Cawdor Castle, Inverness, Culloden, Outlander and Loch Ness Tour

The Cawdor Castle, Inverness, Culloden, Outlander and Loch Ness Tour offers an engaging way to explore some of the most iconic sights in the Scottish Highlands in a single day. Priced at $178.05 per person, this 6 to 8-hour tour departs from Invergordon, making it a practical choice for cruise passengers or travelers short on time. The tour features visits to famous locations such as Cawdor Castle, which is linked to Shakespeare’s Macbeth, Culloden Battlefield, where the historic Jacobite uprising took its final stand, and Loch Ness, home to the legendary Nessie.

A key strength of this tour is its well-designed itinerary, which packs in many highlights with scenic drives, informative commentary, and photo opportunities. The tour is led by knowledgeable guides, with the latest positive reviews praising their ability to blend history, humor, and local insights. While the tour emphasizes convenience by transporting guests comfortably on a bus, it is worth noting that some may find the pace quite fast, and the Outlander locations may not be as prominent as hoped, according to some reviews.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: Priced at $178.05, the tour lasts 6 to 8 hours, perfect for a day trip.
• Start Location: Begins in Invergordon, ideal for cruise ship passengers.
• Major Stops: Features Cawdor Castle, Culloden Battlefield, Inverness, Loch Ness, and Beauly Priory.
• Highlight: Includes a search for Nessie on Loch Ness, with a chance for photos at the famous loch-side lay-by.
• Guides: Highly praised for their knowledge and humor, with guides like Mo, June, and Seoris earning strong reviews.
• Tour Experience: Focuses on the Scottish Highlands’ history, scenery, and Outlander film locations.

Starting Point: Invergordon and the Meeting Arrangements

The tour departs from 37 Shore Rd, Invergordon, a convenient pickup point for cruise passengers docking at Invergordon port. The group size is limited to 53 travelers, ensuring a comfortable environment for sightseeing and commentary. The return is to the same meeting point, making logistics straightforward for those on a tight schedule.

Exploring Culloden Battlefield and Nearby Sights

The tour begins with a trip to Culloden Battlefield, a site steeped in Scottish history. Visitors have about 45 minutes here to walk on the grounds and reflect on the final battle of the 1746 Jacobite uprising. Nearby, a half-hour stop at Clava Cairns offers a chance to view prehistoric burial sites, adding a layer of ancient history to the itinerary. The Culloden and Nairn viaduct, designed by Murdoch Paterson, also provides excellent photo opportunities, especially for those interested in engineering and architecture.

Visiting Cawdor Castle and its Gardens

The highlight for many is Cawdor Castle, where the admission fee is included. This lived-in castle, made famous by William Shakespeare’s Macbeth, features spectacular gardens and a guided audio tour in your language. The 1 hour 30 minutes spent here allows guests to explore both the castle interior and its lush grounds, with plenty of photo options. The castle’s connection to Scottish legend and literature makes it a fascinating stop.

Inverness: City Walk and Historic Sights

The tour provides a flexible drop-off in Inverness, lasting 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the schedule. Visitors can walk through the city’s streets, visit shops, or admire historic churches. Scenic views of Inverness Castle and the Inverness Cathedral are highlights, although castle photos are only permitted externally until 2024 due to ongoing renovations. The city’s historic charm makes it a pleasant break in the day’s pace.

Beauly Priory and Clan Fraser Landmarks

En route back toward Loch Ness, the tour makes a drive-by of Beauly Priory, built in 1230 by a French monastic order. The ruins are steeped in history, and the site is associated with Mairi from Outlander. The priory is also the burial ground for Clan Fraser chiefs, linking it to the fictional Jamie Fraser. Time permitting, the group may stop for photos or brief visits to this atmospheric ruin.

Passing Inverness Landmarks and Photo Stops

The bus journey also includes passing Inverness Town Hall, Inverness Castle, and Inverness Cathedral, with photo opportunities of these historic structures. While interior visits are limited during this tour, these landmarks add context to the city’s historical landscape and are popular for capturing scenic shots.

Loch Ness and the Hunt for Nessie

A major highlight is the 30-minute cruise along Loch Ness, where the goal is to spot the legendary Nessie. The scenic ride offers stunning views of the loch, with cameras ready for possible sightings. The most recent notable footage shows an animal similar to Nessie, keeping the hope alive for a future photograph. The loch-side lay-by provides a convenient spot for photos, though paddling in Loch Ness is not permitted due to its steep hillside surroundings.

Visiting Robertson’s Farm Shop and Highland Cows

The final stop is at Robertson’s Farm Shop in Beauly, where visitors can see Highland cows Jamie and Katie-Morag. This 20-minute visit offers a relaxed chance to experience local farm life, take photos of the iconic cattle, and pick up souvenirs or snacks before heading back to Invergordon.

Tour Logistics and Practical Considerations

The tour is designed for ease of use, with near public transportation options at the meeting point. The mobile ticket system simplifies check-in, and free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. The average booking window is 73 days, reflecting strong interest, and most travelers find the tour suitable, with guides like Mo, June, and Seoris earning praise for their knowledge, humor, and flexibility.

What Sets This Tour Apart

This all-in-one day trip offers a comprehensive sampler of Scotland’s highlights, from battlefields and castles to scenic lochs and film locations. Its value proposition lies in the convenience of transportation and multiple key sites without the need for separate bookings. The inclusion of Cawdor Castle and the Loch Ness cruise makes it particularly appealing to history buffs and Outlander fans alike.

Final Thoughts on the Cawdor Castle, Inverness, Culloden, Outlander and Loch Ness Tour

This tour provides a rich and varied experience of the Scottish Highlands in a manageable timeframe. Its strong guides and carefully curated stops create an engaging day for those short on time or wanting a broad overview. The pace may be brisk, and some attractions, like the Outlander filming sites, may not be as prominent as some expect. However, the mixture of history, scenery, and local charm makes it a solid choice for visitors eager to see Scotland’s most famous sights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for cruise ship passengers?
Yes, it is designed specifically with Invergordon cruise ship passengers in mind, with convenient pickup and drop-off at the port.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 6 to 8 hours, providing ample time to visit all the key stops comfortably.

What locations are included on this tour?
Stops include Culloden Battlefield, Clava Cairns, Cawdor Castle, Inverness, Beauly Priory, Loch Ness, and Robertson’s Farm Shop.

Can I see Loch Ness Monster?
While sightings are rare, the 30-minute Loch Ness cruise offers a good chance to spot Nessie, and recent footage has kept the mystery alive.

Are food and drinks available during the tour?
While the tour does not include lunch, there is time at Cawdor Castle and the farm shop for snacks or refreshments.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews highlight guides like Mo, June, and Seoris for their expertise, humor, and ability to adapt the schedule.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

What’s the maximum group size?
The group is limited to 53 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience with personal attention.

Is the tour accessible for all physical abilities?
Most travelers can participate, but specific accessibility details are not provided, so it’s best to inquire if mobility is a concern.

How do I book this tour?
Booking is easy through the provider Thistle Excursions, with options to confirm in advance and secure a spot well ahead of time.