Golf & Leisure
On the north side of the Dornoch Firth, on the east coast that runs from the Moray Firth up onto Sutherland, Dornoch enjoys the status of a well-to-do holiday resort. It is blessed with a particularly sunny climate (in Scottish terms!) thanks to its sheltered position, and has miles of sandy beaches to match. The extensive sand dunes in the area are perfect for links golf, and the Royal Dornoch championship course being ranked amongst the very best in the world by those in the know.
The coast teams with wildlife, such as seals, and a sizeable population of both breeding and wintering birds. Dating from the 12th century, the town is steeped in history.
The impressive cathedral was founded in 1224, and though the Mackay clan sacked it in 1570, it was restored by the Countess of Sutherland in 1835, and again in the 20th century.
The famous Scots philanthropist Andrew Carnegie paid for some of the stained-glass windows. Other buildings of note are the 16th century Bishops Palace and the Old Town Jail. The Historylinks Museum chronicles the history of the town.The town is also reputedly where the last witch in Scotland was burnt, in 1722 - a fact commemorated by the Witch's Stone.
The next few pages give more details of the range of attractions, castles, beaches in and around the Dornoch Firth and Sutherland.
We hope that our guide of things to do, places to see and golf courses to play is of some use to you in planning your visit to The Royal Golf Hotel in Dornoch.
Royal Golf Hotel Dornoch
