Below is a list of things to do and see in the Nairn and surrounding area, which we hope you will find useful in planning your holiday.
Please note that some facilities and venues may change their contact details and timing.
Click on the photographs to view at a larger size.
Beaches Castles and Buildings of Interest Daily Cruises
Day Trips Distilleries Entertainment Fishing
Gardens Golfing Museums Places to Eat *
Pony Trekking Shopping Steam Railway
= Facilities for
Disabled WWO
= Wet Weather Options
A guide is available in each Chalet which gives information on the suitability for disabled persons of the shops and venues in Nairn. Prepared by the Access Panel of Nairn.
Beaches
- There are many lovely
sandy beaches along the Moray Firth coast. Starting at Nairn the sands
stretch East to Culbin Sands, Findhorn, Roseisle, where I have seen deer
bathing in the sea in the early morning during summer, Burghead, Hopeman,
Lossiemouth, Garmouth and Buckie. You will probably find the beaches quiet
on most occasions which adds to the
attraction, and the peace and quiet.
Castles and Buildings of Interest
Ardclach Bell Tower - This Bell Tower, located above the River Findhorn with fine views over the surrounding country side. Approached by a long flight of steps. Approx 20 Mins from Lodges.
Ballindalloch Castle - 16th Century castle in the heart of Whisky country. Gardens, River walks, Audio visual, Tea room and shop. Open Easter - End September. Approx 1 hour from Lodges.
E mail: enquiries@ballindallochcastle.co.uk
View Website: www.ballindallochcastle.co.uk
Bridge of Oich
- The Bridge of Oich lies at the South end of Loch Ness about three
miles South of the Village of Fort Augustus. Located just off the main road to
Invergarry and Fort William, this bridge is no longer used by traffic. The
bridge, built by James Dredge in 1855 or 1856 served drovers, locals and other
traffic up to 1932 when it was superceded by a new bridge over the Caledonian
Canal.
James Dredge was a
Brewer who turned his interest and talents to bridge building helped by his
brother who was a blacksmith. Dredge used the taper principal in his design,
which was innovative for the time which allowed the structure to be built of
many small components.
Dredge built
approximately 50 such bridges, in Britain, India and the Caribbean. There are
only seven know surviving bridges in Britain, this one
being the only example in Scotland. The bridge uses cast iron in it's
construction and was recently repaired and renovated by Historic Scotland. The
bridge is open to the public and there is no charge.
Click the photographs to see the original and repaired bridge.
Brodie Castle - Run by the National Trust for Scotland, the castle is the ancient seat of the Brodie Family. Exhibits exist of fine furniture, porcelain and a collection of paintings. Extensive gardens and grounds open all year. Castle, shop and tea room are open April - October. Approx 7 miles from Lodges. WWO
Cawdor Castle
- 14th Century
home of the Thanes of Cawdor. On view are paintings, tapestries and a fine collection of
furniture. Gardens, restaurant, shops, nature trails and 9 hole golf course.
Open May - October. Approx 3 miles from Lodges. WWO
Clava Cairns - Clava Cairns are located near to Culloden Battlefield and consist of two large burial mounds and various standing stones. In the care of Historic Scotland, the Cairns mark the burial place of local inhabitants of thousands of years ago. Approx 15 mins from Lodges. Website: www.historic-scotland.gov.uk
Duff House - Located at Macduff some 2 hours drive from the Lodges. WWO
Dulsie Bridge - Dulsie Bridge is located over the River Findhorn and was built as a 'Wade' bridge to serve the Armies of the English following the defeat of Bonnie Prince Charlie. Built over a narrow gorge, the bridge is a feat of engineering itself, given the difference in level of the abutments on each side. The bridge has stood the test of time and the ravages of a great flood which which filled the gorge to within 3 feet of the main arch. Located South of the Lodges and approx 20 mins drive away.
Dunrobin Castle - The home and seat of the Earls and Dukes of Sutherland overlooking the Moray Firth. View family memorabilia, paintings, furniture and museum. Beautiful gardens, Falconry and tearoom. Located just North of the small town of Golspie. About 2 hours drive with panoramic views on the way over the Struie between Tain and Bonarbridge. WWO
Elgin Cathedral - Well preserved ruins of this 13th Century Cathedral on the East side of the town of Elgin which is approximately 24 miles East of Lodges. Open April - September and owned and run by Historic Scotland.
