Clava Cairns
Ancient Bronze Age burial cairns aligned with winter solstice, set in mystical Highland woodland.
Clava Cairns is a Bronze Age burial complex dating back approximately 4,000 years, located near Inverness in the Scottish Highlands. The site comprises three exceptionally well-preserved cairns—two passage graves and one ring cairn—each surrounded by standing stones arranged with astronomical precision. Set in a tranquil woodland setting above the River Nairn, this free, open-access site offers visitors an intimate encounter with prehistoric Scotland. The cairns' alignment with the winter solstice sunset reveals the advanced astronomical knowledge of its Bronze Age builders. The site has gained modern cultural significance as the inspiration for the fictional Craigh na Dun in the Outlander television series, attracting visitors worldwide seeking to connect with ancient history and the show's romantic narrative.
A brief summary to Clava Cairns
- Inverness, IV2 5EU, GB
- +441667460232
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during the winter solstice (around December 21) for a profound experience of the site's astronomical alignment with the midwinter sunset—the stones were deliberately positioned to mark this celestial event.
- Wear sturdy, waterproof footwear; the terrain is uneven with exposed stones and can become muddy in wet weather. There are no facilities on-site, so bring water and any supplies you may need.
- Arrive early in the morning or late afternoon to experience the site with fewer visitors and optimal lighting for photography, particularly if visiting during peak summer season.
- Combine your visit with nearby Culloden Battlefield (one mile away) to create a comprehensive Highland history experience spanning from Bronze Age burial practices to 18th-century conflict.
- Respect the sacred nature of the site by moving quietly and thoughtfully; this is an ancient burial ground where people honored their dead, and maintaining a contemplative atmosphere preserves the experience for all visitors.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Car from Inverness
Drive east from Inverness city center on the A96, then follow brown tourist signs toward Culloden Battlefield. Turn onto the B851 and continue approximately 6 miles; Clava Cairns is signposted 1 mile south of Culloden. The journey takes 15–20 minutes depending on traffic. Free parking is available on-site with approximately 20 spaces; the car park can become full during peak summer weekends and midday hours. The road is well-maintained and suitable for all vehicles, though the car park surface can be muddy in wet weather.
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Walking from Culloden Battlefield
From Culloden Battlefield visitor center, Clava Cairns is accessible on foot via a scenic walking route of approximately 1 mile, taking 20–25 minutes. The path follows country roads and field edges with some uneven terrain. This option is ideal if you are visiting both sites in sequence and prefer to experience the landscape at a slower pace. Wear sturdy footwear and allow extra time if the ground is wet.
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Guided Tour from Inverness
Several tour operators in Inverness offer guided excursions to Clava Cairns, often combined with Culloden Battlefield and other Highland sites. Tours typically depart from central Inverness, last 4–8 hours depending on the itinerary, and include transportation and expert commentary. Prices generally range from £40–£120 per person. This option is recommended if you do not have access to a rental vehicle or prefer structured interpretation of the site's history and significance.
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Taxi or Ride-Share from Inverness
A taxi from central Inverness to Clava Cairns costs approximately £15–£25 one-way and takes 15–20 minutes depending on traffic and exact pickup location. Ride-share services operate in Inverness but may have limited availability in rural areas. This option provides flexibility without the commitment of a full guided tour, though you will need to arrange return transport or allow time for the driver to wait.
