Otherworldly Inverness: A Walk Through Thresholds

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Otherworldly Inverness: A Walk Through Thresholds

Event Date:

April 24, 2026

Event Time:

12:30 PM GMT+0000

Event Location:

118 Glenurquhart Road,, Tomnahurich Entrance, Inverness, IV3 5PB

Event Description

Inverness is not just a city. It is a crossing place.

River and hill.
Sea and Mountains.
Past and present.
The seen and the half-remembered.

This 2.5-hour storytelling walk invites you to step into the thresholds of Inverness, where myth, folklore, history and landscape meet.

Our journey begins at Tomnahurich Hill, long held to be a gateway to the Otherworld. Here, among woodland paths and quiet gravestones, we explore the tale of the fiddlers who were invited in to play, and the deep-rooted connection between fairy lore, burial grounds, and the spaces between worlds.

From the hill, we descend toward the water.

Crossing the gentle footbridge of the Ness Islands, we step into another kind of threshold, land held within the watery flow. Here, stories of kelpies surface. Not only the darker tales of those drawn beneath the water, but also a rare Highland story in which a woman captures the kelpie, and transformation becomes a choice rather than a tragedy.

As we walk, we turn our attention to the mysterious people who once shaped this region. From the hillfort of Craig Phadrig to the symbol stones scattered across the Highlands, we explore the lingering presence of the Picts, a culture that still stands at the edge of knowing.

Along the way, you’ll hear of nearby stone circles and the quiet stories attached to them, of uncrossable thresholds. A reminder, perhaps, that the land remembers its alignments, even if those who live and work there do not.

Threaded throughout are tales of shaping forces, the Cailleach who forms mountains and seasons, or giants whose defeat left their mark in landscape and legend.

We end near the river and return gently to the everyday world, finishing at the Old High Church graveyard next to the famously well-loved Leakey’s Bookshop, a place where stories continue to live and breathe.

This is not an everyday tour.
It is a slow walk through layered ground.
A chance to notice where the veil feels thinner.

If you are drawn to folklore, myth, landscape, and meaning, and to experiencing Scotland beyond the spectacle, you are warmly invited to step into the story.

Practical Details:

Duration: approx. 2.5 hours
Pace: Unhurried, with regular pauses
Group Size: Small and intimate
Age Guidance: Suitable for ages 14 and over. The themes explored include folklore, history, and reflective storytelling that are best suited to older children and adults.
Terrain: Easy walking, gentle incline at Tomnahurich
Bring: Comfortable footwear, weather-appropriate layers, and curiosity
Weather: As we walk in Highland weather, drizzle can add atmosphere. However, in the event of official weather warnings or heavy rain the tour will be cancelled and a full refund issued.

Cancellation Policy

I accept cancellations:
• Full refund up to 7 days before
• 50% refund within 7 days
• No refund within 48 hours

Weather cancellations from our end:
• Full refund or option to transfer

For full details, see Terms & Conditions

Ticket Options
Adult
10 Tickets remaining
£25.00
Total Price : Free

Frequently asked questions

If you’re considering joining the walk, you may find your question answered below. If not, you’re always welcome to get in touch.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Scottish weather is part of the experience, and light rain can add atmosphere. However, if official weather warnings or conditions make the walk uncomfortable or unsafe, the tour will be cancelled and a full refund issued.

How much walking is involved?

The walk lasts approximately three hours in total, with around 1.5 hours of gentle, meandering walking. We pause regularly for storytelling and reflection. The route includes a gradual incline at the beginning and mostly easy paths thereafter.

What should I wear?

Please wear comfortable footwear suitable for uneven ground and dress in layers. Highland weather can change quickly, so it is wise to come prepared for rain, wind, or sunshine.

Is the tour suitable for children?

The walk is suitable for ages 14 and over. Themes explored include folklore, history, and reflective storytelling that are best suited to older children and adults.

What language is the tour conducted in?

All public tours are conducted in English.

What is the theme of this tour?

The Inverness walk explores the theme of thresholds, the spaces between worlds, past and present, land and water. If you are looking for a different theme or a tailored focus, private tours are available.

Do you offer private tours?

Yes. Private and bespoke tours can be arranged for groups wishing to explore a particular location, theme, or strand of Scottish folklore. These need to be arranged several weeks in advance. Please enquire to discuss availability.

What if I need to cancel? If you cancel:

• More than 7 days before the tour: Full refund
• 2–7 days before: 50% refund
• Less than 48 hours before: No refund

 

Full refunds are always issued if the tour is cancelled due to severe weather or unforeseen circumstances.