For a castles touring enthusiast, traveling from Stirling Castle to Inverness offers a variety of options and attractions. From the historic grandeur of Stirling Castle to the breathtaking landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, this journey is a must-experience for any castle enthusiast.
Travel Time and Options
The journey from Stirling Castle to Inverness can be undertaken in several ways, each with its own advantages:
| Mode of Travel | Travel Time |
|---|---|
| Driving | Approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes |
| Train | Around 2 hours and 30 minutes |
| Bus | 4-5 hours |
Driving along the A9 and M9 motorways is a popular choice, allowing you to take in the stunning scenery at your own pace. The train journey, on the other hand, offers a more relaxed and scenic experience, with multiple departures throughout the day. For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, the bus service is also available, though the journey time is longer.
Must-see Attractions
Along the way from Stirling Castle to Inverness, there are several must-see attractions that should not be missed:
Dunrobin Castle
Located approximately 50 miles from Inverness, Dunrobin Castle is a stunning example of Scottish Baronial architecture. This fully furnished castle features impressive gardens and offers falconry demonstrations, providing a unique and memorable experience for castle enthusiasts.
Glencoe
The scenic route through Glencoe, spanning around 30 miles, is a true highlight of the journey. This breathtaking landscape, with its towering mountains and picturesque valleys, is a must-see for any visitor to the Scottish Highlands.
Culloden Battlefield
Near Inverness, the Culloden Battlefield is a historic site that holds great significance for those interested in Scottish history. However, please note that the site may be closed in November due to the shorter daylight hours during that time of year.
Stirling Castle Details
Stirling Castle, the starting point of this journey, is a must-visit destination for any castles touring enthusiast. Here are some key details about the castle:
- Opening Hours: Stirling Castle is open from 9:30 am to 6:00 pm from April to September, and from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm from October to March.
- Guided Tours: Free guided tours are available every half hour between 10 am and 3 pm, starting at the well outside the Fort Major’s House.
- Audio Guide: An audio guide can be purchased with tickets and used on personal mobile phones with internet access.
- British Sign Language Tour: A digital tour with Deaf guide John Hay is available for visitors who prefer this option.
Cost and Ticket Information
The cost of tickets to Stirling Castle varies depending on the time of year and visitor type. It’s recommended to check the Historic Environment Scotland website for the most up-to-date pricing information.
By following this guide, castles touring enthusiasts can plan and enjoy a seamless journey from Stirling Castle to Inverness, exploring the rich history, stunning landscapes, and unique attractions along the way.
References
- Rome2rio. (n.d.). Inverness to Stirling Castle – 4 ways to travel via train, bus, and night train. Retrieved from https://www.rome2rio.com/s/Inverness/Stirling-Castle
- Rome2rio. (n.d.). Stirling Castle → Inverness: Train, bus, night train, and car. Retrieved from https://www.rome2rio.com/s/Stirling-Castle/Inverness
- Historic Environment Scotland. (n.d.). Stirling Castle. Retrieved from https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/stirling-castle/
- TripAdvisor. (2023, February 18). Driving Stirling to Inverness – the scenic route? Retrieved from https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g186543-i626-k14284913-Driving_Stirling_to_Inverness_the_scenic_route-Inverness_Scottish_Highlands_Scotland.html
- Rick Steves Travel Forum. (2023, September 8). Visiting Stirling. Retrieved from https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/scotland/visiting-stirling.