Clava Cairns location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Clava Cairns
Four Millennia of Stone and Ceremony
Clava Cairns stands as one of Scotland's most evocative prehistoric monuments, a Bronze Age cemetery complex constructed around 2000 BCE. The site comprises three primary cairns—two passage graves with stone-lined entrances leading to central chambers, and one fully enclosed ring cairn—each surrounded by carefully arranged standing stones. These structures were built to house the dead and served as a sacred focal point in the landscape for generations. The meticulous construction reveals the remarkable craftsmanship and engineering prowess of Neolithic peoples who possessed no written language, no metal tools, and yet demonstrated profound knowledge of stone-working, spatial planning, and celestial observation. The three cairns are positioned in a northeast-to-southwest alignment, with the passages of the two outer cairns oriented toward the southwest. This deliberate positioning aligns with the midwinter sunset, suggesting that the site held deep ceremonial and spiritual significance tied to seasonal cycles and astronomical events. The standing stones surrounding each cairn are graded by height, with the tallest facing the setting sun, further emphasizing the builders' sophisticated understanding of celestial mechanics and their integration into burial practices.A Landscape Steeped in Ancient Ritual
Clava Cairns exists within a broader prehistoric landscape dotted with over 50 similar cairns and standing stones, indicating that this area was a significant center of Bronze Age activity and belief. The site itself comprises two main sections open to the public: Balnuaran of Clava, the primary complex with the three prominent cairns, and Milton of Clava, a smaller cemetery featuring additional burial monuments, the remains of a medieval chapel, and further standing stones. Walking through these sites, visitors encounter tangible evidence of how ancient communities honored their dead and maintained spiritual connections to the land and cosmos. The atmosphere at Clava Cairns is distinctly contemplative. The woodland setting, the arrangement of weathered stones, and the profound silence create an environment conducive to reflection on mortality, continuity, and humanity's enduring relationship with the earth. Many visitors report a palpable sense of connection—not eerie, but deeply grounded—as though the accumulated weight of millennia whispers through the landscape.Modern Discovery and Cultural Resonance
For centuries, Clava Cairns remained known primarily to local communities and serious archaeology enthusiasts. In recent decades, the site has experienced a surge in international recognition, largely due to its association with the Outlander television series. Although the fictional Craigh na Dun does not appear in Diana Gabaldon's original novels and the author had not visited Scotland during the books' composition, the Clava Cairns' mystical atmosphere and ancient standing stones captured the imagination of the show's creators and audiences worldwide. This cultural phenomenon has brought thousands of visitors from across the globe, many seeking to stand where the character Claire Randall experiences her fictional time-travel moment. Yet the site itself remains refreshingly uncommercialized—no gift shops, no cafés, no visitor center—preserving its authentic, undisturbed character.The Visitor Experience and Practical Realities
Clava Cairns welcomes visitors year-round at no cost, with the site remaining open 24 hours daily. A small car park accommodates approximately 20 vehicles, though it can reach capacity during peak times, particularly in summer months and weekends. The terrain is uneven and natural, with soft ground, exposed stones, and potential mud during wet weather—sturdy footwear is essential. There are no facilities on-site: no restrooms, no drinking water, no information center. However, information boards positioned throughout the site provide historical context and archaeological details. Most visitors spend between one and two hours exploring the cairns, reading the interpretive materials, and absorbing the atmosphere. The site's proximity to Culloden Battlefield, located just one mile away, makes it an ideal pairing for a day exploring Highland history. The combination of Bronze Age burial monuments and the 18th-century battlefield creates a powerful narrative arc spanning four millennia of Scottish experience.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
0.8 km
Explore ancient Bronze Age burial cairns and standing stones in a serene Scottish setting near the historic Culloden Moor.
Culloden Viaduct
0.8 km
Scotland’s longest masonry viaduct, a stunning 29-arch railway bridge spanning the River Nairn valley near historic Culloden Battlefield.
Culloden House Hotel
4.2 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
6.6 km
Comfortable, eco-friendly hotel in Inverness offering modern rooms, free breakfast, and easy access to Highland attractions.
Inshes Gate Brewers Fayre
6.8 km
Experience the warmth of family dining at Inshes Gate Brewers Fayre, featuring delicious British cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere.
Kingsmills Hotel
8.1 km
Historic elegance meets modern luxury with spa, pool, fine dining, and tranquil grounds just minutes from Inverness city center.
The Broad Stone, Inverness
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Silverstrands Guest House
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The Corriegarth
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St John's Scottish Episcopal Church, Inverness
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Cheese & Tomatin
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Girvans
8.9 km
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Inverness Scotland
8.9 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
9.0 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
Cumberland Stone
1.1 km
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Culloden Battlefield and Visitor Centre
1.2 km
Explore the haunting moor where the 1746 Battle of Culloden ended the Jacobite Rising, with immersive exhibits and historic memorials.
Culloden Battlefield
1.4 km
Explore the haunting moor where Scotland’s last pitched battle unfolded, with immersive exhibits and poignant memorials.
Milton of Leys viewpoint
6.3 km
Discover stunning Highland panoramas and tranquil natural beauty at Milton of Leys viewpoint just outside Inverness.
Inverness Shopping Park
6.3 km
A spacious and accessible retail park offering diverse shops, dining, and entertainment just east of Inverness city centre.
Bannatyne’s Health Club And Spa
7.2 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
8.0 km
Premium motorbike hire in Inverness, your perfect start to the iconic North Coast 500 adventure through Scotland’s stunning Highlands.
Walker park
8.2 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
8.7 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
8.7 km
Historic Gothic Presbyterian church in Inverness with rich Highland heritage and striking stained glass artistry.
Frankie + Lola's Inverness
8.9 km
A vibrant soft play centre and bistro in Inverness offering safe family fun, homemade food, and a welcoming atmosphere for all ages.
HMP Inverness
8.9 km
Scotland’s smallest local prison, blending historic architecture with modern rehabilitation in the heart of Inverness.
