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Loch Ness, Cawdor & Urquhart Castles Shore Excursion from InvergordonThis Invergordon to Urquhart Castle shore excursion travels along the beautiful Loch Ness and includes visits to two of the Scottish Highlands' castles: Urquhart Castle and Cawdor Castle. You also cruise on Loch Ness and have free time in the town of Inverness. After meeting your guide in Invergordon you start your scenic drive, passing over the Moray Firth on the Kessock Bridge. Your first stop is Cawdor Castle, dating to the late 14th century, with a license to fortify the tower granted in 1454. You tour the castle, visiting rooms such as the Tapestry Bedroom, the Drawing Room, the Old Kitchen, the Dining Room and more, seeing period furnishings and art that give you insight into times past. There are also three gardens on the site. Next you have free time in Inverness, regarded as the capital of the Highlands of Scotland, where you can have lunch in a typical Scottish pub. After lunch you board a cruise at Clansman Harbour and travel along Loch Ness, taking in some of Scotland's most scenic countryside. You disembark at Urquhart Castle, once one of the largest castles in medieval Scotland. The castle was built from the 13th century on a strategic spot with the waters of Loch Ness on three sides of the site. In 1296 the English seized it, and in 1545 it was sacked by the MacDonald Lords of the Isles. Finally, in 1692, its gatehouse was blown up by government soldiers so that Jacobite rebels could not use it. It was never rebuilt and fell into ruins. Today the castle is cared for by Historic Environment Scotland, and you can explore the castle ruins, its five-storey tower, and a modern visitor center with medieval artifacts found at the site. Your guide will share some of the many legends of Loch Ness along the way. Please note - Due to uneven surfaces, steps, and walking distances, this itinerary is not suitable for guests using wheelchairs. Please contact us for alternative sightseeing options, including private driving tours that may better accommodate your needs.
What's IncludedIncluded- Pick up from Hotel or Port of Invergordon
- Private Vehicle with English Speaking Licensed Guide
- Included Visits- Cawdor and Urquhart Castles, Loch Ness Cruise
Not Included- Meals and beverages
- Gratuities (optional, at your discretion)
- Personal shopping
Tour TimingAll times are approximate and will vary based on your group's pace and interests. 1 2 1.5 Hours Visit Cawdor Castle 3 2 Hours Visit Inverness with Time for Lunch 4 5 1.5 Hours Visit Urquhart Castle 6 1 Hour Return to Invergordon
ResourcesPort of Cromarty Firth - Invergordon Cruise. Cruise port where your guide meets you and the tour begins and ends. Official Website Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat is included on the Loch Ness, Cawdor and Urquhart Castles tour?
A licensed English-speaking guide and private vehicle for your group, entry to Cawdor Castle and Urquhart Castle, a cruise on Loch Ness from Clansman Harbour, and free time in Inverness with time for lunch on your own.
Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
No. Due to uneven surfaces, steps, and walking distances at the castles, this itinerary is not suitable for wheelchair users. Contact us about private driving tour alternatives.
What actually happened to Urquhart Castle?
The castle was seized by the English in 1296 and changed hands several times during Scotland's Wars of Independence. In 1692, government soldiers blew up its gatehouse to keep it out of Jacobite hands, and it was never rebuilt.
How old is Cawdor Castle?
The oldest stonework dates to around 1380, and in 1454 the Thane of Cawdor was granted a license to fortify the tower. The castle is still owned by the Cawdor family today. Its association with Shakespeare's Macbeth is literary rather than historical, since the play is set centuries before the castle was built. Also Available: ›Highlights of Loch Ness - From Invergordon cruise port, this tour is best for those who only have limited time. You enjoy a scenic drive and lake cruise along the beautiful Loch Ness including a visit to the Urquhart Castle, which was once one of the largest castles in Scotland. A licensed English-speaking guide accompanies you throughout. ›Dunrobin Castle and Dalmore Distillery - From Invergordon cruise port, the highlight of this tour is a visit to the Dunrobin Castle, regarded as one of the "Jewels of the Scottish Highlands". You also enjoy free time in the town of Dornoch and a visit to the famous Dalmore Distillery. A licensed English-speaking guide accompanies you throughout. Our Back-to-Ship Guarantee Every excursion returning 1.5 hours before departure is covered. If we are late, we cover your costs to reach the next port. More info ›
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Review Location- Invergordon 
