Cumberland Stone
A glacial giant where legend places a duke watching history unfold across a blood-soaked moor.
A massive glacial boulder standing over 5 feet high near Culloden Moor, Cumberland Stone is steeped in Highland history and legend. According to local tradition, the Duke of Cumberland watched the brutal 1746 Battle of Culloden from atop this enormous conglomerate stone, making it a poignant landmark of Scotland's Jacobite past. Visitors can climb the stone via carved steps and experience a tangible connection to one of the most significant—and tragic—moments in Scottish history.
A brief summary to Cumberland Stone
- B9006, Inverness, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Wear sturdy footwear with good grip when climbing the stone, as the surface can be slippery, especially after rain or in winter conditions.
- Visit Culloden Moor visitor centre nearby to gain deeper context about the 1746 battle and its historical significance before or after viewing the stone.
- The stone is accessible year-round and free to visit, making it an excellent addition to a self-guided Highland history tour.
- Bring a camera or smartphone to capture the panoramic views from the stone's summit and the surrounding moorland landscape.
- Allow time to read the nearby interpretive plaques and reflect on the historical weight of the location before moving on.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
-
Car
From Inverness city centre, drive south on the A9 toward Perth for approximately 8 kilometres, then take the B9006 exit toward Culloden. Cumberland Stone is located roadside on the B9006 near the Culloden Moor visitor centre. Journey time is approximately 15–20 minutes. Parking is available at nearby Culloden Moor visitor centre car park, which is free. The stone itself is immediately accessible from the road.
-
Bus
Local bus services operate from Inverness city centre to the Culloden area. Journey time is typically 25–35 minutes depending on route and stops. Services run regularly throughout the day, though frequency may be reduced on Sundays. Check local transport schedules for current timetables. The stone is a short walk from the main bus stop near Culloden Moor visitor centre.
-
Taxi or Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services are available from Inverness. Journey time from the city centre is approximately 15–20 minutes, with typical fares ranging from £12–£18 depending on exact pickup location. This option provides direct access to the stone's roadside location.
-
Walking or Cycling
From Inverness, a walking or cycling route of approximately 8–10 kilometres is possible via local roads and paths, though this is best suited to experienced walkers or cyclists familiar with Highland terrain. Journey time on foot is 2–2.5 hours; by bicycle, 30–45 minutes. The B9006 has some traffic; consider cycling during quieter times of day.
Cumberland Stone location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Cold Weather
Discover more about Cumberland Stone
A Stone Shaped by Ancient Ice
Cumberland Stone is an enormous glacial erratic, a remnant of the last Ice Age that covered Scotland over 16,000 years ago. Measuring 53.5 feet in circumference and standing just over 5 feet high, this conglomerate boulder was carried south by vast ice sheets and deposited on the Highland landscape when the glaciers melted. The stone's sheer size and unusual composition make it a striking natural monument, visible from the road near Culloden Moor in the Inverness area.The Duke's Vantage Point
Cumberland Stone gained its name and historical significance on April 16, 1746, the day of the Battle of Culloden. According to local tradition, William Augustus, Duke of Cumberland and son of King George II, stood upon this stone to observe the battle unfolding across the moor below. Some accounts suggest he ate his breakfast or lunch atop the boulder while watching the government forces clash with the Jacobite Highlanders. Whether he truly commanded from this exact spot remains debated by historians, but the legend has endured for nearly three centuries, cementing the stone's place in Scotland's collective memory.Witness to Tragedy and Transformation
The Battle of Culloden was a watershed moment in Scottish history. In just one hour of brutal combat, over 1,200 Jacobite supporters were slain by the Duke of Cumberland's government troops, effectively ending the final Jacobite Rising and the Highland clan system as it had existed for centuries. The moor itself became a graveyard, with clan graves marked by stones scattered across the battlefield. Cumberland Stone stands as a silent witness to this pivotal moment—a physical anchor to the violence, ambition, and cultural upheaval that reshaped the Highlands forever.Accessible Monument and Modern Visitor Experience
Today, Cumberland Stone welcomes visitors who wish to connect with this dramatic history. Carved steps have been hammered into the rock's side, allowing anyone to climb to the top and stand where legend places the Duke himself. The ascent is straightforward, though the stone's weathered surface and exposed position mean care should be taken, particularly in wet or icy conditions. From the summit, visitors gain a perspective of the surrounding landscape and can contemplate the scale of the battlefield below.Integration with Culloden's Broader Heritage
Cumberland Stone does not stand in isolation. It sits within easy reach of Culloden Moor, where a modern visitor centre provides context, artefacts, and interpretation of the battle and its consequences. The nearby memorial cairn and clan grave markers transform the entire area into an open-air museum of Highland history. Together, these sites tell the story of the Jacobite cause, the clans' final stand, and the profound changes that followed for Scottish society and culture.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Leanach Farm
0.6 km
Experience authentic Highland farm life with luxury comfort, scenic views, and historic sites just minutes from Inverness.
