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Fortress · Inverness, Escócia
Fort George
The 18th-century military fortress built after Culloden on a promontory of the Moray Firth, 18 km from Inverness, with star-shaped walls, barracks still in use and dolphins in the estuary.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Fort George
Fort George is an artillery fortress on a promontory of the Moray Firth, about 18 km northeast of Inverness. It was built between 1748 and 1769, soon after the Battle of Culloden, so the government could control the Highlands and prevent another Jacobite uprising. It was never attacked and remains a British Army barracks, which has kept it almost intact.
The walls form a star of bastions, with almost 1.6 km of perimeter, and you can walk on top of them, with views over the estuary and the mountains of the Black Isle. Inside, the stone barracks, powder magazines and the garrison chapel show soldiers' life in the 18th century; some rooms are set up as they were at the time. The regiment museum The Highlanders displays uniforms, medals and weapons.
The Moray Firth is one of the places in Britain where bottlenose dolphins can be seen from the coast, and the walls of Fort George and Chanonry Point, on the opposite shore, are observation points, especially at high tide. Animal sightings are not guaranteed.
The fortress is owned by Historic Environment Scotland. Winter opening hours are shorter; check the website.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 1h30 to 2 hours, including the walls, the barracks and the museum.
Best time
On a clear day, from spring to autumn. To try to see dolphins, go at high tide, between summer and early autumn. Check opening times, which are shorter in winter.
How to get there
It is about 18 km northeast of Inverness, near Ardersier, via the B9006, 25 minutes by car. There is no convenient direct bus; go by car, taxi or tour. It is 15 km from Culloden.
Tip
Combine with Culloden on the same day: the fortress was built because of the battle. Bring binoculars for dolphins in the estuary.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Fort George
Why was Fort George built?
So that the government could control the Highlands after the Battle of Culloden in 1746.
Is it still a barracks?
Yes, it remains an Army barracks and part of the fortress is open to visitors.
Can you see dolphins at Fort George?
Sometimes, in the Moray Firth, especially at high tide. Animal sightings are not guaranteed.