Website: www.historic-scotland.gov.uk
Fort George -
An impressive
Military Fortress built after the Battle of Culloden and located on the very
edge of the Moray Firth. Current home of an Army Battalion and cared for by
Historic Scotland, this 
Fortress is an outstanding example of Defensive Military
Design and one of the best examples in Europe. A walk round the ramparts is
almost 1 mile! Regimental Museum and display of 18th Century military life.
Coffee shop.
Open April - September. Approx 10 miles from Lodges.
Website: www.historic-scotland.gov.uk
Hugh Miller's Cottage - Situated in the village of Cromarty on the 'Black Isle'. The home of the Stonemason, eminent Geologist, Editor and Writer who was born in 1802. Run by the National Trust for Scotland. open May - September. Approx 45 mins from Lodges. WWO
Huntly Castle - Famed for it's Heraldic sculpture and a fine example of a Hall House. Owned and operated by Historic Scotland. Open April - September. About 11/2 drive from Lodges.
Inverness Castle - Inverness Castle
stands on the site of the original Fort George,
which was destroyed by the Jacobites two weeks proir to the Battle of Culloden
in 1746. The present castle serves as a Court and is in the care of the Scottish
Executive.
Next to Inverness Castle and in the right of this picture is the monument of Flora MacDonald, who was instrumental in secreting Bonnie Prince Charlie to the Western Isles following his defeat at Culloden.
Pluscarden Abbey - Located 6 miles from the town of Elgin the Abbey was founded in 1230. A Benedictine Abbey largely rebuilt over many year. Work is still ongoing. Open all year and free admmission. Approx 45 mins from Lodges.
Raitcastle
- Raitcastle is one of Scotlands small but unique castles with unusual
architectural features. Probably the scene of a massacre, this castle in its
present form dates back to the Wars of Independence and there is evidence to
suggest that there was a stronghold here for many centuries before this time. 15
mins walk from Lodges. See Web Page.
Urquhart Castle - Situated
on the shore of Loch Ness lies the ruins of one of Scotland's largest and
frequently fought over castles. Owned and run by Historic
Scotland. One of the
best locations to view Loch Ness and maybe even spot the "Monster"!
Near to the village of Drumnadrochit. Open every day April - September. Approx
30 miles from Lodges. Website: www.historic-scotland.gov.uk
Neptune's Staircase -
Neptune's Staircase is located near Fort William and at the
southern end of the Caledonian Canal. This series of locks lifts boats of all
kinds up to the level of the start of the Caledonian Canal which is a short cut
to Inverness and the moray firth in the north. Built by Thomas Telford in the
19th century the canal and is various locks are maintained and operated by
British Waterways. Approx 2 hours from Lodges.
Dolphin Cruises - These cruises take you out into the Moray Firth area from Inverness to see the Bottlenose Dolphins. Cruises start at Inveness Harbour, Shore Street. Approx 30 Mins from Lodges.
Castle Cruises Loch Ness - Sail over the deepest part of Loch Ness near Urquhart Castle and enjoy the scenery of the Great Glen. Approx 30 miles from Lodges.
E mail: castlecruiseslochness@talk21.com
Visit Loch Ness live at www.lochness.scotland.net/camera.htm
Jacobite Cruises - Sailing from Inverness down into Loch Ness, the cruise takes you from the North end of Loch Ness via the Caledonian Canal. The views are terrific!
E mail: jacobite@cali.co.uk
View Website: www.cali.co.uk/jacobite
Day Trips to Orkney via the John O'Groat's Ferry. Visit the beautiful Orkney Islands and see some of the many Archeological and ancient sites such as, the Ring of Brogar, Skarra Brae, Maes Howe. See Scapa Flow where the German Battlefleet was interred in 1919, and scene of the sinking of the Royal Oak in 1940, together with the Churchill Barriers and the Italian Chapel they are all worth visiting. Click on the above photograph for information on Day Trips.
