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History, Heritage and Archaeology

Ring of Brodgar, Orkney Isles (Credit: Airborne Lens)
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The dramatic sweep of history merges with the landscape across the Highlands and Islands. It is easy to travel back through time here, journeying from battlefields to brochs, castles to churches.

From the Neolithic pre-history of the Highlands and Islands through the Picts and Vikings to the Clearances and the impact of two World Wars, this region resonates with stories that never fail to capture the imagination. From long Highland glens to small island villages, there is a real sense of how history, and its many colourful characters, both good and bad, have shaped communities past and present – and how those influences still echo down through the years today. 

EXPLORE THE SPIRIT OF HISTORY IN THE HIGHLANDS AND ISLANDS

Kilmartin Glen, Argyll and the Isles (Credit: Airborne Lens)
Scapa Flow, Orkney Isles (Credit: Airborne Lens)
Bealach Na Bà, Wester Ross (Credit: Airborne Lens)
Brodie Castle, Moray (Credit: VisitScotland/Paul Tomkins)
Italian Chapel, Orkney (Credit: Airborne Lens)
Iona Abbey approach from Mull (Credit: Airborne Lens)
Celtic Cross at Crinan, Argyll and the Isles (Credit: Airborne Lens)
Lerwick, Shetland Isles (Credit: Airborne Lens)

Itineraries

Arran Through the Ages

Journey through time and discover the rich history of the Isle of Arran.

Beyond Extraordinary

Follow in the footsteps of 19th and 20th century Orkney pioneers.

Discovering 'Arran Water'

Circumnavigate Arran while exploring the history of illicit distilling and whisky smuggling in this illustrated trail from the COAST project.

Historic Icons of Nairn

Take in the awe-inspiring sights of Nairn and their incredible stories.

Historylinks Heritage Trail

Step back in time and explore dazzling Dornoch through the ages.

Pictish stones depicts beast with long snout, curled ears and hooked tail. Inscribed with knot designs.
In Search of the Picts

Dive into the fascinating history of the Picts in the South East Highlands.

The Cawdor Labyrinth is located at Cawdor Castle which features a sculpture of a Minotaur which stands proudly in the centre of the maze
On the Trail of Highlands Literature

Explore places in Inverness, Moray and Nairn that have been a pool of inspiration for writers.

Stories Etched in Stone

Experience thousands of years of stories etched in stone.

