Culloden Moor ranks high among Scotland’s must-visit sites for travelers interested in history, scenery, and legends. It’s not just a battlefield; it’s a place where stories of clans, conflicts, and myths come alive. The area draws visitors eager to learn about the last pitched battle on British soil, but many also crave a taste of the surrounding Highland landscapes and cultural tales. From guided battlefield walks to Outlander-themed excursions, the variety of tours makes it easy to tailor your day to your interests. If you’re a history buff or a fan of Scottish series, some tours even combine those passions seamlessly. For example, the Inverness: Loch Ness, Outlander & Whisky Distillery tour offers a mix of legendary Loch Ness stories, whisky tasting, and Culloden’s historic landscape—making it a well-rounded day trip.
Many tours in Culloden Moor focus on immersive experiences—whether walking the battlefield, exploring castles, or visiting prehistoric sites like Clava Cairns. Some are full-day adventures, while others are shorter, half-day excursions ideal for fitting into a busy itinerary. The tours listed here cater to different budgets, interests, and levels of activity, helping you find the right fit for your Scottish Highlands adventure.
Below, you’ll find six of the best tours in Culloden Moor, each with its own focus and charm. Whether you want a comprehensive, all-day experience or a quick taste of Highland legends, this list has a lot to offer.
1. Inverness: Loch Ness, Outlander & Whisky Distillery
At number 1, this 9-hour trip from Inverness combines Loch Ness boat cruises, visits to Urquhart Castle, and a whisky tasting at the Singleton of Glen Ord Distillery. It’s a well-rounded day for those who want to soak in Highland scenery, history, and culture. The tour also includes a stop at Clava Cairns, a prehistoric site that inspired Outlander fans, and a visit to Culloden Battlefield—the site of the infamous 1746 Jacobite uprising.
What makes this tour stand out is its balanced mix of activities: a cruise on Loch Ness with the chance to spot “Nessie,” a guided exploration of Urquhart Castle ruins, and a whisky tasting that’s both fun and informative. The tour’s guide is friendly and knowledgeable, making history come alive. Plus, the schedule includes a lovely lunch in Beauly, a charming village with a historic priory. The highlight for many is walking among the ancient stones at Clava Cairns, which feels like stepping into a real-life Outlander scene. The visit to Culloden Battlefield is deeply moving, offering insight into Scotland’s most famous military clash. With a 4.8-star rating from 112 reviews, it’s clear many travelers find this tour offers excellent value and memorable experiences.
Bottom Line: This tour suits history lovers, Outlander fans, and those who want a full Highland experience in just one day.
2. Loch Ness, Cawdor Castle, Outlander Sites & More from Inverness
At number 2, this 5-hour guided tour is perfect for travelers with limited time who still want a solid Highland experience. Priced at $182 per person, it offers a taste of Loch Ness, Cawdor Castle, and the Culloden Battlefield, with a maximum group size of 7 for a more intimate feel.
This tour’s charm lies in its concise, focused itinerary. You’ll start with a guided tour of Culloden Battlefield, where your guide shares insights into the Jacobite uprising and the battle’s brutal aftermath. Then, explore the prehistoric Clava Cairns, famous for their role in Outlander. Next, visit Cawdor Castle, known for its Shakespearean fame and beautiful gardens. The tour wraps up with a stop at Loch Ness, where you get time to take photos and perhaps scan the waters for Nessie. The guide, Johnny, is praised for his friendly demeanor, humor, and ability to customize the experience, making this a favorite among travelers seeking a personal touch.
This tour is ideal for those who want a quick but meaningful Highland trip. It balances history, legend, and scenery without feeling rushed. The small group size ensures personal attention and flexibility.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers short on time but eager for a well-rounded Highland experience with a personable guide.
3. Castles, Culloden, and Nessie: A Day of Highland Legends
At number 3, this 8-hour private group tour taps into Scottish legends and castles with a focus on scenic and historic highlights. Priced at $1,816 for up to four people, it’s a more luxurious, personalized option that emphasizes exclusivity. The trip includes visits to Inverness Castle, Cawdor Castle, and the Culloden Battlefield, along with stops at Beauly Priory and Loch Ness.
The tour’s standout features are its tailored approach and focus on engineering marvels like the Culloden Viaduct. The guided stops at Cawdor Castle and Inverness Castle are informative, with the latter offering views over the city. The inclusion of a farm shop visit with Highland cows and a tasting at Robertsons The Larder adds a culinary element. The itinerary offers a good balance of history, architecture, and Highland scenery.