Dallas
Dhu Distillery - Enjoy the Art of Distilling in authentic surroundings at a
picturesque Distillery Complex. Run by Historic Scotland
and located on the outskirts of Forres. Open April - September. Approx 10 miles
East of Lodges. WWO
Website: www.historic-scotland.gov.uk
Glen Fiddoch Distillery - Located
at Dufftown off the A941. See a Malt Whisky made and bottled. Guided Tours, Gift
Shop, Audio Visual. FREE ADMISSION. Recommended by my daughter Lindsay! WWO
View Website - www.glenfiddoch.com
Glenlivet - Learn about the Founder and his struggle to beat fierce opposition from smugglers and illicit whisky makers in the area. Tour the this famous distillery followed by a free dram. Open Mid March - end October. Admission charge. Approx 1 hour from Lodges.
View Website: www.theglenlivet.com
Strathisla Distillery - Home of Chivas Regal. Strathisla Distillery makes a single malt whisky which you can see in the process of manufacture. Admission charge. Children under 8 are not permitted in the production areas. Free coffee and a complimentary dram. Approx 1 hour from Lodges.
View Website: www.chivas.com
Balnain House - Highland Music. Celtic music including exhibitions, concerts, shop and mail order. Located in the heart of Inverness overlooking the River Ness. WWO
View Website: www.balnain.com
E mail: music@balnain.com
Eden Court Theatre - A variety of
shows and cinema throughout the year. A what's on brochure is available. Open
all year and located next to the River Ness flowing through Inverness. WWO
Scottish Showtime - Scottish
Showtime is a long running production. Traditional Scottish song, dance and
music. Suitable for all the family. Venue - The Spectrum Centre, Farraline
Park, Inverness. Tickets can be bought at the Show. Open June - September Mon -
Fri. WWO
Waltzing Waters - An elaborate show of
lights, water and music. Thousands of dazziling patterns of water moving to
music and synchronised with music. Set in a comfortable seated theatre, this is
a unique show. Open all year, 7 days a week, from the begining of February to
early December. Located at Newtonmore just off the A9 and approx 1 hour from
Lodges. WWO
All the following venues require a Permit. To obtain permits please contact the Tel Numbers given.
Geddes Trout Fishery - Located a few hundred yards from the Lodges.
Tel - Robbie Maclennan - 0403 128631
River and Loch Fishing - Within easy reach of the lodges is a good variety of river and loch fishing located amid beautiful scenery. A variety of fishing for Brown Trout, Sea Trout, Ferox Trout, Salmon and Pike is available at the following:-
*Please note that the information may have changed over time but was correct at time of printing.
1. Loch Benevan - Brown Trout - Boat - April - September.
Tel - 01456 415477
2. Tomich Hill Lochs - Brown Trout - Bank and Boat - May - August.
Tel - 01456 415352
3. Lock Meiklie - Native Brown Trout - Boat - April - October.
Tel - 01456 476275
4. River Glass - Salmon - Fly only - July to October.
Tel - 01456 415477
5. Loch Beanacharain - Brown Trout - Boat - April - September.
Tel - 01456 415477
6. River Farrar - Salmon and Brown Trout - Bank - April - September.
Tel - 01463 761285
7. River Beauly - Salmon and Brown Trout - Boat and Bank - Season varies for
stretch of river. Tel - 01463 782213
8. Beauly Lochs - Brown Trout - Boat or Bank - March - October.
Tel - 01463 782213
9. River Ness - Sea Trout and Salmon - Bank - January - October.
Tel - 01463 233178
10. Loch Ness - Brown Trout - Sea Trout - Ferox Trout - Salmon and Pike - Bank
and Boat - April - October. Tel - 01456 450279
11. River Oich - Salmon - Bank - January - October.
Tel - 01463 233178
12. Loch Knockie - Brown Trout - Boat - March - October.
Tel - 01456 486226
13. Loch Bran - Brown Trout - Boat - March - October.
Tel - 01456 486226
14. Loch Ruthven - Wild Brown Trout - Boat - March - October.
Tel - 01463 233178 or 01808 521314
15. River Nairn - Salmon - Sea and Brown Trout - Bank - Season varies. February -
October. Tel - 01667 453038 or 01463 233178
Floral Hall - Inverness. The Floral
Hall in Inverness is run by Highland Council. In a climatically controlled
environment there are fountains, ponds alive with tropical fish. The Hall also
contains an award wining Cactus House. Located on the West side of Inverness
just off the A82. The Hall is open all year. There is access for Disabled
Persons. Free carpark and next to the Aquadome mentioned below. WWO
Forres - Although not an actual
garden as such, the Floral displays at the Grant Park in Forres are very
colourul and well worth the time taken to stop and look. For a good many years
Forres has figured very highly in the Scotland in Bloom competitions. Open all
year. No charges made. Located on the East side of the Town Centre. Approx 20
mins from Lodges.
