Best known for its championship golf course, this charming market town also has lovely beaches and fascinating historic attractions.
Nicknamed the St. Andrews of the North for its superb golf course, Dornoch is a quaint town with gorgeous weather and beautiful natural scenery. Tee off at the town’s highly rated golf course and check out the stained-glass windows in its cathedral. Walk on one of the nearby sandy beaches and learn about the town’s history at its informative museum.
Play a round at Dornoch’s famous Royal Dornoch Golf Club on the shores of Dornoch Firth. Book a tee time in advance at one of the world’s best championship golf courses.
Find the Witch’s Stone, not far from the golf course. Dating back to the 18th century, this stone marks the place where Janet Horne, the last woman to be executed for witchcraft in Scotland, was burned in 1727.
Check out the iconic 13th-century Dornoch CathedralOpens in a new window. Admire the cathedral’s original stonework, as well as the gargoyles decorating its eaves. Inside, see several modern stained-glass windows donated in memory of Scottish-American industrialist Andrew Carnegie.
Walk into the cathedral’s cemetery to see the Plaiden Ell, marking where the town’s historic market was once held. A medieval method for measuring cloth, the Ell is a carved stone similar to a tombstone.
Dornoch has an especially sunny climate as a result of its sheltered location. Take advantage of the pleasant weather by enjoying a walk around the town’s woodlands, hills or nearby beaches.
Follow the trail leading from the town center to Dornoch Point. This 4-mile (6-kilometer) trail traverses several scenic sand dunes, offering picturesque viewpoints across the firth. Look for seals, seabirds and other wildlife.
Take the kids to the HistoryLinks Museum, dedicated to the town’s past. Learn about the construction of the cathedral, the development of the golf course and the town’s ancient clan wars.
Dornoch is located on the north shore of Dornoch Firth, 9 miles (15 kilometers) north of Tain. Reach the area by bus from InvernessOpens in a new window. Discover the many enchanting attractions of this historic east coast town.
