Milton of Clava: Ancient Cairns Amidst Scottish History
Explore ancient Bronze Age burial cairns and standing stones in a serene Scottish setting near the historic Culloden Moor.
Milton of Clava is a lesser-known part of the Clava Cairns prehistoric complex near Inverness, Scotland. This tranquil site features Bronze Age burial cairns and stone circles dating back over 4,000 years, set in a peaceful rural landscape near Culloden Moor. Visitors can explore standing stones and ancient passage graves, experiencing a mysterious atmosphere steeped in early Scottish history and archaeology.
A brief summary to Milton of Clava
- Inverness, Culloden Moor, IV2 5EU, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Budget
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Combine your visit with nearby Culloden Battlefield for a fuller historical experience.
- Wear sturdy shoes as the site is outdoors with uneven ground around the stones.
- Bring a camera to capture the mysterious standing stones and tranquil rural landscape.
- Visit in calm weather to fully appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and views.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Parking
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Car
Driving from Inverness city centre, Milton of Clava is approximately a 15-minute drive east via the A96 and B9091 roads. Parking is available near the site. Note that the access road has a 17-tonne vehicle weight restriction.
-
Bus and Taxi
Public transport options include taking a bus from Inverness to Culloden Moor, then a taxi for the final 5-minute, 3.7-mile journey to Milton of Clava. Bus services run with limited frequency; taxi fares range from £11 to £14.
-
Walking
For the adventurous, a walk from Culloden Battlefield to Milton of Clava covers about 3.5 miles and takes approximately 1 hour 7 minutes across mostly flat terrain through rural landscapes.
Milton of Clava location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
-
Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Milton of Clava
Prehistoric Origins and Archaeological Significance
Milton of Clava forms part of the Clava Cairns complex, a remarkable Bronze Age cemetery dating from around 2000 BC. The site consists of ring cairns surrounded by standing stones, which served as burial monuments for prominent members of prehistoric communities. Archaeological excavations have revealed that the cairns were used for burials over several centuries, with evidence of reuse around 1000 BC. These ancient structures offer a rare glimpse into early Scottish ritual and funerary practices, highlighting the spiritual and social importance of the site.Setting and Atmosphere of the Site
Nestled in a quiet field near Culloden Moor, Milton of Clava is smaller and less dramatic than the nearby Balnuaran of Clava but still impresses with its evocative stone circles and kerb cairns. The site is surrounded by open countryside and woodland, creating a peaceful and contemplative environment. Visitors often remark on the palpable sense of mystery and arcane energy that seems to linger among the standing stones, making it a compelling destination for those interested in ancient history and mysticism.Connection to Nearby Historical Landmarks
Just a short distance from the famous Culloden Battlefield, Milton of Clava sits within a landscape rich in Scottish heritage. The battlefield marks the site of the 1746 clash that ended the Jacobite Rising, while the cairns connect visitors to a much earlier chapter of Scotland’s past. Together, these sites provide a layered historical experience, from prehistoric ritual to 18th-century conflict, illustrating the deep cultural significance of the Inverness area.Visitor Experience and Practical Information
Milton of Clava is accessible to the public with a nearby car park and informational signage to guide exploration. The site is ideal for a quiet visit, allowing ample time to wander among the stones and absorb the atmosphere. It pairs well with visits to Culloden Battlefield and the larger Balnuaran of Clava site, making for a rich day of history and archaeology. The terrain is gentle and suitable for most visitors, though there are no formal facilities on site.Preservation and Cultural Importance
Managed as part of the Clava Cairns complex, Milton of Clava is protected for its archaeological value and cultural heritage. The preservation of the standing stones and cairns ensures that this ancient site remains a tangible link to Scotland’s distant past. It serves as an educational resource and a place of reflection, connecting modern visitors with the lives and beliefs of Bronze Age communities.Exploring the Broader Landscape
Beyond the cairns, the surrounding Inverness region offers additional attractions such as the Culloden Battlefield, the Culloden Viaduct, and historic castles like Cawdor. The natural beauty of the area, combined with its rich history, makes Milton of Clava a rewarding stop for travelers seeking both tranquility and insight into Scotland’s layered past.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Milton of Clava
0.0 km
Explore ancient Bronze Age burial cairns and standing stones in a serene Scottish setting near the historic Culloden Moor.
Leanach Farm
1.0 km
Experience authentic Highland farm life with luxury comfort, scenic views, and historic sites just minutes from Inverness.
Culloden Viaduct
1.6 km
Scotland’s longest masonry viaduct, a stunning 29-arch railway bridge spanning the River Nairn valley near historic Culloden Battlefield.
Culloden House Hotel
4.0 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
6.2 km
Comfortable, eco-friendly hotel in Inverness offering modern rooms, free breakfast, and easy access to Highland attractions.
Inshes Gate Brewers Fayre
6.3 km
Experience the warmth of family dining at Inshes Gate Brewers Fayre, featuring delicious British cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere.
Kingsmills Hotel
7.6 km
Historic elegance meets modern luxury with spa, pool, fine dining, and tranquil grounds just minutes from Inverness city center.