Inverewe Gardens -
A
spectacular Highland garden near the village of Poolewe. The gardens contain a
wide variety of unusual plants, including many rhododendrons
and azaleas and there are many paths offering
lovely walks through the gardens, with some spectacular views.
Run by the
National Trust for Scotland the gardens have a shop and licenced
restaurant. A journey to Inverewe takes you through some spectacular
Highland scenery and provides an all day excursion.
Speyside Heather Centre
- Located near Dulnain Bridge the Centre has a range of Spring, Summer and
Winter flowering Heathers to enhance any garden. Always best to plant in large
groups for best effect. Tea Room and shop. Approx 45 mins from Lodges.
View Website - www.heathercentre.com
e mail: enquiries@heathercentre.com
For the Golfers I have noted the various courses around the area. Although not a golfer myself, the quality and variety of courses available are bound to test your skills.
Aigas - A 9 hole course set in beautiful countryside beside the River Beauly.
Club and trolley hire available. Best book for weekends. 10 miles West of Inverness. Approx 45 mins from Lodges.
Culcabock - This course is located in Inverness itself. Probably a good course to play while the family are off shopping!
Fairways Golf Driving Range - Located in Inverness just on the Southern outskirts. The Range provides the chance to practice your technique. Open all year. Approx 25 mins from Lodges.
Forres - The Forres Course is located to the South of the town and is considered to be well worth playing.
Fort Augustus - A 9 hole course located to the South of the village of Fort Augustus which lies at the South end of Loch Ness.
Grantown - Located in this lovely small town in amid beautiful scenery. 18 holes.
Hopeman - An 18 hole course with one spectacular hole right on the edge of cliffs.
Nairn - Nairn has two Championship Courses. The Nairn Dunbar and the West, where the most recent Walker Cup was played. Both 18 holes. Located near the coast at Nairn and only 10 mins drive from the Lodges.
Torvean - Inverness. This course is 18 holes and is located on the Wast of Inverness just off the A82 not far from the Sports Centre and Aquadome.. It boasts one of the longest par 5's in Scotland. Approx 30 mins from Lodges.
Cromarty Courthouse Museum - Award winning displays of the village of Cromarty. Use latest technology to find out more about the village past and precsent. Open April - October and Nov, Dec and Mar. Located on the Black Isle approx 45 mins from Lodges. WWO
Dingwall Museum - The history of the Royal Burgh of Dingwall told in sound, pictures and text. Excellent local Military History room, reconstructed Smiddy and kitchen. Outdoor display area and small shop. Open May - September. Approx 45 mins from Lodges. WWO
Groam House Museum, Rosemarkie - Discover the Picts through the carved stones. Videos, activities temporary exhibitions and shop. Open during the week Easter - September and weekends October - April. located on the Black Isle opposite Fort George and Approx 40 mins from Lodges. WWO
Highland Folk Museum, Kingussie - An insight into the social and cultural history of the ordinary people of the Highlands, dramatically displayed through exhibitions and reconstructed buildings. See the Blackhouse, Clackmill and smokehouse.
Open - April - October. Approx 40 miles from Lodges on A9.
Highland Folk Museum, Newtonmore - Walk through an 18th century reconstructed Highland Township. Visit a working Croft and early 20th Century School. Open - April - October. Approx 45 mins from Lodges on A9.
Highland Museum of Childhood - Enjoy the story of Highland Childhood through photographs, displays, doll collection, toys and games. Open - April - October. Located at Strathpeffer and approx 1 hour from Lodges. WWO
Inverness Museum and Art Gallery -
Highland Heritage on display. Exhibition of Archeology, Art, Natural and local
History. Open all year. Located in the centre of Inverness adjacent to the Town
House. Approx 25 mins form Lodges. WWO
The Queens Own Highlanders Museum, Fort George - 200 years of history of this famous Battalion is told through it's treasures. Open all year. approx 10 miles from Lodges. WWO
Highland Riding Centre - Located at Borlum Farm, Drumnadrochit and on the edge of Loch Ness the Centre has well schooled horses and rides are grouped according to ability. Qualified instruction. 1, 11/2, 2 and 3 hour rides daily. Approx 30 miles form Lodges.
