Inverness: The Cairngorms, Culloden, and Speyside Whisky Tour

Inverness: The Cairngorms, Culloden, and Speyside Whisky Tour

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About This Tour in Inverness

This one-day tour from Inverness takes you to some of the most important historical sites in the North of Scotland. Discover how battles were fought and lands defended in Scotland's past, all while travelling through some of the most spectacular scenery in the Cairngorms and learning about how the Whisky Industry shaped the area. Our first stop is Culloden Battlefield, where the Jacobite Rising came to an end. After this, we head to Clava Cairns – giving a glimpse into what life was like over 4000 years ago. We then travel to Fort George, an imposing fort built in the wake of the Battle of Culloden that you will have already learned all about at the previous stops. We then head to the iconic Brodie Countryfare for lunch. After lunch, we’ll head to Cardhu Distillery. Founded in 1824 by a whisky smuggler and his wife, this Speyside Distillery. After enjoying Cardhu, we’ll begin our journey home to Inverness, taking time to drive through the stunning Cairngorms.

Why Visit Inverness?

Inverness, Scotland offers a wealth of attractions, cultural experiences, and activities for visitors. From historic landmarks to modern attractions, Inverness provides an unforgettable travel experience with something to discover around every corner. Explore local cuisine, discover unique culture, and create lasting memories in this remarkable destination.

Getting to Inverness

You can reach Inverness, Scotland by air, train, or road depending on your starting location. The city offers various transportation options including taxis, public transit, and private transfers to help you reach your destination. Many hotels can arrange airport transfers, and local transportation options vary by location.

What's Included

  • Driver/guide
  • Live commentary on board

What's Not Included

  • Attraction Tickets to Fort George (£9.50)
  • Gratuities
  • Food and drinks

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Additional Information

  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Please arrive a minimum of 15 minutes before your tour's departure time.
  • Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately.
  • Minimum age is 4 years old.
  • Collapsible wheelchairs with removable wheels can be accommodated providing the passenger is accompanied by someone who can assist them board and disembark.
  • If you are driving, we recommend parking at the Old Town Rose Street Multi-Storey Car Park, 24 Rose St, IV1 1NQ, conveniently located next to our departure point.
  • There will be an itinerary change from April 2026. The tour will include a tour at Cardhu Distillery

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Meeting and Pickup

Meeting Point

Departing in the morning, our day begins with a short tour of Inverness before continuing to our first stop: the Culloden Battlefield

Railway Terrace, Inverness, IV1 1NW. Look out for our coach or our sign on the lamp post.

End Point

Railway Terrace, Inverness, IV1 1NW. Look out for our coach or our sign on the lamp post.

Pickup Information

Pickup Option: All travelers must meet at start point

Itinerary

Tour Itinerary

Departing in the morning, our day begins with... 45 minutes

Departing in the morning, our day begins with a short tour of Inverness before continuing to our first stop: the Culloden Battlefield. One of the most emotive and important battlefields in Scotland's history, where the 1745 Jacobite Rising came to a tragic end. Learn all about the history of the battlefield here, step onto it for yourself, and even explore any family ancestry and connections you may have to the area (optional extra).

Afterwards, we will head to the Clava Cairns... 20 minutes

Afterwards, we will head to the Clava Cairns – the preserved remains of a much larger complex used to house the dead. Dating back over 4000 years, the Cairns offer a fascinating insight into the society of Scotland in the Bronze Age. Fans of Outlander may want to explore the prehistoric stone circle, which served as the inspiration for Craigh Na Dun in the book and TV series.

We then travel to Fort George (optional extra),... 1 hour 30 minutes

We then travel to Fort George (optional extra), an imposing fort built in the wake of the Battle of Culloden that you will have already learned about at the previous stops. This massive fortification took over 22 years to build and is a must for any military history enthusiast, as it is home to the largest regimental museum outside of Edinburgh. Fort George is still in use as an active army base and home to the Black Watch, 3rd Battalion, The Royal Regiment of Scotland.

We’ll continue our journey through the beautiful Scottish... 1 hour 20 minutes

We’ll continue our journey through the beautiful Scottish Highlands, stopping for lunch at the iconic Brodie Countryfare, where you’ll have the opportunity to dine on local produce and browse their range of luxury goods.

After lunch, we’ll head to Cardhu Distillery 1 hour 30 minutes

After lunch, we’ll head to Cardhu Distillery. Founded in 1824 by a whisky smuggler and his wife, this Speyside Distillery now plays a key part in Johnnie Walker blended whiskies, with the name Cardhu deriving from the words for “Black Rock” in Gaelic. You’ll have the opportunity to experience their Cardhu Flavour Journey (Optional Extra), where you’ll learn the history of the Distillery and its founders and get to sample 3 whiskies and a highball cocktail.

After enjoying Cardhu, we’ll begin our journey home... 2 hours

After enjoying Cardhu, we’ll begin our journey home to Inverness, taking time to drive through the stunning Cairngorms, the largest national park in Britain. You’ll be able to enjoy views of the lush greenery and some of Scotland’s most iconic hills and mountains as we pass through the charming towns of Grantown-on-Spey and Carrbridge. After this final scenic stretch through the Highlands, we arrive back in Inverness early evening, where your tour comes to an end. The perfect time to head out for dinner or a relaxed evening in the city.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cancellation policy?

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

How do I book this tour?

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Is this tour suitable for all ages?

Please check the age requirements and physical fitness level requirements listed in the tour details above. Some tours may have age restrictions or require a certain level of physical fitness.

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