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Locations

Allt Nan Corp Discover more information on the site of the curious custom of 'corp creadha' Add Allt Nan Corp to an itinerary
Annat Old Cemetery Visit a site of local historic significance in the heart of Annat. Add Annat Old Cemetery to an itinerary
Applecross Heritage Centre The Centre contains displays, artefacts and records to interest locals and visitors. Add Applecross Heritage Centre to an itinerary
Brodick Bay Enjoy beautiful mountain scenery in the heart of historic Arran Add Brodick Bay to an itinerary
Brodick Castle, Garden and Country Park Wander through thousands of years of history at Brodick Castle, Gardens and Country Park. Add Brodick Castle, Garden and Country Park to an itinerary
Brodie Castle and Estate Explore the historic seat of the Brodie clan in the heart of the stunning Moray countryside. Add Brodie Castle and Estate to an itinerary
Brora Heritage Centre Discover the unique heritage of this Brora and take part in local events. Add Brora Heritage Centre to an itinerary
Circle of standing stones in a grassy field.
Calanais Standing Stones Walk amongst giants of Scotland’s prehistory. Add Calanais Standing Stones to an itinerary
Castle Stalker
Castle Stalker Explore thousands of years of stories in every step. Add Castle Stalker to an itinerary
Castlehill Heritage Centre Bringing the story of the surrounding area to life from geology to Vikings to modern military operations. Add Castlehill Heritage Centre to an itinerary
The Intricrate Stone Carvings Of The Campbell Of Cawdor Crest On An Exterior Wall, Cawdor Castle
Cawdor Castle and Gardens Discover the fascinating history of the historic seat of the Thanes of Cawdor. Add Cawdor Castle and Gardens to an itinerary
Centre of Scotland Stone Discover the myths and mysteries surrounding the Centre of Scotland stone. Add Centre of Scotland Stone to an itinerary
A weathered light brown stone in a field of grass. The stone is covered in engravings which are eroded.
Cholera Stone at Gallows Hill Learn more about Dornoch in the 19th century. Add Cholera Stone at Gallows Hill to an itinerary
Clach an Tiompain Discover an incredible Pictish symbol stone at the centre of a Brahan Seer prophecy. Add Clach an Tiompain to an itinerary
Clach Shomairle Make a wish and discover a community custom in the heart of Glen Nevis Add Clach Shomairle to an itinerary
Clan Macpherson Museum Filled with objects and artefacts of importance to the Highlands, discover the story of Clan Macpherson and much more. Add Clan Macpherson Museum to an itinerary
Craig Phadrig Visit the site of an immense Pictish hillfort once home to a King Bridei I. Add Craig Phadrig to an itinerary
Cromarty Courthouse Museum Within this elegant eighteenth century Courthouse, come face to face with the tough Highland justice of the time, visit a prisoner and take part in a trial. Add Cromarty Courthouse Museum to an itinerary
The Jacobite Cairn at Culloden Battlefield at sunset
Culloden Battlefield and Visitor Centre Discover the tragic and emotive history behind the infamous 1746 Battle of Culloden Moor. Add Culloden Battlefield and Visitor Centre to an itinerary
Dingwall Museum Learn about Dingwall's families, heritage and history. Add Dingwall Museum to an itinerary
Cathedral structure is the focal point of the image with spire and small cemetery.
Dornoch Cathedral Explore the history of the most northerly cathedral on the Scottish mainland Add Dornoch Cathedral to an itinerary
A stone pillar with an interpretation board stands on the side of a road. In the background, two brown brick buildings with grey roofs line the road. A green fence stands in front of these buildings.
Dornoch High Street Discover Dornoch's fascinating history on every corner Add Dornoch High Street to an itinerary
A green signpost pointing towards Dornoch. Rows of green shrubs are below the sign. In the distance a golf course, with players making their way around the course, is visible.
Dornoch Links Explore an icon of Dornoch's natural and cultural history. Add Dornoch Links to an itinerary
A large stone well stands as the focus of the image. A grey interpretation board is visible in the background, standing adjacent to a stone wall.
Dornoch Old Parish Manse Discover Dornoch in the 17th century Add Dornoch Old Parish Manse to an itinerary
A white building with a grey slate roof stands in the foreground. Three blue signs mark the buildings.
Dornoch Railway Station Transport yourself back in time and learn more about the Dornoch in the 20th century Add Dornoch Railway Station to an itinerary
A central road lined with cars. Light brown buildings line either side of the road.
Dornoch War Memorial Learn about the impact of war on Dornoch's communities. Add Dornoch War Memorial to an itinerary
