Culloden Battlefield and Visitor Centre
Step onto the historic moor where the last pitched battle on British soil unfolded, and immerse yourself in Scotland’s turbulent past.
Culloden Battlefield near Inverness is the site of the last pitched battle fought on British soil in 1746. The moor is marked by clan gravestones and a central memorial cairn, commemorating the approximately 1,600 soldiers who died. The modern Visitor Centre features immersive 360-degree battle theatre, interactive exhibits, and artefacts from both Jacobite and Government sides, offering a profound insight into this pivotal moment in Scottish history.
A brief summary to Culloden Battlefield
- Inverness, Culloden Moor, IV2 5EU, GB
- +441463796090
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Start your visit at the Visitor Centre to fully understand the battle’s background before exploring the battlefield.
- Dress warmly and be prepared for changing weather, as the open moor can be windy and chilly, even in summer.
- Consider renting the GPS-enabled Battlefield Guide for detailed archaeological information and personal stories during your walk.
- Join a guided tour of the battlefield to gain in-depth insights and vivid storytelling about the battle’s key moments.
- Respect the site by staying on marked paths, as the battlefield contains the graves of those who fell in 1746.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Inverness city centre to Culloden Battlefield takes approximately 15–20 minutes via the A96. Parking is available on site for a £5 fee, but spaces can be limited during peak times. The roads are well maintained and accessible year-round.
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Bus
Local bus services 27 and 112 connect Inverness to Culloden Moor, with a journey time of around 20–25 minutes. Buses run regularly throughout the day but check schedules in advance, especially on weekends and holidays. The stop is a short walk from the Visitor Centre.
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Walking
For active visitors staying in nearby Culloden village, walking to the battlefield is possible in about 30–40 minutes along mostly flat terrain. Paths are gravel and may be uneven in places, so suitable footwear is recommended. Not ideal for wheelchair users.
Culloden Battlefield location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Culloden Battlefield
The Historic Clash That Shaped Scotland
Culloden Battlefield is the solemn site where the Jacobite Rising of 1745 culminated in a brutal confrontation on April 16, 1746. In less than an hour, around 1,600 men fell, most of them Jacobite Highlanders fighting to restore the Stuart monarchy. This battle marked the last pitched battle on British soil and dramatically altered the cultural and political landscape of the Scottish Highlands. The battlefield itself has been carefully restored to reflect its 18th-century appearance, with clan gravestones and memorial cairns marking the resting places of the fallen.Immersive Visitor Centre Experience
The award-winning Visitor Centre, designed by Gareth Hoskins Architects and opened in 2007, offers a deeply moving and educational experience. Visitors walk through dual narratives of the Jacobite and Government perspectives, exploring the complex motivations behind the conflict. The centre features interactive displays, authentic artefacts including weapons and personal items, and a 360-degree battle immersion theatre that places you in the heart of the chaos and terror of the fight. The immersive film uses surround visuals and sound to convey the confusion and intensity of the battle without narration, creating a visceral experience.Exploring the Battlefield and Memorials
Outside, the expansive moor invites visitors to walk the historic battlefield along upgraded footpaths suitable for most visitors, including families and those with access needs. Clan stones and flags mark the positions of the opposing forces, while the memorial cairn stands as a poignant tribute to all who fought and died. The nearby Leanach Cottage offers a glimpse into rural life during the period. The National Trust for Scotland’s GPS-enabled Battlefield Guide enriches the visit with archaeological insights and personal accounts, available in multiple languages.Architectural and Interpretive Design
The Visitor Centre’s architecture and interpretive design have won multiple awards for their innovative use of technology and storytelling. The centre’s layout allows visitors to independently follow each side’s story or experience both in tandem. The exhibition includes a large animated battle table that visually narrates the battle’s progression and tactical errors, providing a clear understanding of how events unfolded. The centre also features a rooftop viewing platform offering panoramic views of the battlefield.Preserving Memory and Heritage
Culloden Battlefield serves as both a monument and a place of reflection, preserving the memory of a tragic chapter in Scottish history. It honors the lives lost and the cultural heritage affected by the battle’s aftermath. The site is managed by the National Trust for Scotland, which ensures ongoing archaeological research and conservation efforts. Visitors are encouraged to respect the battlefield’s solemnity by staying on paths and appreciating the historical significance of the land.Visitor Amenities and Accessibility
The Visitor Centre includes a café, restrooms, and a gift shop, enhancing the visitor experience. The site is accessible year-round, with the battlefield open daily and the Visitor Centre operating seasonally. Guided tours of the battlefield are highly recommended to gain deeper historical context. Parking is available for a fee, and the centre is reachable by car or public transport from Inverness, approximately 15 minutes away.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Leanach Farm
1.0 km
Experience authentic Highland farm life with luxury comfort, scenic views, and historic sites just minutes from Inverness.