The Broad Stone, Inverness
8.0 km
Discover Inverness’s ancient Broad Stone, a mysterious medieval relic with a storied past nestled between city parks.
Silverstrands Guest House
8.0 km
Discover the charm of Inverness at Silverstrands Guest House, where comfort meets Scottish hospitality in a picturesque setting.
The Corriegarth
8.1 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
8.1 km
Explore the serene beauty and architectural splendor of St John's Scottish Episcopal Church, a historic landmark in the heart of Inverness.
Inverness Scotland
8.4 km
Inverness, the vibrant Highland capital, offers historic charm, stunning river views, and easy access to Loch Ness and Scotland’s majestic landscapes.
Cheese & Tomatin
8.4 km
Discover the delightful flavors of Cheese & Tomatin, Inverness' favorite pizza restaurant, where every slice tells a story of quality and taste.
Girvans
8.4 km
Discover Girvans in Inverness, where delightful breakfasts and a warm atmosphere await, perfect for fueling your adventures in the Scottish Highlands.
Rocpool Reserve Hotel
8.5 km
A stylish 5-star boutique hotel in Inverness offering luxurious rooms, acclaimed dining, and a serene city-centre retreat.
Unmissable attractions to see
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
1.3 km
Explore the haunting moor where Scotland’s last pitched battle unfolded, with immersive exhibits and poignant memorials.
Cumberland Stone
1.4 km
Explore the captivating history and stunning views at Cumberland Stone, a must-visit historical landmark in Inverness, Scotland.
Milton of Leys viewpoint
5.6 km
Discover stunning Highland panoramas and tranquil natural beauty at Milton of Leys viewpoint just outside Inverness.
Inverness Shopping Park
5.9 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
6.6 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
7.6 km
Premium motorbike hire in Inverness, your perfect start to the iconic North Coast 500 adventure through Scotland’s stunning Highlands.
Walker park
7.7 km
A spacious, family-friendly city park in Inverness offering vibrant play areas, peaceful green spaces, and community spirit year-round.
St Stephen's Church Inverness
8.2 km
Historic Gothic Presbyterian church in Inverness with rich Highland heritage and striking stained glass artistry.
Visit Inverness Loch Ness
8.2 km
Historic Midmills Buildings transformed into a vibrant creative hub for artists, innovators, and cultural events in the heart of Inverness.
Frankie + Lola's Inverness
8.2 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
8.4 km
Scotland’s smallest local prison, blending historic architecture with modern rehabilitation in the heart of Inverness.
Eastgate Shopping Centre
8.5 km
A vibrant shopping hub in Inverness offering diverse stores, local markets, and convenient amenities in a welcoming city-centre setting.
Market Brae Steps
8.5 km
Historic stone steps linking Inverness’s vibrant Crown district with its rich market heritage and scenic urban views.
Falcon Square
8.5 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
5.9 km
A vibrant American-Italian dining experience in Inverness Retail Park, perfect for families, friends, and casual gatherings with bold flavours and generous portions.
The Fluke
7.1 km
Discover The Fluke: A delightful bar and grill in Inverness offering mouthwatering grilled dishes and a cozy atmosphere for all diners.
D'Lish Restaurant and Bar
7.9 km
Experience authentic Scottish flavors at D'Lish Restaurant and Bar in Inverness - your perfect dining retreat amidst breathtaking Highland scenery.
Heathmount Hotel
8.1 km
Cozy boutique hotel with stylish rooms, acclaimed British dining, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Inverness.
Little Italy
8.4 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the cozy heart of Inverness at Little Italy, a beloved local gem.
Fig & Thistle
8.4 km
Cozy modern Scottish bistro in Inverness serving fresh, locally sourced dishes with warm hospitality and a boutique atmosphere.
Loch & Larder
8.4 km
Casual Inverness eatery serving hearty comfort food with a friendly vibe and convenient daily hours.
Lorimers Family Restaurant
8.5 km
A friendly, family-focused restaurant in Inverness serving classic British dishes with a welcoming atmosphere seven days a week.
Number 27 Bar and Kitchen
8.6 km
Experience the best of Scottish cuisine at Number 27 Bar and Kitchen in Inverness – where every meal tells a story.
Cafe 1
8.6 km
Experience the best of Highland cuisine with locally sourced dishes and warm hospitality in the heart of Inverness.
Ash
8.6 km
Contemporary Scottish bistro with craft cocktails and diverse cuisine in Inverness city centre.
Aye Eat
8.6 km
Experience bold Scottish flavors and warm Highland hospitality in the heart of Inverness at Aye Eat.
La Tortilla
8.6 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and paella in Inverness’s oldest and most beloved tapas bar, blending vibrant flavors with Highland charm.
Kool Runnings
8.7 km
Experience vibrant Jamaican flavors and lively Caribbean vibes in the heart of Inverness at Kool Runnings.
nar
8.7 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean flavors with warm hospitality in the heart of Inverness at Nar, a cozy and highly regarded restaurant.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Range, Inverness
6.0 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
6.4 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
8.2 km
Inverness’s largest independent homewares store offering quality kitchenware, furniture, and household essentials with a family-run touch.
