A Journey Through Time: From Beauly Priory to Urquhart Castle

Our journey began at the historic Beauly Priory, a site that, despite being closed due to recent renovations, still managed to captivate us from the gates. Founded in the 13th century by Valliscaulian monks from Dijon, France, the Priory’s ruins whisper tales of its storied past. It was here that the chiefs of Clan Fraser and Mackenzie found their final resting place, and where the fictional Claire from the Outlander series met the Seer. The Priory’s history is a testament to the turbulent times it has witnessed, including its destruction by Cromwell’s forces in the 16th century.

Our guide, Billy, was a veritable font of knowledge, weaving historical anecdotes with modern-day insights. His enthusiasm was infectious, and he tailored the tour to our interests, ensuring we experienced the essence of each location. As we traveled over Culnakirk Hill to Drumnadrochit, the anticipation of visiting Urquhart Castle grew. Perched on a promontory overlooking Loch Ness, the castle’s ruins are a poignant reminder of Scotland’s medieval past. The views of the loch were breathtaking, and as we explored the castle’s remnants, I couldn’t help but imagine the countless battles fought over this strategic site.

The Mystique of Loch Ness and the Battlefields of Culloden

Leaving Urquhart Castle, we journeyed towards Inverness, passing the Hill of the Fairies, a place steeped in local folklore. Our next stop was the Culloden Battlefield, a site that holds a somber place in British history. The Battle of Culloden in 1746 marked the end of the Jacobite uprising and was the last battle fought on British soil. Walking through the battlefield, Billy recounted the events with such vivid detail that it felt as though we were witnessing history unfold before our eyes.

The battlefield is dotted with poignant memorials, including the Well of the Dead and the gravestones of the clans who fought valiantly. The museum on-site offers a deeper understanding of the battle’s significance, and for fans of the Outlander series, it’s a must-visit. Despite the heavy history, Billy’s storytelling kept us engaged, and even those in our group who weren’t familiar with the series found themselves enthralled by the tales of bravery and loss.

Discovering Inverness: From Castles to Cairns

Our exploration of Inverness was a delightful blend of history and charm. We passed by Inverness Castle, the third iteration on this site, with its roots tracing back to 1057. The statue of Flora Macdonald, famed for aiding Bonnie Prince Charlie’s escape, stands proudly in the castle grounds. As we wandered through the city, we stumbled upon Leakey’s Second-hand Bookshop, a treasure trove for any bibliophile, housed in a former church that once served as a hospital after the Battle of Culloden.

The Old High Church, with its musket hole-riddled walls, stands as a stark reminder of the past, while the nearby Clava Cairns offered a glimpse into the Bronze Age. These ancient burial sites, with their stone circles and cleft stones, inspired the Outlander series and are a testament to the region’s rich prehistoric heritage. Our final stop was Cawdor Castle, a site with connections to Macbeth and one of the few castles in the Highlands unaffected by the Jacobite uprisings. Although it was closed during our visit, the gardens and the stories shared by Billy made it a memorable experience.

This Private Tour was more than just a journey through Scotland’s history; it was an exploration of its soul. Billy’s passion and knowledge brought each site to life, leaving us with memories that will linger long after our return home. As we plan our next visit for my niece’s graduation, there’s no doubt that we’ll be reaching out to Billy once more, eager to uncover more of Scotland’s hidden gems.