Prince Charlie's Cave facts for kids

Many caves in the Scottish Highlands are known as Prince Charlie's Cave. These caves are special because they are believed to have hidden Charles Edward Stuart, also known as Bonnie Prince Charlie. He was on the run after a big battle called the Battle of Culloden. This battle was a major event in Scottish history.

What Are Prince Charlie's Caves?

Prince Charlie's Caves are places where Charles Edward Stuart supposedly hid. He was trying to escape from the Duke of Cumberland's soldiers. This happened after the Jacobite forces lost the Battle of Culloden in 1746. Many caves across Scotland are linked to his escape.

Who Was Bonnie Prince Charlie?

Charles Edward Stuart was a young prince who wanted to take back the throne for his family. He was part of the Stuart royal family. In 1745, he led a rebellion known as the Jacobite Rising. His goal was to make his father the King of Great Britain. Many Scottish clans supported him.

The Battle of Culloden and Escape

The Jacobite Rising ended with a terrible defeat at the Battle of Culloden on April 16, 1746. This battle was fought near Inverness, Scotland. After the defeat, Prince Charlie became a fugitive. He had to hide from the government troops who were searching for him. He spent five months on the run, traveling across the Highlands and Islands. During this time, he relied on the help of loyal supporters. They often hid him in secret places, including caves.

Where Are These Caves?

There are many stories about where Prince Charlie hid. Because he traveled so much, many different caves are called "Prince Charlie's Cave." It's hard to know exactly which ones he used.

Famous Hiding Spots

One famous cave is said to be on Meilchan. This is a small green hill overlooking Loch nan Uamh in Druimindarroch, Inverness-shire, Scotland. Another well-known hiding place was near Ben Alder. Here, Prince Charlie stayed for two weeks in September 1746. He was with a loyal supporter named Ewen MacPherson of Cluny. This was just before he finally left Scotland for France on September 20. There are also at least two caves in South Uist linked to him. One is in Gleann Corghadail, and another is north of Beinn Ruigh Choinnich. A third possible cave is in Èiseabhal.

These caves are important parts of Scottish history. They remind us of Prince Charlie's daring escape and the loyalty of his supporters.

Gallery

• Prince Charlie's Cave
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  Bonnie Prince Charlie's Cave This is one of the many caves associated with Bonnie Prince Charlie whilst he was a fugitive in the highlands after the Battle of Culloden.

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  Bonnie Prince Charlie's Cave Whilst a fugitive following Culloden, Charlie was hidden here for several days in the summer of 1746 by the 'Seven Men of GlenMoriston'

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  Bonnie Prince Charlie's Cave This is one of the many caves associated with Bonnie Prince Charlie.

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  Cliff wall behind Prince Charlie's cave. Charlie's escape route!

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  Birch woods above Prince Charlie's cave. Loch Lon a'Ghairt in background. The two paths marked on the map are not clear once over the col. The lower path leads across treacherous ground near the cave. Stay above the trees for an easier descent to the loch.

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  Rock slope failure on Glas-charn Glas-charn is a 600m rugged hill above Loch Beoraid.