The Drawing Room
8.2 km
Discover unique, locally crafted gifts in a warm, inviting Inverness boutique that celebrates Highland creativity and culture.
White Stuff Inverness
8.4 km
Discover stylish, affordable clothing and accessories for the whole family at White Stuff Inverness, nestled in the vibrant Eastgate Shopping Centre.
Unique Ness
8.4 km
Discover Unique Ness, Inverness’s boutique home furniture shop offering distinctive pieces and creative homeware in Eastgate Shopping Centre.
Souvenir & Gift shop
8.5 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
8.5 km
Discover authentic Harris Tweed heritage and craftsmanship in Inverness with timeless woollen fabrics, clothing, and accessories.
Highland tweeds Inverness
8.5 km
Discover authentic Harris Tweed craftsmanship and timeless Highland style in the warm, welcoming boutique of Highland Tweeds Inverness.
Keepsake Scotland
8.5 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts and heartfelt souvenirs in the welcoming heart of Inverness at Keepsake Scotland.
Isle of Skye Candle Company - Inverness
8.5 km
Authentic hand-poured candles inspired by the Scottish Highlands, crafted with care in Inverness’s family-run boutique.
The Edinburgh Woollen Mill
8.6 km
Explore authentic Scottish woollen fashion and timeless knitwear at The Edinburgh Woollen Mill in Inverness’ historic city centre.
Rouge Boutiques
8.6 km
Discover personalized style and expert fittings at Rouge Boutiques, Inverness’ destination for elegant womenswear and exceptional service.
The Highlander Store
8.6 km
Discover authentic Scottish heritage and unique Highland gifts at The Highlander Store, Inverness’s premier destination for souvenirs and fashion accessories.
The Works
8.6 km
Affordable arts, crafts, books, and stationery in the heart of Inverness’s bustling High Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Snow Goose
6.3 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.
Three Witches
8.4 km
Family-friendly pub in Inverness offering a warm welcome, great carvery, vegan options, and dog-friendly spaces with a lively, casual atmosphere.
The Imperial
8.5 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
8.5 km
Inverness’s vibrant rock and live music bar offering rustic charm, local brews, and an inclusive, lively atmosphere.
Caledonian
8.6 km
A lively and affordable Scottish pub on Inverness High Street, perfect for classic pub fare and spirited local atmosphere.
Platform 8
8.6 km
A lively Inverness pub blending classic charm with modern dining and a celebrated draft beer selection.
The Exchange
8.6 km
A welcoming Inverness pub offering hearty meals, great drinks, and a lively atmosphere in the city center.
Playback
8.6 km
A lively four-story bar and restaurant in Inverness offering gourmet burgers, exclusive craft beers, rooftop vibes, and fun social games.
The Gunsmiths Bar
8.6 km
A lively Inverness bar with historic charm, mezzanine views, affordable drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere near the River Ness.
Lauders
8.7 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Inverness at Lauders Bar, where tradition meets lively nightlife and warm Scottish hospitality.
Revolution Inverness
8.7 km
Trendy city-centre bar and restaurant in Inverness known for lively vibes, cocktails, and comfort food favorites.
MacCallums Bar
8.7 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere at MacCallums Bar, Inverness’s beloved traditional pub.
Market Bar
8.7 km
Experience authentic Scottish nightlife with live music, local ales, and a welcoming vibe at Inverness’s Market Bar on Church Street.
The Piano and Whisky Bar Inverness
8.7 km
Discover Inverness’s premier whisky and piano bar, blending riverside elegance with live music and an extensive malt whisky collection.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Private Eyes Inverness
8.7 km
Experience Inverness’s vibrant nightlife at Private Eyes, where stylish decor meets great music and a welcoming party atmosphere.
Xplosive Discos
15.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Xplosive Discos in Nairn, where unforgettable music and karaoke fun await every visitor.
Seaforth Club
18.3 km
Experience Nairn’s vibrant social heart at Seaforth Club, where community spirit meets lively nightlife in a welcoming setting.
The Ross Shire Club
25.1 km
Experience Dingwall’s vibrant nightlife with a welcoming vibe, BYOB policy, and lively social scene at The Ross Shire Club.
the Balavoulin
34.1 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
34.2 km
Discover The Winking Owl in Aviemore for a delightful experience of craft ales, local flavors, and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
The Vault
34.5 km
Experience Aviemore’s vibrant nightlife at The Vault, a lively nightclub blending modern beats with Highland charm every weekend.
Mambos
34.6 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
35.4 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
36.7 km
Experience the warmth and charm of Woodshed Bar in Aviemore, where delightful drinks and a cozy atmosphere await you.
SUIE BAR
38.9 km
Discover Suie Bar: A Heartwarming Scottish Retreat in Kincraig, Perfect for Relaxation and Local Flavors.
The Pine Marten Bar
40.6 km
Experience the warmth of Scottish hospitality at The Pine Marten Bar, where delicious food and breathtaking views combine for an unforgettable visit.
Shmelgin
49.8 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
49.8 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
49.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Zed Bar in Elgin, where great drinks and lively atmosphere await every visitor.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly