Culloden House is the Highlands country-house stay at its most atmospheric. The Georgian mansion stands in nearly forty acres of woodland and private gardens in the Culloden area, about four miles east of Inverness city centre, and its history is part of the appeal. Bonnie Prince Charlie used the house as his lodging and headquarters in the weeks before the Battle of Culloden in 1745 to 1746. Today it is a luxury hotel with a fine dining restaurant, afternoon tea, a Hogmanay programme and a winter offers section, and it is a short drive from Culloden Battlefield, Clava Cairns and Fort George.
This is a hotel for people who want to sleep inside the history rather than just visit it. Expect an old-fashioned country-house atmosphere, with grand public rooms, period details and peaceful gardens. The woodland walks are a bonus in winter, when bare trees and low sun give the grounds a particular beauty.
Getting around: you are four miles from the centre of Inverness, so you will want a car or taxis for dinner in town, though the hotel offers dining on site. Culloden Battlefield and Clava Cairns are only minutes away, which makes this the best base in the area for visiting those two sites at quiet times, and the road west to Loch Ness and Skye is straightforward from the city.
Who it suits: couples, anniversaries and history lovers, plus anyone who wants a quiet Highland retreat and does not need to be in the middle of the city. Families should check the room options and rules, as it is a formal house. Good to know: the hotel runs special winter offers and a Hogmanay programme, so winter is a popular time to stay, and rates vary a great deal by season. Book dinner at the same time as your room, as dining is part of the experience, and ask about room categories because the historic building has rooms of varying size and style.
Why stay here
- ✓Georgian mansion with Jacobite history
- ✓Nearly 40 acres of woodland and gardens
- ✓Fine dining restaurant
- ✓Afternoon tea
- ✓Winter offers and Hogmanay programme
- ✓Near Culloden Battlefield
- ✓Woodland walks in the grounds
- ✓Quiet country setting
Good questions
How far is Culloden House from Inverness?+
The hotel is about four miles east of the city centre. A taxi or car is the easiest way to reach the city.
Is it close to Culloden Battlefield?+
Yes, Culloden Battlefield is nearby, and Clava Cairns is only a few minutes further. The house itself played a role in the 1745 to 1746 Jacobite story.
Does the hotel have dining?+
Yes, there is a restaurant, afternoon tea and a lunch menu on the official site. Booking ahead is wise, especially at weekends and festive times.