Eastgate Shopping Centre
8.9 km
A vibrant shopping hub in Inverness offering diverse stores, local markets, and convenient amenities in a welcoming city-centre setting.
Market Brae Steps
8.9 km
Historic stone steps linking Inverness’s vibrant Crown district with its rich market heritage and scenic urban views.
Falcon Square
9.0 km
Historic Inverness square blending industrial heritage, striking sculpture, and vibrant shopping in the city’s cultural heart.
Essential places to dine
Frankie & Benny's
6.3 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
7.3 km
Experience authentic Scottish flavors at D'Lish Restaurant and Bar in Inverness - your perfect dining retreat amidst breathtaking Highland scenery.
The Fluke
7.6 km
Discover The Fluke: A delightful bar and grill in Inverness offering mouthwatering grilled dishes and a cozy atmosphere for all diners.
Heathmount Hotel
8.6 km
Cozy boutique hotel with stylish rooms, acclaimed British dining, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Inverness.
Little Italy
8.8 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the cozy heart of Inverness at Little Italy, a beloved local gem.
Fig & Thistle
8.8 km
Cozy modern Scottish bistro in Inverness serving fresh, locally sourced dishes with warm hospitality and a boutique atmosphere.
Loch & Larder
8.9 km
Casual Inverness eatery serving hearty comfort food with a friendly vibe and convenient daily hours.
Lorimers Family Restaurant
9.0 km
A friendly, family-focused restaurant in Inverness serving classic British dishes with a welcoming atmosphere seven days a week.
Ash
9.0 km
Contemporary Scottish bistro with craft cocktails and diverse cuisine in Inverness city centre.
Number 27 Bar and Kitchen
9.0 km
Experience the best of Scottish cuisine at Number 27 Bar and Kitchen in Inverness – where every meal tells a story.
Aye Eat
9.0 km
Experience bold Scottish flavors and warm Highland hospitality in the heart of Inverness at Aye Eat.
Cafe 1
9.0 km
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La Tortilla
9.1 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and paella in Inverness’s oldest and most beloved tapas bar, blending vibrant flavors with Highland charm.
Kool Runnings
9.1 km
Experience vibrant Jamaican flavors and lively Caribbean vibes in the heart of Inverness at Kool Runnings.
Salt’N’Fire
9.1 km
The UK’s first fully vegan takeaway, serving bold, globally inspired street food in the heart of Inverness’s Victorian Market.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Range, Inverness
6.4 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
7.0 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
8.6 km
Inverness’s largest independent homewares store offering quality kitchenware, furniture, and household essentials with a family-run touch.
The Drawing Room
8.7 km
Discover unique, locally crafted gifts in a warm, inviting Inverness boutique that celebrates Highland creativity and culture.
White Stuff Inverness
8.8 km
Discover stylish, affordable clothing and accessories for the whole family at White Stuff Inverness, nestled in the vibrant Eastgate Shopping Centre.
Unique Ness
8.9 km
Discover Unique Ness, Inverness’s boutique home furniture shop offering distinctive pieces and creative homeware in Eastgate Shopping Centre.
Souvenir & Gift shop
9.0 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
9.0 km
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Highland tweeds Inverness
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Keepsake Scotland
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Isle of Skye Candle Company - Inverness
9.0 km
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The Edinburgh Woollen Mill
9.0 km
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The Highlander Store
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The Works
9.0 km
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Rouge Boutiques
9.0 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Snow Goose
6.7 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
8.0 km
A welcoming gastropub in Inverness blending local flavors, craft beers, and lively sports in a family-friendly setting.
The Imperial
9.0 km
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The Tooth & Claw
9.0 km
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Three Witches
9.1 km
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Platform 8
9.1 km
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The Exchange
9.1 km
A welcoming Inverness pub offering hearty meals, great drinks, and a lively atmosphere in the city center.
Caledonian
9.1 km
A lively and affordable Scottish pub on Inverness High Street, perfect for classic pub fare and spirited local atmosphere.
Playback
9.1 km
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The Gunsmiths Bar
9.1 km
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Lauders
9.1 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Inverness at Lauders Bar, where tradition meets lively nightlife and warm Scottish hospitality.
MacCallums Bar
9.1 km
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Revolution Inverness
9.1 km
Trendy city-centre bar and restaurant in Inverness known for lively vibes, cocktails, and comfort food favorites.
Market Bar
9.2 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
9.2 km
Discover Inverness’s cozy whisky sanctuary with expert hosts, rare malts, and a warm, intimate atmosphere perfect for savoring every dram.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Zen
- Scenic
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- Unique
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Mindfulness
- Meditation Spot
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- Myth & Legends
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
