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Castles In The Highlands |
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Cawdor Castle |
6
miles south-west of Nairn, off B9090 Home of the Thanes of Cawdor, first
constructed in the 14th century. The Thanes of Cawdor were active in Scottish politics
throughout the centuries, and the castle has had a violent history They have lived the
castle for 600 years and the buildings house a treasury of family history. Visitors can
explore the tower and later buildings and there is an impressive kitchen. more
information  |
Eilean Donan Castle |
8
miles east of Kyle of Lochalsh, off A87 Standing where three
lochs join, in 1220 Alexander II built a fortress on the island against
Viking raiders. The Macrea family became hereditary constables of the
island on behalf of the earls of Seaforth. It's colourful history includes
gory legends, but it was the family's loyalty to the Jacobite's that
led to downfall of the castle. It remained a ruin until 1912
when Colonel John Macrea restored his ancestral home, and it was
rebuilt. The interior of the castle is in the style of a Scottish laird
with collections of Highland relics, pistols and powder horns. more
information
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Urquhart Castle |
16
miles south-west of Inverness, on A82 On the shores of Loch
Ness it was built in the 13th century. It had a turbulent and bloody
history, changing hands often in the conflict between England and Scotland.
In 1545 the Macdonald clan besieged and plundered the castle and
neighbouring farms, and in 1692 the castle was blown up by government
supporters to prevent it falling into Jacobite hands. Now the ruined
castle is a romantic landmark on the shores of the loch. more
information
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