A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Nottingham vs. Inverness for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Nottingham or Inverness?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Nottingham and Inverness can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Nottingham

Nottingham is a dynamic, livable, and cultural city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Inverness

Inverness is a local, historic, and cultural city. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Nottingham and Inverness: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Home to Loch Ness
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Nottingham or Inverness?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Nottingham. Although Nottingham and Inverness are popular destinations, Nottingham has more sights and attractions for tourists. Nottingham is very popular for its music and big city activities, while Inverness attracts visitors for its museums, food, and small town charm. Inverness is more touristy than Nottingham and is known for its surrounding countryside, but also its regional heritage, local festivals and proximity to the famous Loch Ness. Nottingham is famous for its authenticity and local cuisine. It is also well known for Old Market Square.

How is Nottingham different from Inverness?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nottingham or Inverness?

Nottingham
Inverness

Inverness is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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.

Nottingham offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. You'll find history and culture around town. Some of the notable landmarks include Wollaton Hall, the National Justice Museum, Nottingham Castle, and Old Market Square.


Is the Food Better in Nottingham or Inverness? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nottingham
Inverness

Inverness is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Nottingham has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find a diversity of restaurants around town that range from local fish and chips shops to international options. Pubs, cafes, and fine dining are all available in town.

Is Nottingham or Inverness Better for Nightlife?

Nottingham
Inverness

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Nottingham and Inverness.

Nottingham has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Head to the oldest pub in England, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, for a pint or check out one of the trendy clubs around town. The city is also a big sports town, so see if there are any sporting events going on while you're visiting.

If you're looking for night time activities Inverness has a few options to choose from. 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.

Is Nottingham or Inverness Better for Music?

Nottingham
Inverness

Nottingham is very good for its live music scene. However, Inverness is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Nottingham. Many of the best music concerts in the UK make there way to Nottingham. Check out Rock City, which hosts all kinds of concerts.

Inverness is not a live music destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Nottingham or Inverness?

Nottingham
Inverness

Shopping is a popular activity in both Inverness and Nottingham.

Nottingham is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Head to the Lace Market, which is a popular shopping area. You can also wander around the center of town on foot and head to the pedestrian streets that are often lined with independent shops or international chains.

Inverness is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Is Nottingham or Inverness Better for Families?

Nottingham
Inverness

Both Nottingham and Inverness are nice to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Nottingham. There are a number of parks and play areas that younger kids will enjoy. You can check out Wheelgate Park, White Post Farm, Rufford Abbey, or Sherwood Pines. Sundown Adventureland is a small theme park that's designed for younger kids under 10. If your kids are into museums, head to the Newark Air Museum.

Inverness offers lots of family activities. 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 Nottingham or Inverness Better for Couples?

Nottingham
Inverness

Both Nottingham and Inverness are nice destinations for a couple's getaway.

Nottingham is a nice destination for couples. You'll find the typical date night activities around town like arcades, minigolf, and some interesting restaurants. There are also parks where you can enjoy a stroll in nature.

Inverness makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Located in the Scottish Highlands, there ae many scenic spots and nice activities that couples can enjoy in the area.


Is Nottingham or Inverness Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nottingham
Inverness

Nottingham is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Inverness is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Nottingham has some very good public transit options. There are buses and trams around town that connect into the rail network. The multi-operator system is organized by the Robin Hood Network.

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

Is Nottingham or Inverness a more walkable city?

Nottingham
Inverness

Nottingham and Inverness both are superb when exploring on foot.

Nottingham is very walkable. It is trying to transform itself into a pedestrian-friendly city, and you'll find some areas that are particularly walkable. The city center is very compact and generally walkable.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Nottingham Worth Visiting? and Is Inverness Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Inverness or Nottingham?

How long in Nottingham or Inverness?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Nottingham and Inverness. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Inverness than in Nottingham. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Nottingham, and 1-3 days is enough time in Inverness.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Inverness than Nottingham 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 Inverness.


  • How many days in Nottingham or Inverness? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nottingham 1-2 
    Inverness 1-3

One day in Nottingham or Inverness?

You'll find nightlife and live music around the city of Nottingham. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nottingham has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

With museums and nightlife around the local city of Inverness, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Inverness, one day is sufficent for most.


A weekend in Nottingham or Inverness?

You'll find live music and food around the authentic destination of Nottingham. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Inverness, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Nottingham or Inverness?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the authentic city of Nottingham. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Inverness, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Nottingham or Inverness?

Nottingham is a popular choice for travelers. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Inverness is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Bicycle Tours in United Kingdom, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United Kingdom, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, Inverness or Nottingham?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Nottingham is £117, 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 Nottingham and Inverness in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nottingham £64
    Inverness £91
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nottingham £128
    Inverness £182
Compare Hotels in Nottingham and Inverness

Looking for a hotel in Nottingham 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 Nottingham


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: Nottingham Hotel Prices and Inverness Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nottingham £21
    Inverness £33

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nottingham

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Nottingham:

  • Derby to East Midlands Airport (EMA) - Departure Private Transfer: $38
  • Nottingham to East Midlands Airport Private Departure Transfer: $38
  • Private East Midlands Departure Transfer- Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $54
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Leicester-RoundTrip Private Transfer: $76
  • East Midlands Airport to Nottingham City Private Transfer: $76
  • Private Transfer from Glossop to Manchester Airport (MAN): $79
  • Private Transfer from Buxton to Manchester Airport (MAN): $86
  • Private Nottingham Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $96
  • Private Nottingham Arrival Transfer - Airport to Hotel / Accommodation: $96
  • Private Transfer from Derby to Manchester Airport (MAN): $191
  • Private Transfer from Nottingham to Manchester Airport (MAN): $223

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Inverness

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Inverness:

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Nottingham or Inverness?

