HISTORIC
Castles, steam trains, kings, queens and legends blend history and folklore into lasting memories. The Cairngorms is the home to some of the countries most impressive castles and historic events.
HIGHLAND FOLK MUSEUM
A trip back in time. The Highland Folk Museum gives visitors a flavour of how people lived and worked in the Highlands from the 1700s up until the 1950s! With Displays of over 30 historical buildings and furnishing them for their time. Some buildings are scratch built while others moved from other locations. The site is a mile long and includes 1700s township featuring six houses at one end through to the 1930s working croft at the other end of the site. With a cafe, gift shop and a fantastic children’s playground, The Highland Folk Museum offers a great day out.
01540 673551 Visit website +
RUTHVEN BARRACKS
A visit to Ruthven Barracks, built by George II’s government in the early 1700s after the failed Jacobite uprising of 1715, is enjoyable and educational. The troops stationed at the barracks were to maintain law and order and enforce the disarming act of 1716, and the barracks saw combat action twice. A 300-strong Jacobite attack failed to take the barracks in 1745, but a more heavily-armed attack the next year forced the barracks’ surrender. The Jacobites rallied here after their defeat at Culloden before conceding.
01667 460232 Visit website +
STRATHSPEY STEAM RAILWAY
The Strathspey Railway invites you to climb aboard its trains and experience the beauty of steam train travel. Celebrating forty years of the return of steam travel through the Highlands of Scotland and with three train services, each steam operating daily, travelling through some of Scotland’s most beautiful scenery, sit back and relax. While aboard, you can treat yourself to light lunch on the 12.30 service and traditional afternoon tea on the 14.45 service. There is an excellent selection of Highland whisky or craft ales, and you can even treat yourself to your four-seat compartment in the first class carriage. All aboard!
01479 810725 Visit website +
BALLINDALLOCH CASTLE
Ballindalloch Castle, home of the Macpherson-Grants since the sixteenth century and today is one of the most excellent surviving examples of a classic Scottish baronial castle. Home to a family today, the castle regularly rings to sounds somewhat less usual in heritage properties. Located on the banks of the River Avon, a short distance from its junction with the River Spey, Ballindalloch Castle was completed in 1546. The tearoom, castle gift shop and stunning gardens make this an excellent visitor attraction for all ages.
01796 481207 Visit website +
DISCOVER THE WIDE VARIETY OF ATTRACTIONS IN THE CAIRNGORMS
The biggest problem you will have is what to choose to do in the Cairngorms. An abundance of places to visit, things to do and activities to try, await all the family.
From polar bear cubs and forest adventure parks to championship golf courses and whisky trails, The Cairngorms has something to suit all interests and ages. With winter mountain sports and summer bagging, it's the ideal location for outdoor adventure.