Inverness: Outlander Tour, Culloden, Clava Cairns & more

Exploring the Outlander Landmarks: A Deep Dive into the Inverness-Specific Highland Tour

If you’re a fan of the Outlander series or just love discovering authentic Scottish sites, this Inverness-based Outlander-themed tour offers a compelling way to connect with the history and scenery that inspired the books and TV series. We haven’t done this exact tour ourselves, but the detailed itinerary and glowing reviews paint a vivid picture of what to expect: a well-organized day covering significant Highlands locations, narrated by knowledgeable guides with a passion for storytelling.

Three aspects stand out: the chance to stand on Culloden Moor where history was made, getting close to the prehistoric standing stones of Clava Cairns, and the opportunity to see the real-life Castle Leod, which inspired the fictional Castle Leoch. Plus, the stops at Beauly Priory and Wardlaw Mausoleum bring key Outlander narrative moments to life. However, one thing to consider is the tour’s limited access—some sites, like Castle Leod, are only open on select days, and entry fees aren’t included, which might impact your overall experience.

This tour is ideal for Outlander enthusiasts eager to walk in the footsteps of Jamie and Claire or travelers interested in Scottish history and scenery. It combines cultural insights, stunning landscapes, and a touch of TV magic into a manageable, full-day outing. If you’re after a balance of history, nature, and storytelling, this experience hits many of the right notes.

Key Points

• Authentic Locations: Visits to Culloden Moor, Clava Cairns, and Castle Leod bring the series to life.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance storytelling, sharing insights beyond the surface.
• Flexible Itinerary: Stops are carefully timed, balancing sightseeing with travel, though some sites have limited access.
• Authentic Scottish Scenery: Stunning Highland landscapes provide an immersive backdrop.
• Historical & Literary Focus: Perfect for Outlander fans, with sites tied closely to the books and series.
• Value & Convenience: Price includes multiple key sites, but entry fees are extra, which is typical for tours like this.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

Start and Transportation: The tour begins with a pick-up in Inverness, which is highly convenient if you’re already based there. The transport is likely a private group vehicle, making the journey intimate and comfortable. The full-day duration of around 8 hours allows you to cover each location without feeling rushed, though it’s wise to bring snacks and water, as breaks are timed and limited.

Culloden Moor: Your first major stop, Culloden, is a site that practically breathes history. The external battlefield walk lasts about 1.5 hours, giving ample time to absorb the poignant atmosphere of this historic site. Many travelers appreciated the guided commentary, noting that the guide added context about the Jacobite uprising and the significance of the battlefield. One reviewer mentioned, “The guide’s storytelling at Culloden made the history come alive in a way textbooks never could.”

Clava Cairns: Next, the prehistoric standing stones of Clava Cairns offer a stark contrast—mystical, ancient, and photogenic. The brief 30-minute visit is perfect for snapping photos and soaking in the eerie, timeless vibe. Reviewers loved the atmospheric setting, with one saying, “Standing among those stones, you can almost hear the whispers of ancient Scots.”

Culloden House & Castle Leod: The drive-by of Culloden House provides a glimpse into the aristocratic past, with a quick 5-minute photo stop. Then, the real highlight for Outlander fans is Castle Leod, the actual seat of the Chief of Clan Mackenzie. While the castle’s interior isn’t always accessible, the 15-minute photo stop means you can admire the exterior architecture and imagine Jamie and Claire’s adventures there.

Beauly Priory & Wardlaw Mausoleum: These stops deepen the historical connection. Beauly Priory, where Claire met Maisri in the series, is a peaceful ruin with a storybook charm. The Wardlaw Mausoleum, where Simon Fraser (Lord Lovat) is buried, is a more somber spot that offers insight into the clan’s history. A reviewer pointed out that “standing at Lord Lovat’s burial site, I felt the weight of Highland clan stories and the series’ lore all at once.”

Additional Potential: Depending on the weather and physical ability, you might visit a recently uncovered standing stone overlooking Inverness. This site, praised by Diana Gabaldon, adds an extra layer of authenticity and magic. It’s a chance to see what inspired the series’ narrative and get some memorable photos.

Inverness & Jacobite History: The tour concludes with a visit to locations tied to the Jacobite Uprising, rounding out a full picture of Highland conflicts and stories that shaped the region.

Practical Details and Value

Pricing & Inclusions: The tour includes external visits to all key sites—Culloden Moor, Clava Cairns, Castle Leod, Beauly Priory, and the Wardlaw Mausoleum—plus a drive-by of Culloden House. It offers the convenience of a private group, which means more personalized attention. While entry fees aren’t included, this allows travelers to decide whether to visit interior attractions, making the experience flexible and budget-friendly.

Duration & Timing: With 8 hours allotted, you’ll have enough time to explore without feeling rushed. Start times vary, so checking availability is advised. It’s a full, immersive day but tailored to fit comfortably into a typical Highland itinerary.

Guide Quality: Guided by a knowledgeable local, the tour guides seem to excel at storytelling—adding depth and context to each site. Their commentary often includes personal insights, making history feel alive rather than just a series of dates and names.

Accessibility & Limitations: It’s important to note that the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, mainly because of site access constraints and walking terrain. Also, sites like Castle Leod are only open on certain days, so planning ahead is essential.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Take This Tour?

This Outlander-themed day trip is perfect for series fans eager to see the Highlands through the lens of the beloved books and TV show. It also suits travelers who appreciate a mixture of history, archaeology, and scenic vistas—really, a well-rounded Highland experience in one manageable day. If you’re interested in Highland clans, Jacobite history, or prehistoric sites, this tour will hit many of your must-see spots, all with the comfort of a private group.

If you’re looking for a deep dive inside castles or prefer self-guided visits with maximum flexibility, this might not be the best fit, as some sites have limited access and extra fees. Still, for those wanting to maximize their Highland storytelling and scenic experience, this tour offers excellent value and memorable moments.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of this tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting from Inverness, with scheduled stops along the way.

Are entry fees to the sites included?
No, entry fees are not included in the ticket price. The tour covers external visits and drive-bys; if you want to go inside places like Castle Leod, those costs are extra.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It’s generally not suitable for wheelchair users, mainly due to site access and walking terrain. Children might enjoy the experience, but it’s best suited for those comfortable with moderate walking.

Can I visit Castle Leod on this tour?
Yes, there’s a scheduled stop at Castle Leod, but note that it is only open on certain days. The stop is mainly for photos and viewing the exterior.

Is the tour private or shared?
This is a private group experience, which means more personalized attention and fewer fellow travelers.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera are highly recommended. Scotland’s weather can be unpredictable!

What are some highlights reviewers loved?
Many appreciated the storytelling at Culloden Moor, the atmospheric standing stones of Clava Cairns, and the chance to see the actual sites that inspired Outlander.

How much does the tour cost?
Pricing varies; keep in mind that entrance fees are not included. The experience offers good value for the comprehensive sites covered.

Is there a chance to see additional sites?
Depending on weather and physical ability, you might visit a recently uncovered standing stone overlooking Inverness, which adds an extra layer of authenticity to the tour.

To sum it up, this Outlander-themed tour from Inverness bridges the gap between Scottish history, scenic beauty, and TV storytelling. It’s best suited for fans of the series and history buffs alike who want a full, enriching day exploring iconic Highlands locations with a knowledgeable guide. The combination of carefully selected stops, manageable timing, and personal attention makes it an experience worth considering if you want to connect more deeply with the stories and landscapes that make the Scottish Highlands so captivating.

You can check availability for your dates here: