Secret Loch Ness, Inverness Castle visit, Culloden, Clava Cairns

Invergordon , Scotland

Secret Loch Ness, Inverness Castle visit, Culloden, Clava Cairns

Active

(142 reviews)

6h - 8h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

PLEASE NOTE: IF BOOKING THIS TOUR FOR 2026 Note you go to the newly refurbished Inverness castle.

This tour is DIFFERENT as it takes you to the very edge of Loch Ness where you can touch it or walk in, unlike nearly every other tour company who visit Loch Ness on the steep side, only stopping in a lay-by for photos.

This bus tour from Invergordon features highlights from Outlander, Culloden, Castles, Loch Ness & Nessie! It packs in a lot for one day's tour and is very affordable and good value for money. Our website contains full details of all tours and booking.

Please check the tour times on our website, as the times listed here are approximate. As a general rule tours leave 30 minutes to 1.5 hours after the arrival of the ship and return at least 1 hour before ship departure time. Please check our website for more details.

We try to take this tour in a 4, 8 or 16 or 33 seater vehicle. Thank you

Available options

Premier cruise tours in 2026

4-33 seater minibus

What's included

Entrance to castle cost is included in your booking price.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Visit the famous historic battlefield featured in Outlander series and book plus the visitor centre.

Stop 2

We may sometimes visit Clava cairns which was the inspiration for the book and tv series Outlander

Stop 3

Key Features
• Striking red sandstone towers above the river.
• North and South Towers, with commanding views over Inverness and the Great Glen.
• A statue of Flora MacDonald, heroine of the Jacobite Rising, stands outside, facing the River Ness.

Undergo the castle experience and Inverness shopping or history sites for 3 hours. Split your time between the two. Entry included into this magical new experience costing £40 million to refurbish.

You’ll look around the city seeing the old churches, shops, river Ness, castle, cathedral etc. - if you’re interested in Outlander the guide will point out these locations. Try local bars dating back to the 1800s. The Gellions and Black Friars.

See south Loch Ness and paddle in the clear waters. Stop off the beaten track at Dores which is a quaint village on the banks of Loch Ness. Bonus if you get to chat to Steve, the local Nessie hunter.

Visit a quaint farm shop near Beauly. Touch or feed Highland cows. Jamie and Katie-Morag wait you.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

83 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

59 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Wheelchair travellers difficult

Meeting point

In 2026 the cruise ships will dock at various locations but guests meet us at one point. At the west harbour pedestrian crossing lights on Shore Road. All the independent tour guides wait there so look for our Thistle Guides.

Important notes

You do not require any ticket for our tour. Once you book your name is on our schedule. Our tour guide will mark you down then you’ll be given a lanyard to show at the bus to enable access. We provide ticket for the castle later. It is very simple. Just turn up she tell us your booking lead name

About Invergordon

Invergordon is a charming town in the Scottish Highlands, known for its historic castle ruins, picturesque coastline, and as a gateway to the stunning landscapes of the north. It offers a blend of maritime heritage, scenic beauty, and outdoor activities.

Top Attractions

Invergordon Castle

The ruins of Invergordon Castle offer a glimpse into the town's medieval past. The castle was once a stronghold of the Bishops of Ross.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Invergordon Museum

This small but informative museum showcases the town's maritime and industrial history, including exhibits on the local shipbuilding industry.

Museum 1 hour Free (donations welcome)

Cromarty Firth

The Cromarty Firth is a stunning estuary offering beautiful coastal views, wildlife spotting, and various water activities.

Nature 2-3 hours Free (boat tours may have a fee)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Haggis

A traditional Scottish dish made from sheep's heart, liver, and lungs, mixed with onions, oatmeal, suet, and spices, traditionally cooked in a sheep's stomach.

Main Dish Not vegetarian or vegan, contains gluten

Cullen Skink

A creamy smoked haddock soup with potatoes and onions, originating from the nearby town of Cullen.

Soup Contains fish, gluten-free if made without oats

Shortbread

A traditional Scottish biscuit made from butter, sugar, and flour, often served with tea or coffee.

Dessert Vegetarian, contains gluten and dairy

Popular Activities

Hiking Boat tours Wildlife spotting Scenic walks Dining at local restaurants Visiting cafes Visiting museums Exploring historical sites

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the best time to visit Invergordon for pleasant weather and longer daylight hours, ideal for exploring the outdoors and attending local festivals.

12°C to 18°C 54°F to 64°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Scottish Gaelic
English: Widely spoken

Currency

British Pound (GBP)

Time Zone

GMT+0 (Greenwich Mean Time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Invergordon is generally safe, with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure, especially in crowded areas
• Be cautious of pickpockets, especially in tourist spots
• Use reputable taxi services and agree on fares in advance

Getting there

By air

Inverness Airport • 30 miles (48 km)

By train

Invergordon Station

By bus

Invergordon Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the primary mode of public transport, connecting Invergordon to surrounding towns and attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Local taxi apps

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Town Center Seafront

Day trips

Inverness

20 miles (32 km) • Half day

Inverness is the capital of the Highlands and offers a wealth of historical sites, museums, and shopping.

Cromarty

10 miles (16 km) • Half day

Cromarty is a charming coastal town known for its historic buildings, scenic views, and dolphin-spotting opportunities.

Festivals

Invergordon Highland Games • July Invergordon Christmas Market • December

Pro tips

Visit Invergordon Castle at different times of the day for the best photo opportunities
Try local seafood dishes, especially those featuring haddock from the Cromarty Firth
Explore the town's museums and historical sites to gain a deeper understanding of its maritime heritage
Take a boat tour to spot dolphins and other wildlife in the Cromarty Firth
Visit during the Highland Games for a lively and festive atmosphere