Ideal for travelers with a higher budget who want a private, immersive experience, this tour also suits those interested in Highland engineering feats and Scottish lore. The main drawback is its higher price point, but reviewers note it’s worth the personalized service and deeper insights.
Bottom Line: Perfect for couples or small groups seeking an exclusive, detailed Highland exploration with a touch of luxury.
4. Inverness: Culloden Battlefield and City Walking Tour
This 8-hour walking tour is designed for those who love history combined with city exploration. Priced at $605 for up to three people, it offers a deep dive into Culloden Battlefield and Inverness itself. Starting at Inverness Cathedral, the tour guides you through significant sites, describing the battlefield’s topography and the Jacobite’s story.
What makes this tour appealing is its focus on walking the battlefield, providing a more visceral understanding of the site. The guide also points out locations linked to Bonnie Prince Charlie and shows you around Inverness’s historic streets and landmarks. The 2.5-hour battlefield walk is complemented by a self-guided visit to the visitor center, allowing for reflection and personal exploration.
Great for history enthusiasts who enjoy a slow, detailed walk rather than bus rides, this tour offers a different perspective—more personal and in-depth. However, it requires good walking shoes and an interest in detailed history.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want an intimate, physical connection to Culloden and Inverness’s historic sites.
5. Inverness: Half-Day Highlands Bucket List Tour
For around $149 per person, this half-day tour packs a punch with key Highland sights. It covers Clava Cairns, Culloden Battlefield, and the Urquhart Castle ruins on Loch Ness. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a quick, impactful Highland experience without committing an entire day.
Highlights include a visit to Clava Cairns, where the Bronze Age burial site sparks imaginations. The tour also visits Culloden, walking through the historic battlefield and learning about the Jacobite risings. The ruins of Urquhart Castle on Loch Ness are a scenic highlight, with enough time for photos and a quick walk. The stop at the Great Glen Distillery for gin and ice cream tasting adds a tasty touch, making this tour a balanced mix of history and fun.
It’s suited for those on a tight schedule or looking for a budget-friendly trip that still hits the main Highland highlights. The shorter duration means less depth, but it offers a solid snapshot of the region.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a quick Highland fix without sacrificing key sights.
6. Outlander Tour
Finally, the Outlander Tour is a 10-hour journey designed for fans of the popular TV series and book series. Priced at $875 for groups up to four, it covers Culloden Battlefield, Clava Cairns, and Inverness, highlighting locations that inspired scenes in Outlander.
What makes this tour different is its thematic focus—fans get to walk where Claire and Jamie might have stood, and see the sites that shaped the story’s backdrop. It’s tailored for those interested in Scottish culture through the lens of Outlander, blending history with storytelling. The guide shares behind-the-scenes insights and helps bring the series’ locations to life.
Ideal for Outlander enthusiasts or travelers seeking a uniquely Scottish experience linked to a beloved show, this tour offers a personalized and narrative-driven approach. The 10-hour length makes it suitable for dedicated fans or those wanting an in-depth story experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for Outlander fans wanting to connect with Scotland’s legend-rich landscape through the lens of their favorite series.
How to Choose
When selecting a tour around Culloden Moor, consider your budget, time available, and interests. If you prefer a comprehensive day with whisky and castles, the Inverness: Loch Ness, Outlander & Whisky Distillery offers great value. For a shorter, more intimate experience, the Loch Ness, Cawdor Castle, Outlander Sites & More tour is ideal.
History buffs who want to walk the battlefield might prefer the Inverness: Culloden Battlefield and City Walking Tour, while Outlander fans should consider the Outlander Tour. Budget travelers may find the Half-Day Highlands Bucket List fits their needs, offering the main sights in a shorter trip.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred date and ensure a smooth experience.
Final Thoughts
Culloden Moor and its surroundings offer a rich mix of history, myth, and scenic beauty. Whether you’re drawn to the battlefield’s somber stories, the legends of Loch Ness, or the romance of Outlander, there’s a tour for you. The comprehensive day trips like the Inverness: Loch Ness, Outlander & Whisky Distillery appeal to those who want it all, while shorter options like the Half-Day Highlands Bucket List are perfect for quick visits. For fans, the Outlander Tour brings the series to life.
In the end, your choice depends on your interests and schedule, but no matter which tour you pick, you’ll come away with a richer understanding of Scotland’s Highland stories. Book early, and enjoy a memorable adventure in this legendary landscape.
