Invergordon: Cawdor Castle, Culloden, and Loch Ness Tour

The "Invergordon: Cawdor Castle, Culloden, and Loch Ness Tour" promises an immersive journey through Scotland’s captivating history and breathtaking landscapes. Travelers embark on a guided exploration of iconic sites, from the haunting Culloden Battlefield to the enchanting Cawdor Castle, while also indulging in the enigmatic charm of Loch Ness. With a flexible itinerary and insightful commentary, this tour offers an accessible and tailored experience that’s sure to captivate the senses. What secrets and stories await those who venture on this remarkable expedition?

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Key Points

A 7-hour guided tour departing from Invergordon at 9 AM or 10 AM, visiting Culloden Battlefield, Cawdor Castle, Inverness, and Loch Ness.
Tour pricing is £135 for adults and £115 for children, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Highlights include exploring Cawdor Castle, learning about the Culloden Battlefield, and opportunities for Nessie sightings at Loch Ness.
Transportation options include a 49-seater bus, minivan, or car, with wheelchair accessibility.
The tour is led by knowledgeable professionals, providing insights into Scottish culture and history, and can be adjusted to accommodate cruise ship schedules.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Invergordon: Cawdor Castle, Culloden, and Loch Ness Tour is a 7-hour excursion that departs at either 9 AM or 10 AM, depending on the cruise ship’s docking schedule.

A 7-hour excursion departing at 9 AM or 10 AM, depending on the cruise ship’s docking schedule.

The tour is priced at £135 for adults, £115 for children, and infants up to 2 years old are free. Guests can reserve the tour now and pay later.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour offers transportation options, including a 49-seater bus, minivan, or car (4-8 seats), and is wheelchair accessible.

Looking for more options in Invergordon? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Itinerary Highlights

Starting at 37 Shore Rd, the tour takes guests to several notable destinations throughout the day.

The first stop is Culloden Battlefield, where visitors can explore the site of the last battle on British soil in 1746 and an Outlander filming location for 30 minutes.

Next, the tour visits Cawdor Castle, allowing 105 minutes to tour the inside and outside, including the gardens and maze, and learn about its connections to Shakespeare’s MacBeth.

In Inverness, guests have 1.5 hours to browse shops, bars, and see the Inverness Castle, as well as the statue of Flora MacDonald.

Finally, the tour makes a 15-minute stop at Loch Ness for scenic views and potential Nessie sightings.

Key Attractions

Cawdor Castle, with its connections to Shakespeare’s MacBeth, invites visitors to explore its interior and lush gardens. Guests can wander through the castle’s halls, admiring its grand architecture and historic charm.

The adjacent gardens and hedge maze offer opportunities for relaxing strolls.

Nearby, the Culloden Battlefield stands as a poignant reminder of the last battle on British soil in 1746. This Outlander filming location allows visitors to enjoy the region’s turbulent past.

In Inverness, travelers can discover the city’s shops, bars, and the iconic Inverness Castle, currently undergoing renovation.

Loch Ness, with its scenic views and possible sightings of the legendary Nessie, provides photo opportunities near the imposing Urquhart Castle.

Tour Experience

Although the tour is guided by knowledgeable professionals, visitors have the flexibility to explore the sites at their own pace and take in the rich history and stunning scenery.

The live tour guide provides insightful commentary on Scottish culture and history, enhancing the overall experience. The tour is wheelchair accessible, ensuring accessibility for all guests.

The live tour guide offers insightful commentary on Scottish culture and history, making the experience more enriching. The tour is wheelchair accessible, catering to all guests.

While meal options are limited during the tour, visitors are welcome to bring a packed lunch to enjoy during the breaks.

The tour can also be shortened to accommodate ship departure times, ensuring a seamless experience for cruise passengers.

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Important Information

The meeting point for the tour is opposite the exit gates at the port, where visitors should follow the signs from their cruise ship.

Guests should provide a phone number for communication on the tour date in case of any issues or changes.

The tour can be shortened to accommodate ship departure times, ensuring customers make it back to their vessel on time.

Certain flexibility is available to ensure the experience fits each group’s needs.

There's plenty more to explore in Invergordon

Cawdor Castle

| Features | Description |

| — | — |

| Exterior | Quintessential medieval castle with towers, turrets, and stunning gardens |

| Interior | Ornate rooms, impressive great hall, and meticulously preserved period furnishings |

| Gardens | Intricate maze, vibrant floral displays, and tranquil woodland walks |

| Connections | Explore the legends surrounding Macbeth and his alleged murderous deeds |

| Duration | Visitors can spend up to 105 minutes exploring the castle and its grounds |

Culloden Battlefield

After exploring the grandeur of Cawdor Castle, the tour moves on to the historic Culloden Battlefield.

This was the site of the last battle on British soil in 1746, where the Jacobite forces were decisively defeated by the British government army.

Visitors can:

Walk the moors and learn about the events leading up to the battle.
Visit the Visitor Centre and museum to understand the Jacobite cause and the battle’s aftermath.
Pay respects at the memorial cairns for the various clans.
Explore the battlefield itself, now a peaceful and somber landscape with powerful historical significance.

Loch Ness

One of the final stops on the tour is the iconic Loch Ness, home to the legendary Loch Ness Monster. Visitors are given 15 minutes to admire the scenic loch and search for Nessie. While a sighting is unlikely, the stunning views of the legendary body of water are sure to impress.

| Loch Ness Facts | |

| — | — |

| Depth | 230 meters (755 feet) |

| Length | 23 miles (37 km) |

| Width | 1.7 miles (2.7 km) |

The tour then ventures through the breathtaking Scottish Highlands, providing one last chance to capture the natural beauty of this iconic region before returning to Invergordon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no specific dress code for the tour. Visitors should dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather conditions, as the tour involves both indoor and outdoor activities across various historical sites.

What Types of Activities Are Available at Loch Ness?

At Loch Ness, visitors can enjoy scenic views, take photos, and look for the famous Loch Ness Monster. There are also boat tours and cruises available for a closer look at the lake and its surroundings.

Can We Stop for Lunch at a Local Restaurant?

The tour only allows limited time for cafe meals, so you will need to bring a packed lunch. While there may not be an opportunity to stop at a local restaurant, the scenic Loch Ness views make for a picturesque picnic setting.

Are There Any Discounts for Seniors or Students?

There are no specific senior or student discounts mentioned for this tour. However, children (up to 2 years) can join the tour for free. The regular adult price is £135, while the child price is £115.

Can We Customize the Tour Itinerary to Our Preferences?

Yes, the tour can be customized to accommodate personal preferences. Guests can discuss their interests with the tour provider and request modifications to the itinerary, subject to availability and time constraints.

The Sum Up

The "Invergordon: Cawdor Castle, Culloden, and Loch Ness Tour" offers a captivating journey through Scotland’s rich history and stunning landscapes. Visitors can explore the enchanting Cawdor Castle, enjoy the history of the Culloden Battlefield, and enjoy the scenic beauty of Loch Ness, all while benefiting from the flexibility and accessibility of a guided tour tailored to their needs.