Experiences

A coastal drive of only 15min from Firthside House lies the mightiest artillery fortification in Britain, Fort George. After the 1746 defeat at Culloden, George II constructed the ultimate defence against further intruders. Its garrison buildings (artillery defences teeming with cannons), weapons including bayoneted muskets, swords, ammunition pouches, and pikes display a fascinating insight into the military life of the 18th century.

If you are interested in warfare history, the Battlefield of Culloden is a fascinating place to visit. A short 20min drive from Firthside House lies this legendary battlefield where the Battle of Culloden took place over 200 years ago - one of the most harrowing battles in British history. It was here the Jacobite supporters fought against the Duke of Cumberland’s government troops and in just under an hour, 1600 men were slain. A visit to the Battlefield of Culloden is a highly recommended trip if you are looking for an insightful and historical activity while staying at Firthside House, Culloden Moor, Culloden, Inverness, IV2 5EU

Another beautiful place steeped in history is Cawdor Castle. Located 5 miles southwest of Nairn, this romantic 14th century highland castle set amongst beautiful Highland scenery offers an unforgettable experience. Here you can explore the castle’s magnificent interior, its impressive drawing room, its wall decorated with portraits of the Campbell family, the tapestry bedroom, the dining room, and kitchen. Other than the castle itself, visitors can also explore three beautiful gardens and even a 9-hole golf course.

The monuments and ruins of Clava Cairns are a well-preserved cemetery complex dating back to the bronze age. This historic site of passage graves, ring cairns, kerb cairns and standing stones makes a beautiful setting worth visiting. Due to it being an exceptionally well-preserved prehistoric site, Clava Cairns is a great example of the ancient history of the Scottish Highlands. Inverness IV2 5EU

Speyside, its Malt Whisky Trail and its many whisky distilleries Close by to Firthside House, Speyside is home to the world’s largest concentration of Scotch malt whisky distilleries. Along the banks of the River Spey, from the Cairngorm Mountains in the south to the Moray coast in the north, you can experience the richness and vibrancy of malt whisky country. Along the trail, you can visit distilleries ranging from global brands to boutique producers. Here, you will encounter men and women who are guardians of the ancient craft of whisky distilling, from whom you can gain insight into Scotland’s national drink. To mention a few…. The Macallan Distillery, Easter Elchies, Craigellachie AB38 9RX The Glenfiddich Distillery, Dufftown, Keith, AB55 4DH The Glenlivet Distillery, Ballindalloch, AB37 9DB The Aberlour Distillery, Aberlour, AB38 9PJ …and for a broad selection of single malts as well as delicatessen, visit Gordon & McPhail’s high street store in Elgin. Gordon & McPhail, 121 High Street, Elgin, IV30 1EA

If you are looking for tranquillity, nature, and breath-taking scenery, just take a short drive from Firthside House where you are instantly embraced by the beautiful and iconic Scottish Highlands. Stretching across the northern part of Scotland, this vast and majestic part of the British Isles offers stunning scenery, blissful seclusion amid lochs and mountains. Go for hikes, explore fascinating locations, or just immerse yourself in nature - The Highlands will not disappoint.

To experience the art of traditional weaving and knitting, head over to Johnstons of Elgin - a woollens and cashmere clothing manufacturer located a 40min drive from Firthside House. Here you can experience the exceptional craftsmanship and design of their finest knitwear. Johnstons of Elgin is also renowned for having the only vertical weaving-mill in Scotland. They offer an immersive mill experience which allows guests to observe the craftsmanship and explore the company’s history.