A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Lake District National Park vs. Inverness for Backpackers, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Lake District National Park or Inverness?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Lake District National Park and Inverness. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park is a enjoyable, unique, and beautiful national park. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the food and hiking.

Inverness

Inverness is a traditional, local, and historic city. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Lake District National Park and Inverness: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Home to Loch Ness
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Lake District National Park or Inverness?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Inverness. Although Lake District National Park and Inverness are both popular with visitors, Inverness has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Inverness is more popular for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and small town charm, while Lake District National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Lake District National Park is popular for its mountains, lakes, stunning natural beauty, and amazing hikes. Inverness is popular for its surrounding countryside, but also its regional heritage, local festivals and proximity to the famous Loch Ness. It is also home to Loch Ness.

How is Lake District National Park different from Inverness?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Inverness and Lake District National Park. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lake District National Park or Inverness?

Lake District National Park
Inverness

Inverness is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Lake District National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Inverness. As a city rich in culture and heritage, you'll find a number of sights and museums in town. Check out the Highland House of Fraser, Culloden Moor, and Clava Cairns.

Lake District National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Lake District National Park or Inverness? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lake District National Park
Inverness

Foodies will find both Lake District National Park and Inverness both to be high quality destinations.

Lake District National Park has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There's a long history of culinary arts in the region and you'll enjoy locally sourced ingredients at many restaurants. There are also a number of Michelin starred restaurants to choose from.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Inverness makes for a great culinary experience. The city makes a great spot to fill your belly after a few days exploring the Scottish Highlands. You'll find local restaurants that serve up regional specialties, and when the weather's nice, there are some spots with outdoor seating.

Is Lake District National Park or Inverness Better for Nightlife?

Lake District National Park
Inverness

Inverness is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Lake District National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Inverness. Nightlife isn't the first thing that comes to mind with this town, but there are actually lots of distilleries in the area and there's a surprising number of high quality bars and pubs that make for a fun evening.

Lake District National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Lake District National Park or Inverness Better for Hiking?

Lake District National Park
Inverness

Lake District National Park is terrific for the nearby hiking options. However, Inverness is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Lake District National Park specifically for its hiking. There's a huge selection of hikes to choose from in the area, ranging from easy strolls to more strenuous climbs. The park offers some of the best hiking in the country and you can spend days exploring. Some of the favorite hikes in the area include Scafell Pike, Helvellyn, and Catbells.

Inverness is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Lake District National Park or Inverness?

Lake District National Park
Inverness

Inverness is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Lake District National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Inverness. The town is at the cultural heart of the Scottish Highlands you'll find plenty of local shops where you can pick up local products. Make sure you check out the Inverness Victorian Market.

Lake District National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Lake District National Park or Inverness Better for Families?

Lake District National Park
Inverness

Lake District National Park is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Inverness is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Lake District National Park is a very kid-friendly national park. Kids will enjoy getting out in nature as much as the adults do. They can stretch their legs and run around, or you can check out some of the family-friendly activities in the area. Popular options include the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway, the World of Beatrix Potter, Wray Castle, and the adventure park Brockhole on Windermere. There's also Lakes Aquarium, Lake District Wildlife Park, and Lake District Coast Aquarium for animal lovers.

Inverness is a family-friendly national park. The city has some parks and activities that are great for kids. Make sure you explore Inverness Castle and the Inverness Mystery Treasure Trail.

Is Lake District National Park or Inverness Better for Couples?

Lake District National Park
Inverness

Lake District National Park is a well-known place for its romantic activities. Also, Inverness is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Lake District National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. One of the most impressive national parks in the country, couples will enjoy hiking, camping, and exploring this stunning setting. Whether you're watching the sunset from a mountaintop or enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the water, this park is a perfect place to relax.

Inverness is a good national park for couples to visit. Located in the Scottish Highlands, there ae many scenic spots and nice activities that couples can enjoy in the area.


Is Lake District National Park or Inverness Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lake District National Park
Inverness

Lake District National Park is terrific for backpackers. However, Inverness is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Lake District National Park. There are plenty of camping options throughout the park with a range of hookup facilities to meet everyone's needs. Waterfront campsites are also available.