Milton of Clava
1.4 km
Explore ancient Bronze Age burial cairns and standing stones in a serene Scottish setting near the historic Culloden Moor.
Culloden Viaduct
1.5 km
Scotland’s longest masonry viaduct, a stunning 29-arch railway bridge spanning the River Nairn valley near historic Culloden Battlefield.
Culloden House Hotel
3.1 km
Elegant Georgian mansion with historic charm, fine dining, and tranquil gardens near Inverness in the Scottish Highlands.
Holiday Inn Express Inverness, an IHG Hotel
5.8 km
Comfortable, eco-friendly hotel in Inverness offering modern rooms, free breakfast, and easy access to Highland attractions.
Inshes Gate Brewers Fayre
6.0 km
Experience the warmth of family dining at Inshes Gate Brewers Fayre, featuring delicious British cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere.
Kingsmills Hotel
7.3 km
Historic elegance meets modern luxury with spa, pool, fine dining, and tranquil grounds just minutes from Inverness city center.
The Broad Stone, Inverness
7.7 km
Discover Inverness’s ancient Broad Stone, a mysterious medieval relic with a storied past nestled between city parks.
Silverstrands Guest House
7.7 km
Discover the charm of Inverness at Silverstrands Guest House, where comfort meets Scottish hospitality in a picturesque setting.
The Corriegarth
7.8 km
Cozy and friendly Highland hotel with a charming pub, quality dining, and peaceful rooms near Inverness city center.
St John's Scottish Episcopal Church, Inverness
7.8 km
Explore the serene beauty and architectural splendor of St John's Scottish Episcopal Church, a historic landmark in the heart of Inverness.
Cheese & Tomatin
8.0 km
Discover the delightful flavors of Cheese & Tomatin, Inverness' favorite pizza restaurant, where every slice tells a story of quality and taste.
Girvans
8.0 km
Discover Girvans in Inverness, where delightful breakfasts and a warm atmosphere await, perfect for fueling your adventures in the Scottish Highlands.
Inverness Scotland
8.1 km
Inverness, the vibrant Highland capital, offers historic charm, stunning river views, and easy access to Loch Ness and Scotland’s majestic landscapes.
Water filling station
8.1 km
Discover the Water Filling Station in Inverness, a must-visit eco-friendly tourist attraction that promotes sustainability and hydration for all travelers.
Unmissable attractions to see
Culloden Battlefield and Visitor Centre
0.5 km
Explore the haunting moor where the 1746 Battle of Culloden ended the Jacobite Rising, with immersive exhibits and historic memorials.
Culloden Battlefield
0.6 km
Explore the haunting moor where Scotland’s last pitched battle unfolded, with immersive exhibits and poignant memorials.
Clava Cairns
1.1 km
Explore Clava Cairns, a mystical 4,000-year-old Bronze Age burial site near Inverness, famed for its ancient stone circles and celestial alignments.
Inverness Shopping Park
5.4 km
A spacious and accessible retail park offering diverse shops, dining, and entertainment just east of Inverness city centre.
Milton of Leys viewpoint
5.9 km
Discover stunning Highland panoramas and tranquil natural beauty at Milton of Leys viewpoint just outside Inverness.
Bannatyne’s Health Club And Spa
6.5 km
A modern health and wellness sanctuary in Inverness offering gym, spa treatments, heated pool, and a stylish café bar for complete relaxation.
North Coast 500 Moto Experience
7.1 km
Premium motorbike hire in Inverness, your perfect start to the iconic North Coast 500 adventure through Scotland’s stunning Highlands.
Walker park
7.4 km
A spacious, family-friendly city park in Inverness offering vibrant play areas, peaceful green spaces, and community spirit year-round.
Visit Inverness Loch Ness
7.9 km
Historic Midmills Buildings transformed into a vibrant creative hub for artists, innovators, and cultural events in the heart of Inverness.
St Stephen's Church Inverness
7.9 km
Historic Gothic Presbyterian church in Inverness with rich Highland heritage and striking stained glass artistry.
Eastgate Shopping Centre
8.1 km
A vibrant shopping hub in Inverness offering diverse stores, local markets, and convenient amenities in a welcoming city-centre setting.
HMP Inverness
8.1 km
Scotland’s smallest local prison, blending historic architecture with modern rehabilitation in the heart of Inverness.
Falcon Square
8.1 km
Historic Inverness square blending industrial heritage, striking sculpture, and vibrant shopping in the city’s cultural heart.
Market Brae Steps
8.1 km
Historic stone steps linking Inverness’s vibrant Crown district with its rich market heritage and scenic urban views.
