some dog-friendly things to do in Loch Ness?

Loch Ness is a great destination for travellers with pets, including hiking a section of the Loch Ness 360° Trail, walking along Dores Beach, and visiting the Fort Augustus locks. Additionally, many boat cruise operators welcome well-behaved dogs on board. Many pubs and cafes in the villages around the loch also have dog-friendly areas. Always keep your dog on a leash, especially near livestock.