Inverness is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There a some hostels and student hotels, but this isn't one of the major backpacker spots in the UK.

Is Lake District National Park or Inverness Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lake District National Park
Inverness

Visitors will find decent public transit in both Lake District National Park and Inverness.

Public transit is mostly limited in Lake District National Park. There are shuttlebuses in parts of the park.

Public transit is generally limited in Inverness. There are local buses that pass through the town.

Is Lake District National Park or Inverness a more walkable city?

Lake District National Park
Inverness

Inverness is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Lake District National Park is not a walkable destination.

Inverness is a very walkable destination. It's compact enough that you can explore much of the town on foot.

Lake District National Park is not a walkable destination.


For even more information, also check out Is Lake District National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Inverness Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Inverness or Lake District National Park?

How long in Lake District National Park or Inverness?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Lake District National Park and Inverness. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lake District National Park than in Inverness. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Lake District National Park, and 1-3 days is enough time in Inverness.

Families should spend more time in Lake District National Park than Inverness. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Lake District National Park, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Lake District National Park than Inverness. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Lake District National Park that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lake District National Park than Inverness if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Lake District National Park.


  • How many days in Lake District National Park or Inverness? Ideal Length of Stay
    Lake District National Park 3-7 
    Inverness 1-3

One day in Lake District National Park or Inverness?

You'll find food around the national park of Lake District National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic destination of Inverness. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Lake District National Park or Inverness?

You'll find food around the spectacular destination of Lake District National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Many people visit Inverness for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Five days in Lake District National Park or Inverness?

You'll find food around the enjoyable national park of Lake District National Park. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this national park makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer.

The historic destination of Inverness offers shopping and museums. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.


A week in Lake District National Park or Inverness?

Lake District National Park is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lake District National Park, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Inverness, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in United Kingdom, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United Kingdom, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United Kingdom, and The Best Adventure Tours to United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, Inverness or Lake District National Park?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Lake District National Park is £81, while the average daily cost in Inverness is £168. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Lake District National Park and Inverness in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lake District National Park £39
    Inverness £91
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lake District National Park £78
    Inverness £182
Compare Hotels in Lake District National Park and Inverness

Looking for a hotel in Lake District National Park or Inverness? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Lake District National Park


Hotels in Inverness


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Inverness Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lake District National Park £33
    Inverness £33

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lake District National Park

Also for Lake District National Park, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Lake District Ski Club to Newcastle Airport - Departure Transfer: $33
  • Lake District Ski Club to Manchester Airport - Departure Transfer: $43

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Inverness

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Inverness:

  • Inverness to Isle of Skye Direct transfer: $617
  • Inverness to Glasgow Direct transfer: $773
  • Inverness to Fort William Direct transfer: $370
  • Inverness to Edinburgh Direct transfer: $773
  • Inverness Private Transfer to Aviemore: $229
  • Inverness Airport (INV) to Lecht Ski Resort - Arrival Transfer: $33
  • Inverness Airport (INV) to Glenshee Ski Resort - Arrival Transfer: $66
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Inverness INV to Inverness City by luxury vehicle: $105
  • Transfers / Tour from , inverness, Edinburgh ,Glasgow ,Aberdeen : $184

Is it cheaper to fly into Lake District National Park or Inverness?

Prices for flights to both Inverness and Lake District National Park change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Lake District National Park £21
    Inverness £49

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Lake District National Park £20
    Inverness £44

Tours and Activities in Lake District National Park

For Lake District National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Ghyll Scrambling Water Adventure in the Lake District: $89
  • Guided Canoeing Experience on Coniston Water - Half Day: $89
  • 3-Hours Via Ferrata Experience in Keswick: $139

Tours and Activities in Inverness

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Inverness are as follows:

