Inverness Castle, Clava, Culloden Battlefield and Loch Ness

Inverness , Scotland

Inverness Castle, Clava, Culloden Battlefield and Loch Ness

Active

(170 reviews)

5h - 7h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Explore the wild and beautiful Scottish Highlands on this small-group tour from Inverness or Invergordon. Following pickup from Inverness or Invergordon simply hop aboard an air-conditioned Minibus and head into nature. Visit the 4000 year old Outlander Stones that are Clava Cairns and the Culloden Battlefield and then head to the |Highland capitol of Inverness, to explore the Castle Museum. Then look out for Nessie as we head west along the famous shoreline of Loch Ness. Learn all about Highland Clan families and culture. This small-group tour is capped at seven people for a personal outing.
See many of the Highlands’ key attractions. Round-trip transit makes getting around seamless. See castles, battlefields, archaeological sites, and even Loch Ness

Available options

Inverness Castle, Clava, Culloden Battlefield and Loch Ness

What's included

Private transportation

WiFi on board

Air-conditioned vehicle

Local Guide

A wee Dram of Whisky if desired

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Our first stop will be to the Clava cairns.

Clava Cairns are a well-preserved Bronze Age cemetery complex of passage graves; ring cairns, kerb cairns and standing stones in a beautiful setting.

Clava Cairns or the Prehistoric Burial Cairns of Bulnuaran of Clava are a group of three Bronze Age cairns located near Inverness. A hugely significant and exceptionally well preserved prehistoric site, Clava Cairns is a fantastic example of the distant history of Highland Scotland, dating back about 4,000 years.

Stop 2

Our second stop... is a visit to the powerfully moving site of the final Jacobite Rising – the last and most harrowing pitched battle to be fought on British soil between Scotland and England. Explore the interactive visitor centre, view fascinating artefacts from both sides of the confrontation, and experience the battle in the immersive surround cinema. (Entry to this adventure is included in your ticket price)

On 16 April 1746, the final Jacobite Rising came to a brutal head. Jacobite supporters, seeking to restore the Stuart monarchy to the British thrones, gathered to fight the Duke of Cumberland's government troops. It was the last pitched battle on British soil and, in less than an hour, around 1,500 men were slain – more than 1,000 of them Jacobites.

a new visitor attraction in the centre of Inverness, celebrating the 'Spirit of the Highlands' through its stories of past, present and future.
The Inverness Castle Experience, a must-see visitor attraction opening in 2025.

Stop 4

Lets stop at the entry stairway down to the shoreline of the most famous Loch in the world. If you have no fear of the monster that may lurk below the water then why not dip a toe or two into the deceptively warm water.

Step into the smallest Gin distillery in Scotland and sample their world award winning Gin, while you listen to the incredible story of their local adventure leading up to the opening of this amazing Gin.
NOTE: The Distillery will be closed during the winter months

What's not included

No guarantee of Sunshine (This is Scotland) :)

Entry fee to Culloden Battlefield Museum

Entry Fee to Inverness Castle

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

128 reviews

5★

124

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

42 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

As you step off your ship simply turn right and follow the short path round to us at the Main gates.

About Inverness

Inverness is a historic city in the Scottish Highlands, known as the capital of the region. It offers a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, with the iconic Loch Ness and the Culloden Battlefield nearby. The city is a gateway to some of Scotland's most stunning landscapes and ancient sites.

Top Attractions

Inverness Castle

A historic castle overlooking the River Ness, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape.

Historical 1-2 hours £5

Loch Ness

A famous freshwater loch known for its deep, dark waters and the legendary Loch Ness Monster.

Nature Half day to full day Free to visit the loch, attractions vary in price

Culloden Battlefield

The site of the 1746 Battle of Culloden, the last pitched battle fought on British soil.

Historical 2-3 hours £14.50

Inverness Museum and Art Gallery

A museum showcasing the history, art, and culture of the Highlands.

Museum 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Haggis, Neeps and Tatties

A traditional Scottish dish made with haggis (a spiced sheep's offal pudding), mashed turnips (neeps), and mashed potatoes (tatties).

Dinner Contains meat and offal, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Cullen Skink

A creamy smoked haddock soup, traditionally made with potatoes, onions, and milk.

Lunch Contains fish, not suitable for those with fish allergies.

Cranachan

A traditional Scottish dessert made with whipped cream, raspberries, honey, and toasted oats.

Dessert Vegetarian-friendly, but contains dairy.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Highlands Boat tours on Loch Ness Visiting spas and wellness centers Strolling along the River Ness Exploring Inverness Museum and Art Gallery Attending local festivals and events Fishing in the River Ness Skiing and snowboarding in the Cairngorms

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the warmest and driest time of the year, with long daylight hours. It's ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the surrounding Highlands.

12°C to 18°C 54°F to 64°F

Practical Information

Language

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

Currency

Pound Sterling (GBP)

Time Zone

GMT (UTC+0) or BST (UTC+1) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Inverness is generally a safe city, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic safety precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight, especially in crowded areas.
• Be cautious when using ATMs, and avoid using them in isolated areas.
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services, and agree on a fare before starting your journey.

Getting there

By air

Inverness Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from city center

By train

Inverness Railway Station

By bus

Inverness Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus network covers the city and surrounding areas, with frequent services to major attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

City Center Ness Islands Leakey

Day trips

Culloden Battlefield

5 km (3 miles) • Half day

The site of the 1746 Battle of Culloden, the last pitched battle fought on British soil. The visitors center offers interactive exhibits and a museum.

Loch Ness

24 km (15 miles) • Full day

A famous freshwater loch known for its deep, dark waters and the legendary Loch Ness Monster. The Loch Ness Centre & Exhibition offers insights into the loch's history and geology.

Cairngorms National Park

60 km (37 miles) • Full day

The largest national park in the UK, offering a diverse range of landscapes, wildlife, and outdoor activities.

Festivals

Inverness Highland Games • May Inverness Christmas Market • December

Pro tips

Visit the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery to learn about the history and culture of the Highlands.
Take a boat tour on Loch Ness to search for the legendary Loch Ness Monster and explore the loch's stunning scenery.
Explore the Culloden Battlefield and visitors center to learn about the history of the 1746 Battle of Culloden.
Stroll along the River Ness and visit the Ness Islands for a peaceful and scenic escape from the city.
Sample local whisky and cuisine at one of Inverness's many pubs, restaurants, or whisky bars.