National memorial of Scotland
8.1 km
Explore the National Memorial of Scotland in Inverness, a profound tribute to the nation's rich history and cultural heritage.
Essential places to dine
Frankie & Benny's
5.4 km
A vibrant American-Italian dining experience in Inverness Retail Park, perfect for families, friends, and casual gatherings with bold flavours and generous portions.
D'Lish Restaurant and Bar
6.7 km
Experience authentic Scottish flavors at D'Lish Restaurant and Bar in Inverness - your perfect dining retreat amidst breathtaking Highland scenery.
The Fluke
6.8 km
Discover The Fluke: A delightful bar and grill in Inverness offering mouthwatering grilled dishes and a cozy atmosphere for all diners.
Heathmount Hotel
7.8 km
Cozy boutique hotel with stylish rooms, acclaimed British dining, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Inverness.
Little Italy
8.0 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the cozy heart of Inverness at Little Italy, a beloved local gem.
Fig & Thistle
8.0 km
Cozy modern Scottish bistro in Inverness serving fresh, locally sourced dishes with warm hospitality and a boutique atmosphere.
Loch & Larder
8.0 km
Casual Inverness eatery serving hearty comfort food with a friendly vibe and convenient daily hours.
Lorimers Family Restaurant
8.1 km
A friendly, family-focused restaurant in Inverness serving classic British dishes with a welcoming atmosphere seven days a week.
Ash
8.2 km
Contemporary Scottish bistro with craft cocktails and diverse cuisine in Inverness city centre.
Number 27 Bar and Kitchen
8.2 km
Experience the best of Scottish cuisine at Number 27 Bar and Kitchen in Inverness – where every meal tells a story.
Aye Eat
8.2 km
Experience bold Scottish flavors and warm Highland hospitality in the heart of Inverness at Aye Eat.
Cafe 1
8.2 km
Experience the best of Highland cuisine with locally sourced dishes and warm hospitality in the heart of Inverness.
La Tortilla
8.3 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and paella in Inverness’s oldest and most beloved tapas bar, blending vibrant flavors with Highland charm.
Salt’N’Fire
8.3 km
The UK’s first fully vegan takeaway, serving bold, globally inspired street food in the heart of Inverness’s Victorian Market.
Kool Runnings
8.3 km
Experience vibrant Jamaican flavors and lively Caribbean vibes in the heart of Inverness at Kool Runnings.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Range, Inverness
5.5 km
A versatile homewares and lifestyle store in Inverness Retail Park offering furniture, garden, pet, lighting, toys, and art supplies under one roof.
F&F Clothing
6.2 km
Affordable fashion for the whole family at Inverness’s Inshes Retail Park, open daily with a broad selection from F&F Clothing inside Tesco Extra.
Farm & Household Stores
7.8 km
Inverness’s largest independent homewares store offering quality kitchenware, furniture, and household essentials with a family-run touch.
The Drawing Room
7.9 km
Discover unique, locally crafted gifts in a warm, inviting Inverness boutique that celebrates Highland creativity and culture.
White Stuff Inverness
8.0 km
Discover stylish, affordable clothing and accessories for the whole family at White Stuff Inverness, nestled in the vibrant Eastgate Shopping Centre.
Unique Ness
8.0 km
Discover Unique Ness, Inverness’s boutique home furniture shop offering distinctive pieces and creative homeware in Eastgate Shopping Centre.
Souvenir & Gift shop
8.1 km
A convenient Highland gift shop in Inverness’s main shopping district, offering tartan souvenirs, Nessie memorabilia, and traditional Highland wear.
Harris Tweed Isle Of Harris
8.1 km
Discover authentic Harris Tweed heritage and craftsmanship in Inverness with timeless woollen fabrics, clothing, and accessories.
Highland tweeds Inverness
8.1 km
Discover authentic Harris Tweed craftsmanship and timeless Highland style in the warm, welcoming boutique of Highland Tweeds Inverness.
Keepsake Scotland
8.2 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts and heartfelt souvenirs in the welcoming heart of Inverness at Keepsake Scotland.
Isle of Skye Candle Company - Inverness
8.2 km
Authentic hand-poured candles inspired by the Scottish Highlands, crafted with care in Inverness’s family-run boutique.
The Edinburgh Woollen Mill
8.2 km
Explore authentic Scottish woollen fashion and timeless knitwear at The Edinburgh Woollen Mill in Inverness’ historic city centre.
The Highlander Store
8.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish heritage and unique Highland gifts at The Highlander Store, Inverness’s premier destination for souvenirs and fashion accessories.
The Works
8.2 km
Affordable arts, crafts, books, and stationery in the heart of Inverness’s bustling High Street.
