Things to do in Nairn

Our small group tour day begins in the morning with a brief tour of Inverness' sights before heading to our first stop: Culloden Battlefield. This poignant site marks the end of the 1745 Jacobite Rising. Here, you'll learn about the battlefield's history, walk its grounds, and even explore any family connections you may have to the area (optional extra). Next, we visit the Clava Cairns, the remains of a once larger complex used for housing the dead. This site offers insight into life over 4,000 years ago and Scotland's Bronze Age society. Fans of Outlander may enjoy the prehistoric stone circle that inspired Craigh Na Dun in the series. We then continue to Fort George (optional extra), an imposing fort built after the Battle of Culloden. This massive fortification took over 22 years to construct and is essential for military history enthusiasts. It houses the largest regimental museum outside of Edinburgh and is still an active army base, home to the Black Watch, 3rd Battalion, The Royal Regiment of Scotland. After absorbing the rich history here, we head to the northern coast in Nairn for lunch in this charming seaside town. As we travel through the scenic Cairngorms, we’ll stop at Loch an Eilein for a photo op. This stunning loch features a small island with castle ruins, aptly named “loch of the island” in Gaelic. It’s a perfect photo spot, so keep an eye out for the local wildlife. Our final stop is Aviemore, where you'll have time to explore this beautiful village nestled in the northwest corner of the Cairngorms National Park, surrounded by mountains and lochs. It’s an ideal place to grab a coffee before we journey back to Inverness to conclude our tour.

Day 1 Embark from Edinburgh, journey north, and cross Queensferry Crossing to the historic Kingdom of Fife. Explore Falkland Palace, once a royal hunting lodge, where Mary Queen of Scots played tennis on the world's oldest court. Wander the medieval village seen in Outlander. Head to St Andrews for lunch and discovery of its cobblestone streets and ancient university. In the afternoon, venture further north to Dunnottar Castle, a majestic cliff-top ruin featured on travel magazine covers. Capture breathtaking views and sharpen your photography skills. You spend your night in Aberdeen. Day 2 Explore Royal Deeside, renowned for its castles. Begin at Castle Fraser, a grand Scottish tower house. Enjoy a stroll in the 18th-century walled garden. Head to Ballater, a royal-associated village, for lunch. Afternoon at Crathes Castle, a fairytale-like fortress with a haunted history. Wander freely through the house and gardens. Marvel at the June Borders for stunning castle views. You return to Aberdeen for another overnight. Day 3 Venture north to Fyvie Castle, dating to the 13th century, housing a remarkable collection of arms, armor, and 17th-century tapestries. Travel through scenic landscapes to Elgin for lunch. Explore the intricately carved Pictish stone at ruined Elgin Cathedral. Afternoon visit to Culloden Battlefield, the poignant end of the Jacobite Rising. Walk the tragic landscape, honoring those who fell in the last battle on British soil. You continue to Nairn for your overnight stay. Day 4 Travel south through Scotland's breathtaking landscapes. Visit Cardhu, the pioneering distillery by Helen Cumming. Pass Kingussie for a quick stop at Ruthven Barracks. Explore Blair Castle, rich in history and adorned with a ballroom featuring 175 antlers. Wander the 9-acre Georgian garden and enjoy lunch. Journey through Perthshire's lush woodlands, pausing in picturesque towns. Return to Edinburgh over the Firth of Forth in the evening.