Outlander Tour from Inverness & Invergordon

Your guide will walk you through the events of April 16th 1746, bringing to life the chaos and heartbreak of the last pitched battle fought on British soil. As portrayed in Outlander, the Battle of Culloden marks the end of a way of life for the Highland clans, and the beginning of a harsh new era. You’ll hear about the real historical figures who inspired characters in the series and how the brutal aftermath of the battle shaped the world Claire and Jamie return to.

A highlight of this stop is visiting the Fraser Stone, a simple yet powerful tribute to the many members of Clan Fraser who fell on the field that day. Fans often find this moment deeply emotional, as it links fiction to fact and honours the legacy of those who inspired Jamie Fraser’s story.

Built around 4000 years ago, Clava Cairns is a remarkably well-preserved collection of passage graves, ring cairns, and standing stones, arranged in a circular pattern aligned with astronomical events. While it wasn’t the original inspiration for Craigh na Dun—Diana Gabaldon hadn’t yet visited Scotland when she wrote Outlander—she later remarked that Clava Cairns closely resembles the spot where Claire’s time-travelling journey begins.

For fans of the series, the highlight is the site’s distinctive split standing stone, remarkably similar to the one described in the books. Although purely coincidental, the setting’s proximity to Culloden and its ethereal energy make it easy to see why many feel this is where fiction and history collide. If you visit on Beltane and hear a hum from the stones… you might just want to take a step back!onally well-preserved group of prehistoric burial cairns and standing stones which were built around 4000 years ago. Best of all for Outlander fans there is a large ‘split stone’ so, if you come here on the Beltane and hear the stones begin to buzz, step back!!

Castle Leod remains the seat of the Clan Mackenzie to this day, and its well-preserved structure, turrets, and dramatic Highland setting evoke the atmosphere of Outlander with striking accuracy. Diana Gabaldon has since visited the castle and acknowledged the remarkable resemblance – much to the delight of both the clan and fans.

While the castle is only open to the public on a handful of days each year, it is still possible to walk up the impressive tree-lined driveway with our small group to enjoy a clear view of the castle’s exterior. It’s a fantastic photo opportunity and a chance to experience a place where history and fiction appear to collide in the most unexpected way.

Though the Outlander connection adds a sense of intrigue, the priory itself is rich with real history. Founded by Valliscaulian monks in the 1200s, the peaceful site houses centuries-old gravestones, many bearing the Fraser name. 

After soaking up the atmosphere of the priory, you’ll enjoy lunch in the charming village of Beauly, known for its welcoming Highland hospitality and close ties to the Fraser clan. It’s the perfect place to pause and reflect on the region’s deep connections to both fact and fiction.

Once one of Scotland’s largest castles, Urquhart has witnessed centuries of conflict, from medieval skirmishes to Jacobite struggles. Today, its crumbling towers and thick stone walls tell stories of a turbulent past, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of Loch Ness. You’ll have time to wander the ruins, climb the Grant Tower for panoramic views, and walk down to the loch’s edge.

It’s here, along the shoreline, that Claire has her unforgettable encounter with the loch’s elusive resident. Whether you’re a believer or a sceptic, standing at the water’s edge and watching the ripples dance across the surface, it’s easy to see why Nessie has captured imaginations for generations. Keep your camera ready – just in case!