Rohan Inverness - Outdoor Clothing & Walking Gear
8.2 km
Durable, stylish outdoor clothing and walking gear crafted for Scotland’s adventures, right in the heart of Inverness.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Snow Goose
5.8 km
Cozy up by the fire at The Snow Goose, Inverness’s charming pub serving hearty Highland classics in a warm, welcoming setting.
Dows Bar
7.4 km
A welcoming gastropub in Inverness blending local flavors, craft beers, and lively sports in a family-friendly setting.
The Imperial
8.2 km
A lively traditional Scottish pub and sports bar in Inverness, offering great drinks, hearty pub grub, and nonstop sports action on big screens.
The Tooth & Claw
8.2 km
Inverness’s vibrant rock and live music bar offering rustic charm, local brews, and an inclusive, lively atmosphere.
Platform 8
8.2 km
A lively Inverness pub blending classic charm with modern dining and a celebrated draft beer selection.
The Exchange
8.2 km
A welcoming Inverness pub offering hearty meals, great drinks, and a lively atmosphere in the city center.
Playback
8.3 km
A lively four-story bar and restaurant in Inverness offering gourmet burgers, exclusive craft beers, rooftop vibes, and fun social games.
Caledonian
8.3 km
A lively and affordable Scottish pub on Inverness High Street, perfect for classic pub fare and spirited local atmosphere.
The Gunsmiths Bar
8.3 km
A lively Inverness bar with historic charm, mezzanine views, affordable drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere near the River Ness.
MacCallums Bar
8.3 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere at MacCallums Bar, Inverness’s beloved traditional pub.
Lauders
8.3 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Inverness at Lauders Bar, where tradition meets lively nightlife and warm Scottish hospitality.
Revolution Inverness
8.3 km
Trendy city-centre bar and restaurant in Inverness known for lively vibes, cocktails, and comfort food favorites.
Market Bar
8.3 km
Experience authentic Scottish nightlife with live music, local ales, and a welcoming vibe at Inverness’s Market Bar on Church Street.
The Malt Room
8.3 km
Discover Inverness’s cozy whisky sanctuary with expert hosts, rare malts, and a warm, intimate atmosphere perfect for savoring every dram.
Highlander
8.4 km
Experience daily live Scottish music, authentic cuisine, and a vibrant atmosphere at Highlander Bar, Inverness’s cultural heart.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Private Eyes Inverness
8.3 km
Experience Inverness’s vibrant nightlife at Private Eyes, where stylish decor meets great music and a welcoming party atmosphere.
Xplosive Discos
14.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Xplosive Discos in Nairn, where unforgettable music and karaoke fun await every visitor.
Seaforth Club
17.6 km
Experience Nairn’s vibrant social heart at Seaforth Club, where community spirit meets lively nightlife in a welcoming setting.
The Ross Shire Club
24.2 km
Experience Dingwall’s vibrant nightlife with a welcoming vibe, BYOB policy, and lively social scene at The Ross Shire Club.
the Balavoulin
35.5 km
A lively, dog-friendly pub with hearty meals and cozy rooms, perfectly placed for exploring Aviemore and the Cairngorms.
The Winking Owl, Craft Ale Pub & Bar
35.5 km
Discover The Winking Owl in Aviemore for a delightful experience of craft ales, local flavors, and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
The Vault
35.8 km
Experience Aviemore’s vibrant nightlife at The Vault, a lively nightclub blending modern beats with Highland charm every weekend.
Mambos
35.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Mambos in Aviemore, where local charm meets a lively bar atmosphere for an unforgettable evening.
The Aviemore Inn pub and grill
36.7 km
Experience the warmth of Scottish hospitality at The Aviemore Inn, the perfect pub and grill in the heart of Aviemore for travelers and locals alike.
Woodshed Bar
38.0 km
Experience the warmth and charm of Woodshed Bar in Aviemore, where delightful drinks and a cozy atmosphere await you.
SUIE BAR
40.3 km
Discover Suie Bar: A Heartwarming Scottish Retreat in Kincraig, Perfect for Relaxation and Local Flavors.
The Pine Marten Bar
41.9 km
Experience the warmth of Scottish hospitality at The Pine Marten Bar, where delicious food and breathtaking views combine for an unforgettable visit.
Shmelgin
49.5 km
Experience the authentic flavors of Nepal at Shmelgin, Elgin's premier Nepalese restaurant, known for its warm atmosphere and delicious dishes.
Moray Jazz Club
49.5 km
Discover the vibrant live music scene at Moray Jazz Club in Elgin, where talented musicians create unforgettable performances in an intimate setting.
Zed Bar
49.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Zed Bar in Elgin, where great drinks and lively atmosphere await every visitor.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Unique
- Adventurous
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Panoramas
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Instagrammable
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Myth & Legends
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
