Invergordon: Cawdor Castle, Culloden, and Loch Ness Tour

Explore the Scottish Highlands: Cawdor Castle, Culloden, and Loch Ness in 7 Hours

The Invergordon: Cawdor Castle, Culloden, and Loch Ness Tour offers an engaging journey through some of Scotland’s most iconic sites in just 7 hours. For £135 per adult (with children aged 3-14 at £115 and infants under 2 free), this tour combines history, legends, and scenic beauty. The provider, Thistle Excursions Ltd, boasts a high rating of 4.8, reflecting dependable service and knowledgeable guides.

This tour is ideal for those eager to see Cawdor Castle, with its links to Macbeth, and to experience the mystique of Loch Ness. It also includes a visit to the significant Culloden Battlefield and a quick glimpse of Inverness, giving a well-rounded taste of the Scottish Highlands. Expect a comfortable ride in a bus or minivan, with flexible timings and plenty of time at each stop.

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Key Points

• 7-hour tour departing from Invergordon with live English-speaking guides
• Includes entrance to Cawdor Castle with an audio guide, Culloden Battlefield, and scenic Loch Ness views
• Price: £135 for adults, with options for children and infants
• A mix of history, legends, and scenery tailored for film and history enthusiasts
• Comfortable transport in a 49-seater bus or smaller vehicle depending on ship size
• Flexible schedule, ensuring plenty of time for each stop and return before ship departure

The Highlights of Cawdor Castle and Gardens

The tour begins with a visit to Cawdor Castle, renowned for its connection to William Shakespeare’s “Macbeth.” You gain inside access to the castle and gardens, which are included in the price. The castle is a medieval, furnished, lived-in residence, offering a glimpse into Scottish aristocratic life. Visitors can explore the castle’s interior, stroll through beautiful gardens, and enjoy the maze.

The 1.5-hour stay allows for ample time to appreciate the historic architecture and the lush surroundings. The gardens and the maze add a fun element, especially if traveling with family. The audio guide enhances the experience, providing contextual details about the castle’s history and its Shakespearean fame.

Visiting Culloden Battlefield and the Viaduct

Next, the tour passes by the Culloden Viaduct, built in 1893, which still carries train traffic today. This great photo opportunity offers scenic views of the Highlands’ rugged landscape.

The highlight here is the Culloden Battlefield, where the final battle on British soil took place in 1746. Visitors are free to roam the battlefield and reflect on this pivotal moment in Scottish history. The tour includes a stop at the shop and restaurant, giving you a chance to buy souvenirs or grab a quick bite. This site also features in Outlander, making it popular among fans of the series and historical enthusiasts alike.

Discover Inverness: City Views and Historical Sites

The journey continues into Inverness city center, where the castle’s new viewing gallery offers sweeping views across the city. The guide also points out Flora MacDonald’s statue near the castle (currently hidden during renovation), along with city shops and cafes.

A visit to the oldest bar in Inverness, the Gellions, dating back to 1841, provides a taste of local life. The guide points out references to Outlander based on Diana Gabaldon’s books, adding a literary dimension to the city tour. This segment is perfect for those interested in Scotland’s urban charm and cultural heritage.

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The Scenic Drive Along Loch Ness

The scenic part of the tour involves traveling 15 miles along Loch Ness, one of Scotland’s most famous bodies of water. The vehicle stops for photo opportunities of Loch Ness, where, if luck is on your side, you might catch a glimpse of Nessie. The tour also sometimes offers views of Urquhart Castle, depending on the day and where the group stops.

This drive showcases the vastness and beauty of the Highlands, with plenty of opportunities for memorable photos. The stopping points are timed to give you a good chance to enjoy the scenery and take in the legend of the elusive monster.

Practical Details: Transportation and Timing

The tour departs from opposite the port exit gates at 9 AM or 10 AM, depending on the ship’s docking time. It aims to return at least one hour before the ship’s departure, ensuring a stress-free experience for travelers. The vehicle is a 49-seater bus or smaller minivan, with 4 to 8 seats, depending on the group size and ship type.

The entire tour lasts between 6 and 7.5 hours, with the possibility to shorten the schedule if needed to match ship times. The guide ensures that everyone is back on time, providing a comfortable and well-paced experience.

What’s Included in the Price

The £135 ticket covers all entrance fees, including Cawdor Castle with an audio guide, as well as the guided tour of Culloden Battlefield and the scenic drive along Loch Ness. Infants up to 2 years travel free of charge, making it accessible for families with little children. The tour also features live English guides who provide engaging commentary throughout the day.

Bring a packed lunch if needed, as there’s limited time at cafes during the stops. The tour is wheelchair accessible, ensuring that guests with mobility needs can enjoy the highlights.

Why This Tour Shines

This 7-hour exploration of Scotland’s Highlands balances history, scenery, and culture. The inclusion of Cawdor Castle and its Shakespearean fame appeals to literature and history fans, while Culloden Battlefield offers a poignant glimpse into Scotland’s past. The drive along Loch Ness adds a touch of legend and natural beauty, with chances to spot Nessie or photograph the castle ruins.

The expert guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor, making the experience both informative and enjoyable. The comfort of transportation and timely schedule make this a reliable choice for cruise passengers or day-trippers in Invergordon.

Considerations for Potential Visitors

Travelers should consider bringing a packed lunch, as meal options are limited during the day. The schedule allows enough time at each stop, but some may find the speed of the tour a bit fast if they prefer a more leisurely pace. The vehicle size varies depending on the ship, so it’s good to check in advance if a smaller or larger vehicle suits your needs.

The tour’s focus on Scotland’s legends, castles, and history makes it ideal for those with an interest in film, literature, and Scottish culture. The scenic drive and outdoor stops provide excellent photo opportunities, so cameras or smartphones are recommended.

Highland Heritage and Modern Comfort Combined

The Invergordon: Cawdor Castle, Culloden, and Loch Ness Tour offers a well-rounded taste of Scotland’s storied past and breathtaking landscapes. It balances historical sites with scenic views, providing a comfortable and engaging experience.

While it may not cover every corner of the Highlands, it hits the essential highlights in a manageable timeframe. The value for money, combined with excellent reviews, makes this tour a reliable choice for those wanting to see some of Scotland’s most famous sights without overextending.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of this tour?
The tour lasts between 6 and 7.5 hours, depending on schedule adjustments and traffic.

What is included in the price?
The price £135 includes entrance to Cawdor Castle with an audio guide, visits to Culloden Battlefield, and scenic views along Loch Ness.

Is there an age limit for children?
Children up to 2 years old travel free, and the tour price for children aged 3-14 is £115.

What transportation is used?
The tour is conducted in a 49-seater bus, or a smaller vehicle with 4-8 seats depending on the ship size and group.

Can I customize the stop times?
The tour can be shortened to match your ship’s departure schedule or if preferred, leave later if the dock time is later than 9 AM.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for guests with mobility needs.

What should I bring?
It’s advisable to bring a packed lunch due to limited cafe stops, and camera or smartphone for photos.

When does the tour depart?
The tour departs at 9 AM or 10 AM from the port, depending on your ship’s docking time.

What is the guide like?
The guides are knowledgeable and friendly, providing engaging narration about Scotland’s history, legends, and sites.

Is this tour suitable for film and history fans?
Absolutely, with stops at Cawdor Castle, Culloden Battlefield, and mention of Outlander filming locations, this is perfect for fans of Scottish lore and TV series.

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