Milton of Clava
1.3 km
Explore ancient Bronze Age burial cairns and standing stones in a serene Scottish setting near the historic Culloden Moor.
Culloden Viaduct
2.0 km
Scotland’s longest masonry viaduct, a stunning 29-arch railway bridge spanning the River Nairn valley near historic Culloden Battlefield.
Culloden House Hotel
2.7 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
5.2 km
Comfortable, eco-friendly hotel in Inverness offering modern rooms, free breakfast, and easy access to Highland attractions.
Inshes Gate Brewers Fayre
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Experience the warmth of family dining at Inshes Gate Brewers Fayre, featuring delicious British cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere.
Kingsmills Hotel
6.8 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
7.3 km
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Cheese & Tomatin
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Girvans
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Discover Girvans in Inverness, where delightful breakfasts and a warm atmosphere await, perfect for fueling your adventures in the Scottish Highlands.
Inverness Scotland
7.5 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
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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
0.2 km
Explore the haunting moor where the 1746 Battle of Culloden ended the Jacobite Rising, with immersive exhibits and historic memorials.
Cumberland Stone
0.6 km
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Clava Cairns
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Inverness Shopping Park
4.9 km
A spacious and accessible retail park offering diverse shops, dining, and entertainment just east of Inverness city centre.
Milton of Leys viewpoint
5.3 km
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Bannatyne’s Health Club And Spa
5.9 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
6.6 km
Premium motorbike hire in Inverness, your perfect start to the iconic North Coast 500 adventure through Scotland’s stunning Highlands.
Walker park
6.9 km
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Visit Inverness Loch Ness
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St Stephen's Church Inverness
7.4 km
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Eastgate Shopping Centre
7.5 km
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HMP Inverness
7.6 km
Scotland’s smallest local prison, blending historic architecture with modern rehabilitation in the heart of Inverness.
Market Brae Steps
7.6 km
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Falcon Square
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National memorial of Scotland
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Essential places to dine
Frankie & Benny's
4.9 km
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The Fluke
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D'Lish Restaurant and Bar
7.1 km
Experience authentic Scottish flavors at D'Lish Restaurant and Bar in Inverness - your perfect dining retreat amidst breathtaking Highland scenery.
Heathmount Hotel
7.3 km
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Little Italy
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Fig & Thistle
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Cozy modern Scottish bistro in Inverness serving fresh, locally sourced dishes with warm hospitality and a boutique atmosphere.
Loch & Larder
7.5 km
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Lorimers Family Restaurant
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Ash
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Number 27 Bar and Kitchen
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Aye Eat
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Cafe 1
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La Tortilla
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Experience authentic Spanish tapas and paella in Inverness’s oldest and most beloved tapas bar, blending vibrant flavors with Highland charm.
Salt’N’Fire
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The UK’s first fully vegan takeaway, serving bold, globally inspired street food in the heart of Inverness’s Victorian Market.
Kool Runnings
7.8 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
5.0 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
5.7 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
7.2 km
Inverness’s largest independent homewares store offering quality kitchenware, furniture, and household essentials with a family-run touch.
The Drawing Room
7.3 km
Discover unique, locally crafted gifts in a warm, inviting Inverness boutique that celebrates Highland creativity and culture.
White Stuff Inverness
7.5 km
Discover stylish, affordable clothing and accessories for the whole family at White Stuff Inverness, nestled in the vibrant Eastgate Shopping Centre.
Unique Ness
7.5 km
Discover Unique Ness, Inverness’s boutique home furniture shop offering distinctive pieces and creative homeware in Eastgate Shopping Centre.
Souvenir & Gift shop
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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
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Highland tweeds Inverness
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Keepsake Scotland
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Isle of Skye Candle Company - Inverness
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The Edinburgh Woollen Mill
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The Highlander Store
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The Works
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Rouge Boutiques
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Snow Goose
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Dows Bar
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The Imperial
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The Tooth & Claw
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Platform 8
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The Exchange
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Caledonian
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Playback
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The Gunsmiths Bar
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MacCallums Bar
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Lauders
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Revolution Inverness
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Market Bar
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The Malt Room
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Highlander
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Private Eyes Inverness
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Xplosive Discos
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Seaforth Club
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The Ross Shire Club
23.9 km
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the Balavoulin
35.4 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
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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
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SUIE BAR
40.1 km
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The Pine Marten Bar
42.0 km
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Shmelgin
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Moray Jazz Club
50.1 km
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Zed Bar
50.1 km
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Cultural Heritage
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