Shopping in Inverness - Inverness has practically every major national retailer either in it's main streets or at prime locations around the town. The Eastgate Centre contains Marks and Spencers, Boots, Next and many more. The High Street and other main streets have major Banks, Building Societies as well as many smaller local firms. There is a Victorian Arcade with many small shop units offering a variety of goods and services. Approx 16 miles from lodges.
Shopping in Nairn - Nairn is a small town 16 miles from Inverness and has a variety of shops, as well as Antique shops. The local supermarkets are open every day including Sundays, and offer the opportunity to obtain everything you need without having to travel to Inverness and take time out of your planned day. Approx 4 miles from Lodges.
Brodie Countryfare - Exclusive
quality gifts, countrywear, knitwear and top fashion clothing. Foodhall and
traditional Scottish restaurant. Open all year. Approx 7 miles from Lodges.
* * * * * * * * * * * *
Strathspey Steam Railway - Travel between Boat of Garten and Aviemore and view the Cairngorms whilst have lunch. Located approx 1 hour from Lodges.
Baxter's of Speyside - Home
of the famous Baxter's soups and preserves. On display is the original Baxter's
shop with an array of long forgotten labels and containers for everyday
goods many of which the present generation have not seen and which are probably
collectors items. Speciality shops and restaurant. Audio/visual display,
culinary theatre and demonstrations. Open all year. On the outskirts of the
village of Fochabers. Approx 34 miles East of Lodges. WWO
View Website - www.baxters.com
Culloden Battlefield - Scene of the
last battle fought on British soil. In 1746 Bonnie Prince Charlie was defeated
by the Duke of Cumberland at this site on the high ground above Inverness.
Exhibition area, Audio visual show and tearoom. Walk round the Battlefield and
see the positions of the Armies. operated and cared for by The National Trust
for Scotland. Disabled facilities. Open all year. Located
near Inverness and approx 15 mins from Lodges. View Website - www.nts.org.uk
Johnstons of Elgin Cashmere Visitor Centre - See raw Cashmere and wool being made into quality woven and knitted products. Free exhibition, audio-visual tour. Coffee shop. Open June - September. located in the town of Elgin. Approx 24 miles East of Lodges. WWO
Website: www.johnstons-of-elgin.com
Made in Scotland - Goods of all kinds. Shop, resaurant and gallery. Located in Beauly near Inverness. Open 7 days a week and all year. Aprrox 45 mins from Lodges.
View Website: www.made-in-scotland.co.uk WWO
e mail: mis@enterprise.net
The Scottish Kiltmaker Visitor Centre - Situated on the banks of the River Ness in Inverness. See the different stages of kilt manufacture and how much cloth goes into a kilt. Short film. Open all year. Parking available at Eden Court approx 200yds. Convenient for centre of Inverness. Approx 30 mins from Lodges.
E mail: info@highlandhouseoffraser.com
View Website: www.highlandhouseoffraser.com
Adjacent to the Lodges - There are some nice quiet easy going walks from the Lodges, fine for an evening stroll or for taking the dog for a walk. The quiet single track road takes you through a lovely wooded setting to the 'Village' of Geddes. Don't be surprised if there is no Post Office, no Baker, or no village Garage. Geddes Village is a Hamlet of only 6 houses! Alternatively, you can take a stroll up to the ruins of Rait Castle only a few hundred yards from the Lodges, or up to Robbie's Trout Fishery, again only a few hundred yards away.
Beaches - The beaches mentioned at the top of the page provide very good walks. Ideal for exercising the dog or for some fresh sea air.
Culbin Forest - Extensive forest walks near the shores of the Moray Firth. Site of a great sand storm which changed the landscape and buried a village. Walk to Flowers of the Forest Trail fromm Wellhill Carpark. Owned by the Forestry Commission. Approx 10 miles from Lodges.
