Castles are deservedly popular with many of our guests and whilst staying at Home Farm you will be spoilt for choice.  The problem many of our visitors tell us, is which to visit first, or which one today.

All of the castles listed below are worth a visit and all within 75 minutes  from Home Farm.

Inverness Castle

Inverness Castle stands imposingly above the banks of the River Ness.  Built of red sandstone in 1836 by architect William Burn, the site was originally an 11^th century defensive structure.  Although the Castle itself is closed to visitors it can be viewed from the Grounds, which are open to the public.  An earlier building was blown up by Bonnie Prince Charlie.

Urquhart Castle

Urquhart Castle sits on the shores of Loch Ness near to the village of Drumnadrochit.  Its elevated position overlooking the Loch makes it a perfect place for Nessie spotters.  It commands excellent views up the length of the Loch.  This medieval Castle has had a turbulent 500 year history and has played a major role in many past conflicts.  Now in the care of  Historic Scotland, the Castle has an excellent visitor centre, ample car parking and a coffee shop/restaurant.  A visit to Urquhart Castle is a must.

Dunrobin Castle

Dunrobin Castle must surely rank amongst one of the  finest stately homes in all of Scotland.  It is the largest of the “great houses” in the Northern Highlands, with 189 rooms and has been home to Clan Sutherland for over 700 years.  Perched high above the Moray firth, the Castle commands magnificent seaward views.  With its towering conical spires the Castle resembles a French chateau.  The Castle has numerous rooms which house an impressive collection of paintings, furniture and other valuable antiques.  Separate to the Castle in the formal gardens there is a museum which houses many archaeological relics, including a collection of Pictish symbol stones and  cross slabs.  The museum was originally a summer house.

On returning from Dunrobin one of the major talking points our guests have from their visit, is the Castles falconry display which is held twice daily in the Castle Gardens.  The Castles resident falconer gives an informative and entertaining insight into this ancient art and an impressive show of his many different birds hunting skills.  Photographic opportunities abound so make sure you have your camera packed.  Situated just north of Golspie on the east coast, Dunrobin is just over an hour from Home Farm.

Cawdor Castle

Cawdor Castle dates from the late 14^th Century and started life as a private fortress for the  Thanes of Cawdor.  Located just south of the A96 close to Nairn, the Castle is well sign posted and only 40 minutes from Home Farm.

Looking very much the  “fairytale” Castle, Cawdor houses an impressive collection of art and antiques and has an amazing Castle kitchen dating back to 1640.

There are several beautiful gardens surrounding the Castle itself along with a variety of woodland walks.  You will not be disappointed by a visit.

Brodie Castle

This 16^th century Castle is set in its own extensive landscaped grounds.  Home and seat of Clan Brodie for numerous generations the Castle hosts an absolute treasure trove of antique furniture, paintings and ceramics. Collections from all around Europe and China are on show in the castles many rooms, whilst the magnificent library hosts over 6000 volumes.

Outside landscaped gardens, a large pond, nature trails and wildlife hides provide plenty of interest.  Located close to Cawdor, it makes an ideal choice for guests wanting to “bag” a couple of Castles before returning to Home Farm.

Eilean Donan Castle

One of the most famous Castles in Scotland, its image is easily recognisable from all parts of the globe.  Situated on a small island, the Castle stands at the joining of three sea lochs, Loch Alsh, Loch Long and Loch Duich. Surrounded by the magnificent scenery of Scotland's West coast, the Castle makes an immediate and unforgettable impression.  Popular with many visitors to Home Farm, the Castle makes for an exciting and memorable trip to the west, again don’t forget your camera.

Castle Leod

Located in the spa village of Strathpeffer, Castle Leod the seat of Clan Mackenzie and home to the Earl of Cromartie.  Open to the public on a limited number of days.  It is the common held belief that Castle Leod is the actual real life “Castle  Leoch of Diane Gabaldon’s “Outlander” series, the landscaped grounds have a rowan tree planted by the author.  Located only a short distance from Home Farm, the Castle opens to the public on a selection of days from April to September.