Dùn Da-Lamh Discover jaw-dropping views and the fascinating Pictish history of the Cairngorms. Add Dùn Da-Lamh to an itinerary
Gairloch Museum Situated in a converted nuclear bunker, Gairloch Museum showcases the history, culture and natural heritage of this beautiful area. Add Gairloch Museum to an itinerary
A large grey stone pillar stands in grass next to a large stone wall. Above the pillar, a green sign with white lettering reads 'Gallow's Hill. Donald Mackay hanged here on 26th May 1738 for murdering a witch. His was the last execution at Dornoch'.
Gallows Hill Learn more about the dark history of Dornoch. Add Gallows Hill to an itinerary
Glencoe Folk Museum Glencoe Folk Museum holds an eclectic array of objects celebrating local heritage. Add Glencoe Folk Museum to an itinerary
Glenfinnan Station Museum Celebrating the life and work of earlier generations on the West Highland Line at this picturesque spot. Add Glenfinnan Station Museum to an itinerary
Brown building sits behind are trees and manicured pathways.
Grantown Museum Discover the history of Grantown at this experiential museum. Add Grantown Museum to an itinerary
The Long Cairn, Grey Cairns of Camster, Caithness sitting atop a grassy landscape under a blue sky strewn with clouds
Grey Cairns of Camster Stand amongst two of the oldest man-made structures in Scotland. Add Grey Cairns of Camster to an itinerary
Groam House Museum Discover the fascinating history and local heritage of Rosemarkie. Add Groam House Museum to an itinerary
View of four traditional structures at the Folk museum.
Highland Folk Museum Step back in time and experience Highland life in the 18th to the mid-20th centuries. Add Highland Folk Museum to an itinerary
Highland Museum of Childhood Set in an Old Victorian train station, the museum is a great day out for all the family. Add Highland Museum of Childhood to an itinerary
Hilton of Cadboll Stone Be inspired by an icon of Early Medieval Scottish history. Add Hilton of Cadboll Stone to an itinerary
Small brown building with blue doors and windows surrounded by signs for Historylinks Museum.
Historylinks Museum Showcasing the history and stories of Dornoch through the years through interactive displays. Add Historylinks Museum to an itinerary
Inverness Museum and Art Gallery Explore a range of artefacts from the fascinating history and heritage of the Highlands. Add Inverness Museum and Art Gallery to an itinerary
Isle of Arran Heritage Museum Explore the rich history and community heritage of the Isle of Arran. Add Isle of Arran Heritage Museum to an itinerary
John Ross Visitor Centre Discover an incredible story of faith, hope and love in the Easter Ross Peninsula and beyond. Add John Ross Visitor Centre to an itinerary
Keiss Castle Admire the striking ruins of one of Caithness' best-known castles. Add Keiss Castle to an itinerary
Kilmory Discover thousands of years of history in one village Add Kilmory to an itinerary
Kilmuir Explore the history and heritage of North West Skye. Add Kilmuir to an itinerary
Kilpatrick Dun Explore fascinatingly complex history of this multi-period archaeological site. Add Kilpatrick Dun to an itinerary
Kingscross Viking Fort Admire the site of a Viking fort at the stunning Kingscross Point, Arran. Add Kingscross Viking Fort to an itinerary
Knock Farril Explore one of the finest hillforts in the Highlands. Add Knock Farril to an itinerary
Kyle Station Museum Discover the fascinating story of Kyle Harbour, West Coast fishing and the Kyle Line – one of the world’s most scenic train journeys. Add Kyle Station Museum to an itinerary
A white house with a black door and grey roof stands at an angle in the centre of the image, adjacent to a narrow lane. Several other houses line this lane in the background of the image.
Littletown Learn more about the history and impact of the Sutherland Clearances. Add Littletown to an itinerary
Lochcranza Castle Discover a centre of medieval activity in the heart of northern Arran. Add Lochcranza Castle to an itinerary
Machrie Moor Standing Stones Discover a remarkable centre of Neolithic activity on the Isle of Arran. Add Machrie Moor Standing Stones to an itinerary
A large grey stone pillar stands on a stone base in the centre of the image. A stone wall stands in the background, with gravestones and trees visible over the wall.
Mercat Cross, Dornoch Pay a visit to the historic heart of Dornoch Add Mercat Cross, Dornoch to an itinerary
Museum of the Isles Experience the history of the Highlands and Islands through the epic story of Clan Donald, Scotland’s largest and most powerful clan. Add Museum of the Isles to an itinerary
The front facade of Nairn Museum with a large statue of Dr. Grigor on plinth. Large trees and a cherry blossom tree with pink flowers line the driveway up to the museum.
Nairn Museum Discover centuries of Nairn's local history. Add Nairn Museum to an itinerary
North Coast Visitor Centre Explore the history of the local area and discover what's on at this community hub in Thurso. Add North Coast Visitor Centre to an itinerary
An overhead view of Nybster Broch, Caithness, situated next to a cliff edge
Nybster Broch A centre for thousands of years of stories on the eastern seaboard of Caithness. Add Nybster Broch to an itinerary
Ord Hill Discover the remains of an Iron Age and Pictish fort set atop the scenic beauty of Ord Hill. Add Ord Hill to an itinerary
Orkney Wireless Museum Discover Orkney's rich history of wireless technology and innovation. Add Orkney Wireless Museum to an itinerary
Russian Arctic Convoy Museum Discover one of the most daring allied operations of World War 2. Add Russian Arctic Convoy Museum to an itinerary
Ruthven Barracks Explore the tumultuous history of the Highlands in the 18th century. Add Ruthven Barracks to an itinerary
Shetland Museum & Archives Discover Shetland's story with a world-class collection of over 3000 artefacts Add Shetland Museum & Archives to an itinerary
Shetland Textile Museum A must-see celebration of the people, craft and history of Shetland knitwear and textiles. Add Shetland Textile Museum to an itinerary
Sliddery Discover a village with outstanding natural and cultural heritage Add Sliddery to an itinerary
A large stone marker, with the words 'St. Michael's Well' engraved in black.
St. Michael's Well Visit the centre of tale of an act of defiance in Dornoch. Add St. Michael's Well to an itinerary
Strathnaver Museum Journey from Strathnaver’s mystical past, through the emergence of the Clan Mackay, to the tragedy of the Highland Clearances. Add Strathnaver Museum to an itinerary
The Sueno Stone, encased in protective glass, under a blue sky strewn with clouds
Sueno's Stone Be awe-inspired by this immense and complex Pictish monument. Add Sueno's Stone to an itinerary
Tain and District Museum Discover the stories of Tain and the surrounding area at this volunteer-run museum. Add Tain and District Museum to an itinerary
Tangwick Haa Museum Explore the fascinating history and heritage of Northmavine. Add Tangwick Haa Museum to an itinerary
Tarbat Discovery Centre Explore the fascinating story of the historic heart of the Easter Ross Peninsula. Add Tarbat Discovery Centre to an itinerary
A large light brown stone pillar stands in tall grass. A circular grey metal fence surrounds the stone pillar.
The Earl's Cross Explore a marker of Dornoch's fasinating medieval history. Add The Earl's Cross to an itinerary
The Haven The starting point of the journeys of hundreds of Orkneymen with the Hudson Bay Company. Add The Haven to an itinerary
The Highlanders' Museum Visit the Highlanders’ Museum and follow in the footsteps of the Highland soldier from just after the Battle of Culloden until the present day. Add The Highlanders' Museum to an itinerary
The Shandwick Stone Discover a masterpiece of Pictish art in the beautiful village of Shandwick. Add The Shandwick Stone to an itinerary
A grey stone with the year '1722' marked in white on its surface. Around the stone is a ring of small stones, both painted and natural, left in tribute.
The Witch's Stone Visit a tribute to Janet Horne, the last woman to be legally executed for witchcraft in the British Isles. Add The Witch's Stone to an itinerary
Contemporary building with dark grey roof and yellow sides the site of Timespan museum.
Timespan Heritage and Art Institution with local and planetary ambitions to use culture for social change. Add Timespan to an itinerary
Torr A’Chaisteal Dun Explore the site of an immense Iron Age fortified settlement in south-west Arran. Add Torr A’Chaisteal Dun to an itinerary
Ullapool Museum Housed in a listed building, discover the social history of Lochbroom through displays on crofting, fishing, the “klondykers” and more. Add Ullapool Museum to an itinerary
Unst Heritage Centre Uncover the unique history and heritage of Scotland's most northerly inhabited island. Add Unst Heritage Centre to an itinerary
West Highland Museum Discover the incredible history of the West Highlands. Add West Highland Museum to an itinerary
Wick Heritage Museum The Wick Heritage Centre houses a number of furnished rooms portraying past times. Add Wick Heritage Museum to an itinerary

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Be inspired

Our History
Experience the Captivating Appeal of Ancient Places
stone caves are set into the side of a mountain with a rocky beach below
Àite-falaich an Rìgh ann an Arainn (The King’s Arran Hideout)
What Lies Beneath
Discover a Story of Faith, Hope and Love
The ruins of a Scottish Iron Age stone building - a broch - stand on a grassy field under a cloudy sky. The sea and an outline of land can be seen in the distance behind the broch.
Brochs: Uniquely Scottish and Unusually Fascinating