Glen Affric - Glen Affric is one of the most beautiful of the Scottish Glens and has in it's environs areas of Caledonian Pine. The Caledonian Pine is a relatively rare species of tree which over the centuries has diminished to small areas which are now being protected. A walk at Glen Affric can be as long or as short as you wish but, whichever you choose, you will be in an area of unspoilt countryside. A walk round the Loch may take you 2 -3 hours. There is a carpark and picnic area at the head of the Loch a few miles from the village of Cannich. Approx 11/4 hours drive from the Lodges.
Highland Wildlife Park - Located on the B9152 just off the A9 Near Kincraig, 7 miles South of Aviemore. See Scottish Wildlife past and present and discover Wolf Territory and the Brightwater Burn otters. Large herds of Red Deer, Bison, Wild Horses, Highland Cattle roaming free. Walk around on foot and meet a wonderful variety of creatures including Wild Cat, Lynx, Reindeer, Arctic Fox, Badgers, Owls, Grouse and Capercaillie. Visitor Centre with Coffee Shop. Open All Year.
Website: www.kincraig.com/wildlife
Facilities for Disabled People
Nairn
Hydrotherapy Pool - The pool is located in the
grounds of Nairn Hospital. Open all year. Approx 10 mins from
Lodges.
It can be difficult sometimes to find things for kids when on holiday but, rest assured, there are many places and activities for kids in the Highlands. Here are a few of them.
Black Isle Wildlife and Country Park - Meet friendly animals, see the Waterfowl Collection, Goats, Sheep, and Wallabies, Lamas, Meercats, Racoons, Rabbits, Ducks, Geese and Swans, and Pigs! Picnic area tearoom and shop. Children under 5 go Free. Located 5 mins North of Inverness just off the A9. Open - March - November. Approx 30 mins from lodges.
Drum Farm - Farmyard fun! Tractor trailer rides, play in the Straw Barn, have fun on kids Tractors, Ball pond and friendly animals. Indoor sandpit. Located at the Village Green Drumnadrochit beside Loch Ness. open April - October. Approx 30 miles from Lodges.
Highland Wildlife Park - Located on the B9152 just off the A9 Near Kincraig, 7 miles South of Aviemore. See Scottish Wildlife past and present and discover Wolf Territory and the Brightwater Burn otters. Large herds of Red Deer, Bison, Wild Horses, Highland Cattle roaming free. Walk around on foot and meet a wonderful variety of creatures including Wild Cat, Lynx, Reindeer, Arctic Fox, Badgers, Owls, Grouse and Capercaillie. Visitor Centre with Coffee Shop. Open All Year.
Website: www.kincraig.com/wildlife
Inverness Aquadome
- For family fun Inverness
Aquadome has a competition pool, flumes, wave lagoon, Ness Monster Ride, spa
pool, 
sauna and other attraction.
Family and baby changing areas. Located on the
outskirts on Inverness at the Sports Centre on the A82 and run by Highland
Council. Open 7 days. Approx 30 mins from Lodges. WWO
Landmark - The Landmark Centre is an outdoor centre located in the village of Carrbridge. Situated in woodland it has big slides, chutes, arial ropeway, treetop trail and viewing tower. You can very often see the red squirrels on your walk through the woods which are on duckboards to protect the habitat and help keep feet clean! There is also a working sawmill powered by steam where you can get close to see it in operation. A tearoom and shop are adjacent to the carpark. Approx 45 mins drive from Lodges.
Nairn Swimming Pool - Located
at the Nairn Links overlooking the Moray Firth and only 10 mins from Lodges.
Open all year. WWO
Cinema -
Warner Village Cinemas multi screen cinema offers a choice of films throughout
the day and is located on the Eastern outskirts of Inverness just off the A96.
Approx 25 mins from Lodges. WWO
Rollerbowl -
Tenpin Bowling. What more can
I say. Located on the Southern outskirts of Inverness and Open all year. Approx
25 mins from Lodges. WWO
Strathspey Steam Railway - Travel between Boat of Garten and Aviemore and view the Cairngorms whilst have lunch. Located approx 1 hour from Lodges. For further information visit.
* * *
Waltzing Waters - An
elaborate show of lights, water and music. Thousands of dazziling patterns of
water moving to music and synchronised with music. Set in a comfortable seated
theatre, this is a unique show. Open all year, 7 days a week, from the begining
of February to early December. Located at Newtonmore just off the A9 and approx
1 hour from Lodges. WWO
* * *
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2000
Burnside and Mill Lodges