Prices for flights to both Inverness and Nottingham 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
    Nottingham £36
    Inverness £49

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nottingham £28
    Inverness £44

Tours and Activities in Nottingham

Here are a few actual costs in Nottingham for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Nottingham Treasure Hunt Adventure - Robin Hood's Secret Stash: $9.44
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Chesterfield by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Stamford Town Guided Tours: $13
  • Nottingham Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $17
  • Nottingham Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $18
  • Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz Tour App: $19
  • Watson Fothergill Walk: Architecture of Victorian Nottingham Guided Tour: $25
  • Baroness Bolsover's Town Tour with Afternoon Tea: $31
  • Whatsapp Murder Mystery Interactive City Tour: $74
  • Private Immersive Play Wall Experience in Nottingham: $88
  • Stamford and Oakham Private Tour: $113
  • Stamford and Burghley House Private Tour: $138

Tours and Activities in Inverness

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

  • City Discovery App-Based Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $15
  • Inverness City Daily Walking Tour (11:30am, 2pm & 5:30pm): $15
  • Guided Walking Tour with a Local: $17
  • Northern Highlights Sightseeing Pass: $25
  • Loch Ness 1-Hour Cruise with Urquhart Castle Views: $27
  • Loch Ness and Caledonian Canal 2-Hour Cruise from Dochgarroch: $38
  • Glenaladale Cruise - Great for wizard spotting!: $38
  • Inverness Bike Tour a 2 hours guided bike tour around the Waterways of Inverness: $39
  • Gaskan cruise - Golden Eagles!: $44
  • Puffin Tour: $57
  • From Loch Ness Cruise and Urquhart Castle: $59

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nottingham £7.10
    Inverness £23

Sample the Local Flavors in Nottingham

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Nottingham:

  • Meet the Distiller Special and DropWorks Distillery Tour: $31
  • Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $47

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 Nottingham and Inverness, we can see that Inverness is more expensive. And not only is Nottingham much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Nottingham would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Nottingham 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 Nottingham.

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


Which is Bigger, Nottingham or Inverness?

Nottingham has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Inverness. When comparing the sizes of Nottingham and Inverness, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Nottingham or Inverness?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Nottingham or Inverness in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Nottingham and Inverness. Many visitors come to Nottingham in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Inverness for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Nottingham is a little warmer than Inverness. Typically, the summer temperatures in Nottingham in July average around 16°C (62°F), and Inverness averages at about 14°C (58°F).

Nottingham usually receives more sunshine than Inverness during summer. Nottingham gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Inverness receives 147 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Nottingham usually receives less rain than Inverness. Nottingham gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Inverness receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nottingham 16°C (62°F) 
    Inverness 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Inverness in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Nottingham as well as Inverness. Most visitors come to Nottingham for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Inverness because of the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

In October, Nottingham is generally a little warmer than Inverness. Daily temperatures in Nottingham average around 11°C (52°F), and Inverness fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

In the autumn, Nottingham often gets more sunshine than Inverness. Nottingham gets 112 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Inverness receives 84 hours of full sun.

Nottingham usually gets less rain in October than Inverness. Nottingham gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Inverness receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nottingham 11°C (52°F) 
    Inverness 9°C (49°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Inverness in the Winter?

Both Inverness and Nottingham are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Nottingham because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Inverness this time of year.

It's quite cold in Inverness in the winter. The weather in Nottingham can be very cold. Nottingham is a little warmer than Inverness in the winter. The daily temperature in Nottingham averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Inverness fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Nottingham usually receives more sunshine than Inverness during winter. Nottingham gets 61 hours of sunny skies, while Inverness receives 42 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Nottingham usually receives less rain than Inverness. Nottingham gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Inverness receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nottingham 4°C (39°F) 
    Inverness 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Inverness in the Spring?

Both Inverness and Nottingham during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city are the main draw to Nottingham this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Inverness for the small town charm.

In the spring, Nottingham is a little warmer than Inverness. Typically, the spring temperatures in Nottingham in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Inverness averages at about 7°C (44°F).

In the spring, Nottingham often gets more sunshine than Inverness. Nottingham gets 151 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Inverness receives 136 hours of full sun.

Nottingham usually gets more rain in April than Inverness. Nottingham gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Inverness receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nottingham 8°C (46°F) 
    Inverness 7°C (44°F)

Typical Weather for Inverness and Nottingham

Nottingham Inverness
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 3°C (38°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 3°C (38°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 5°C (41°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 7°C (44°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
May 11°C (53°F) 50 mm (2 in) 10°C (50°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Jun 15°C (58°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 13°C (55°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jul 16°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 14°C (58°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Aug 16°C (61°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 12°C (54°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (49°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 5°C (42°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 4°C (39°F) 52 mm (2 in)