Dornoch Castle

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Dornoch Castle

Sutherland

Dornoch Castle.jpg
Dornoch Castle
Location
Grid reference: NH79758961
Location: 57°52’47"N, 4°1’46"W
History
Information

Dornoch Castle is situated opposite Dornoch Cathedral in Dornoch, the county town of Sutherland, a little over 40 miles north of Inverness.

As of 2021, the castle was operated as a family-run hotel with 24 rooms.[1]

History

Dornoch Castle was built around 1500 as the home of the Bishops of Caithness.[2] Bishop Robert Stewart gifted the castle to John Gordon, 11th Earl of Sutherland in 1557.[2] In 1570 the castle was set alight in a feud between the McKays and Murrays. The rebuilding which followed included the addition of the upper part of the tower.[2] The castle decayed during the 18th century, but was restored in 1813–1814 to serve as a school and jail. In 1859-60 it became a court house, and was made the headquarters of the Sheriff of Sutherland with extensive remodelling by William Fowler.[3]

Further alterations were made around 1880, including the heightening of the south-west block, and the addition of a three-storey east tower.[2] Following the restoration the castle became a hunting lodge for visiting sportsmen. In 1947 it became a hotel. The Dornoch Castle Hotel has 24 rooms, including suites, and garden rooms, which were built in the 1970s. In addition, there are several personalized rooms and a restaurant. The castle is a category B listed building.[2]

The building passed into private hands in 1922, and became a hotel in 1947. It is now the Dornoch Castle Hotel.[4]

Outside links

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References