Culloden Battlefield Guide
Stand on Hallowed Ground: Remember the Battle of Culloden Guide
Step back in time and experience the poignant atmosphere of Culloden Battlefield, the site of the last pitched battle fought on British soil. This windswept moorland near Inverness is where the Jacobite rising of 1745 came to a tragic end, forever changing the course of Scottish history. A visit to Culloden is a deeply moving experience, offering a glimpse into a pivotal moment in the nation's past. The Battle of Culloden took place on April 16, 1746, between the Jacobite forces, led by Charles Edward Stuart (Bonnie Prince Charlie), and the British government troops, commanded by the Duke of Cumberland. The Jacobites, seeking to restore the Stuart dynasty to the throne, were decisively defeated in a brutal and bloody battle that lasted less than an hour. The aftermath was equally devastating, with widespread persecution of Jacobite supporters and the suppression of Highland culture. Visitors can explore the battlefield, marked by memorial cairns and clan gravestones. The Culloden Visitor Centre provides a comprehensive overview of the battle, its causes, and its consequences, through interactive exhibits, artifacts, and historical accounts. Guided tours are available, offering insights into the strategies, tactics, and personal stories of those who fought and died here. The surrounding landscape is beautiful and haunting, a fitting tribute to the fallen.
Transportation
The easiest way to reach Culloden Battlefield is by car. There is ample parking available at the visitor centre. Alternatively, you can take bus number 27 from Inverness Bus Station to Culloden Moor. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes.