East Beach, Nairn

Nairn is the ideal place to stay for touring the Highlands with places like the beautiful island of Skye and the fishing port of Ullapool to the west. An hour’s drive takes you to the fairy-tale castle of Dunnrobin with stunning sea views and gardens.

Nairn has long been known as a seaside holiday resort having been popular since Victorian times. It has spectacular beaches that have achieved the highest European accolade for cleanliness – the blue flag.

Brodie Castle is located 4.5 miles west of Forres and 24 miles east of Inverness on the east coast of Scotland.

Having been badly damaged by fire in 1645, the castle was later rebuilt.

There's also a picnic area, tea room and gift shop, adventure playground with timber fort for the kids, woodland walks, gardens and a lake. If you have chance to visit during the Spring, the famous collection of daffodils will be in full bloom.

Cawdor Castle dates from the late 14th century and was built as a private fortress by the Thanes of Cawdor. The ancient medieval tower was built around the legendary holly-tree.

Nairn is close to the “Whisky Trail” with famous names such as Glenfiddich, Macallan, Glenfarclas, and Cardhu. Visitors are welcome at many distilleries where tours are provided along with a “wee dram”.

A vast site and one of the most outstanding artillery fortifications in Europe. It was planned in 1747 as a base for George II’s army and was completed in 1769.

Since then it has served as a barracks. It is virtually unaltered and presents a complete view of the defensive system of an 18th-century artillery fort.

The fort includes reconstruction of barrack rooms in different periods and the Seafield Collection - a display of muskets and pikes.
Cafe: The cafe is open daily all week during the summer. In winter, it opens from 10.00am to 2.30pm, Monday to Saturday only.

Nairn boasts two splendid golf courses, the Nairn Golf Club and the Nairn Dunbar Golf Course, which hosted the Walker Cup in 1999. Both have stunning views over the Moray Firth, so even if the golf is poor, the views will be good!

The old fishing harbour has been converted to a marina. From here , there are walks along the river and the beach gives you access to Culbin Forest. Dolphin boat trips from the harbour are also popular.

The best climbing, walking in Scotland is easily accessed from Nairn. Mountain ranges such as Torridon, Glen Shiel, Glen Affric, Cairngorm and the Grampians are within a short drive and offer magificent photographic opportunities. Glenmore Lodge just outside Aviemore provides a comprehensive range of courses in outdoor adventure sports.

Weekly ceilidhs offer a cultural insight into the Highlands' musical heritage. They are informal dances with local musicians and a good time is had by all.