Dalcross Castle – Nairn

Rent a Scottish castle and live like a Jacobite Laird.

Feb 4, 2007 Hugh Taylor

Two miles from Culloden Battlefield where the last battle on British soil took place in 1746, Dalcross Castle was the rallying point for the governments troops.

Many people are under the misapprehension that the Jacobite uprising was a Scottish versus English affair but nothing could be further from the truth for there were English Jacobites. Nor was it a religious war with Catholic pitted against Protestant or a Scottish civil war between the Lowlands and Highlanders.

This was a war between followers of the exiled Stuart King and the Hanovarian King George. Even familes were divided over the issue. Father fought against son, brother against brother and in the case of Dalcross while the Laird hosted the Duke of Cumberland his wife was raising her own troops in support of Bonnie Prince Charlie.

Dalcross was built by Simon, Lord Lovat, in 1620 and held by the Lovat Frasers until 1703 when it became the home of the Mackintosh Clan.

The castle is a classic Scottish tower house, complete with a beamed Great Hall and an enormous stone fireplace. Access to the upper levels is by way of a stone spiral staircase with shot holes and arrow slits.

Secluded behind stone walls and studded oak gates is a large garden and grounds through which the River Nairn flows. Protected by forest and farmland it is a natural habitat for red squirrels, roe deer, badgers, pine martens and abundant bird life.

It’s a magical place, ideal for a relaxing break and its available to rent. Dalcross lies between Inverness and Nairn and with the airport a short drive away it is very accessible.

Dalcross may be ancient but the present Laird has undertaken renovations bringing it firmly into the 21st century while retaining the heart and essence of the castle. Central heating keeps the whole place warm while roaring log fires add to the atmosphere in the reception rooms and gas fires allow a bit of extra heat in the bedrooms. Guests have the exclusive use of the landscaped gardens that were first laid out in the 18th century.

It’s a grand base for touring with championship golf courses, Loch Ness, Brodie, Cawdor and DunrobinCastles all within easy reach and more malt whisky distilleries than you could shake a stick at.

Dalcross Castle is rent on a self catering basis for weekend or weekly breaks. Contact estate manager Peta May for details or check their web site.

The copyright of the article Dalcross Castle – Nairn in U.K./Ireland Travel is owned by Hugh Taylor. Permission to republish Dalcross Castle – Nairn in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.