Culloden – From Outlander To Bonnie Prince Charlie
Visiting Culloden Battlefield is a powerful and moving experience, offering insight into one of the most significant and tragic events in Scottish history. Located just 5 miles east of Inverness in the Scottish Highlands, Culloden Moor is easily accessible by car and is a popular stop for many of Aura Tours Scotland’s visitors.
The site marks the location of the Battle of Culloden, fought on 16 April 1746. This was the final confrontation of the Jacobite Rising, where supporters of Charles Edward Stuart (Bonnie Prince Charlie) attempted to restore the Stuart monarchy to the British throne. The battle itself was shockingly brief, lasting less than an hour, yet devastating in its impact, with around 1,600 men killed—most of them Jacobites. This defeat effectively ended the Jacobite cause and had lasting consequences for Highland culture, including the suppression of traditional dress and customs.
Today, the battlefield has been carefully preserved and restored to resemble its appearance in 1746. Visitors can walk across the moor using well-maintained paths, passing key landmarks such as the Memorial Cairn and clan grave markers. The battlefield itself is open year-round and can be accessed free of charge, making it a meaningful stop for anyone exploring the Highlands.
For a deeper understanding, the Culloden Visitor Centre, run by the National Trust for Scotland, offers an immersive experience. Inside, you’ll find interactive exhibits, artefacts from both sides of the conflict and a powerful cinematic presentation that recreates the battle. Facilities include a café, gift shop, parking, and guided tours, as well as accessibility features for visitors.
There is an admission charge for the visitor centre, typically around £12.50 for adults, with concessions and family tickets. Opening hours vary seasonally, but the centre generally operates between 9:00am and 4:00–6:00pm depending on the time of year, with last entry usually 30 minutes before closing.
Culloden also holds a strong connection to popular culture through the television series Outlander. The battle plays a major role in the storyline, particularly in the early seasons. As well as being integral to the story, Culloden Moor itself appears in scenes set in the 20th century, where characters visit the site as a memorial. The famous Clan Fraser grave marker, linked to the show’s protagonist Jamie Fraser, has become a focal point for fans visiting the battlefield. Culloden is just one of a number of Outlander related sites that Aura Tours Scotland visit.
Overall, Culloden is not just a historic site but a place of remembrance. Its combination of raw landscape, thoughtful interpretation, and cultural significance makes it one of Scotland’s most compelling visitor attractions.
For more information on Culloden, how to visit it, where to stay and the many activities available in the area, contact Aura Tours Scotland today.