  • 1-Day Moray Coast Tour with Speyside Whisky from Inverness: $97
  • 2-Day Tour to Isle of Skye, The Fairy Pools & Highland Castles: $191
  • 2-Hour Private Celtic Handfasting Ceremony Experience: $108
  • 25 Shot Clay Pigeon Shooting Experience: $63
  • Applecross, Loch Carron & Wild Highlands Tour from Inverness: $68
  • Cawdor Castle, Inverness, Culloden, Outlander and Loch Ness Tour: $164
  • Chauffeur driven sightseeing Edinburgh to & from Inverness: $990
  • Clan Tour - Castle ,Whisky and History Tour: $172
  • Craigs Luxury Speyside Private Whisky Tour: $679
  • Day tour to Isle of Skye and Fairy Pools from Inverness: $126
  • From Cairngorms National Park and Whisky Tour: $75
  • From Glen Affric, Culloden and Clava Cairns Tour: $73

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Lake District National Park £4.64
    Inverness £23

Sample the Local Flavors in Inverness

Also in Inverness, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • From Invergordon Port Dunrobin Castle, Clynelish Distillery Tour : $203
  • Speyside Distillery Tour From Inverness: $1,113


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lake District National Park and Inverness, we can see that Inverness is more expensive. And not only is Lake District National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lake District National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lake District National Park and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Inverness would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Inverness than you might in Lake District National Park.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Lake District National Park Expensive? and Is Inverness Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Lake District National Park or Inverness?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Inverness in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Lake District National Park as well as Inverness. Many travelers come to Lake District National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Inverness in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Lake District National Park is generally around the same temperature as Inverness. Daily temperatures in Lake District National Park average around 15°C (59°F), and Inverness fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

In the summer, Lake District National Park often gets more sunshine than Inverness. Lake District National Park gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Inverness receives 147 hours of full sun.

Lake District National Park usually gets more rain in July than Inverness. Lake District National Park gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Inverness receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Lake District National Park 15°C (59°F) 
    Inverness 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Inverness in the Autumn?

Both Inverness and Lake District National Park are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Lake District National Park in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Inverness for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere during these months.

Lake District National Park is around the same temperature as Inverness in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lake District National Park averages around 10°C (49°F) in October, and Inverness fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

Lake District National Park usually receives less sunshine than Inverness during autumn. Lake District National Park gets 69 hours of sunny skies, while Inverness receives 84 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Lake District National Park. In October, Lake District National Park usually receives more rain than Inverness. Lake District National Park gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Inverness receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Lake District National Park 10°C (49°F) 
    Inverness 9°C (49°F)

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Inverness in the Winter?

Both Inverness and Lake District National Park during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Lake District National Park for the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Inverness because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Inverness can be very cold. Lake District National Park can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Lake District National Park is around the same temperature as Inverness. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lake District National Park in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Inverness averages at about 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Lake District National Park often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Inverness. Lake District National Park gets 40 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Inverness receives 42 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Lake District National Park. Lake District National Park usually gets more rain in January than Inverness. Lake District National Park gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Inverness receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Lake District National Park 3°C (38°F) 
    Inverness 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Inverness in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Lake District National Park and Inverness. The spring months attract visitors to Lake District National Park because of the natural beauty. Furthermore, the small town charm are the main draw to Inverness this time of year.

In April, Lake District National Park is generally around the same temperature as Inverness. Daily temperatures in Lake District National Park average around 7°C (45°F), and Inverness fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Lake District National Park usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Inverness during spring. Lake District National Park gets 134 hours of sunny skies, while Inverness receives 136 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lake District National Park usually receives more rain than Inverness. Lake District National Park gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Inverness receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Lake District National Park 7°C (45°F) 
    Inverness 7°C (44°F)

Typical Weather for Inverness and Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park Inverness
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 165 mm (6.5 in) 3°C (38°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 3°C (38°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 136 mm (5.4 in) 5°C (41°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 7°C (44°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
May 10°C (51°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 10°C (50°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Jun 13°C (56°F) 93 mm (3.7 in) 13°C (55°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 14°C (58°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Aug 15°C (58°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 150 mm (5.9 in) 12°C (54°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 163 mm (6.4 in) 9°C (49°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 151 mm (5.9 in) 5°C (42°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 164 mm (6.5 in) 4°C (39°F) 52 mm (2 in)