During the Battle of Culloden, the Jacobites clashed fiercely with the government's left wing, forcing them to retreat as the government's second line moved around the buildings in this area to support the left wing. Today, Leanach Cottage stands on the site of the original farm buildings shown on contemporary battle maps. A cannonball was reportedly recovered from its turf wall over a hundred years ago. The last resident, Mrs. Annabell Cameron, left in 1912, after several generations of her family had guided visitors around the battlefield.
In the 1920s, efforts were made to protect the site from overzealous tour guides who would expose bones, leading to new soil being brought to the burial mounds. Local organizations, recognizing the need to preserve the battlefield, took action as the area faced increasing traffic and development. After the battle, many Scots experienced severe restrictions, including suppression of the Gaelic language and controls over traditional Highland dress.
Lachlan Mackintosh, whose family fought in the Jacobite Risings, built Raigmore Tower around 1820 to commemorate those who fought at Culloden. In 1881, Duncan Forbes of Culloden House commissioned the clan gravestones and memorial cairn that stand today, providing a central memorial to remember the battle.
A Day-Long Road Trip Through Scotland's History, Whisky, and Coastal Beauty
Embark on a journey that weaves together Scotland’s rich history, world-renowned whisky heritage, and breathtaking coastal landscapes, all in a single, unforgettable day.
Morning: The Battle of Culloden Begin your day with a visit to the Culloden Battlefield, located near Inverness. This haunting site marks the end of the Jacobite Rising and, tragically, the last pitched battle fought on the British mainland.
Midday: Speyside and Its Legendary Distilleries From Culloden, drive south into the heart of Speyside, Scotland’s premier whisky-producing region. Speyside is home to some of the most famous distilleries in the world, where you can savor the true spirit of Scotland. Visit the Glenlivet Distillery, known for its smooth, floral whisky, and BenRiach, which prides itself on innovation and tradition. Of course, no whisky tour would be complete without a stop at Cardhu Distillery, the first distillery to be officially pioneered by a woman.
Afternoon: The Beauty of Cullen and the Northern Coast After indulging in Speyside’s finest, head northeast towards the coast to the charming village of Cullen. This area is not only known for its stunning seaside views but also for Cullen Skink, a traditional Scottish soup made with smoked haddock, potatoes, and onions. Enjoy a bowl of this hearty dish before exploring the nearby Findlater Castle ruins. Perched dramatically on a cliff edge overlooking the Moray Firth, these ruins offer a glimpse into Scotland’s medieval past and provide spectacular views of the surrounding coast.
Evening: Bow Fiddle Rock and the Moray Firth Conclude your day with a visit to Bow Fiddle Rock, a natural sea arch that resembles the tip of a fiddle bow, located near the village of Portknockie. This iconic rock formation is a favorite among photographers and nature lovers, especially during sunset, when the play of light on the rock and the surrounding sea creates a magical atmosphere.
This day trip not only immerses you in the rich history and culture of Scotland but also showcases the stunning natural beauty that defines this land. From the tragic end of the Highland clans at Culloden to the serene beauty of Bow Fiddle Rock, this journey is a perfect blend of history, whisky, and coastal wonder.
