15 Places Every Clan Sutherland Descendant Should Visit
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Dunrobin Castle: Dunrobin Castle in Golspie, Sutherland, is the historic seat of the Earls of Sutherland, who are the chiefs of Clan Sutherland. The castle has been the ancestral home of the clan for centuries, and it’s a significant symbol of the clan’s power and history.
Dornoch Castle: Located in Dornoch, Sutherland, this castle was held by the Earls of Sutherland in the 16th century. It has historical significance as a residence associated with the clan’s leaders and nobility. Today, it operates as a hotel, allowing visitors to experience the castle’s charm.
Skelbo Castle: Skelbo Castle, near Dornoch, Sutherland, was held by the Sutherlands of Skelbo. It’s known for its historical connections to the Sutherland clan and its role in the clan’s history. The castle is now in ruins but still retains its historical significance.
Forse Castle: Located near Dunbeath, Caithness, Forse Castle was the seat of the Sutherland of Forse branch of the clan. While not located in Sutherland itself, it’s associated with a branch of the Sutherland clan and has historical connections to the family.
Golspie Tower: Golspie Tower, in Golspie, Sutherland, is the site of a large tower held by the Earls of Sutherland. It has historical significance as a structure associated with the clan’s leadership and power.
Berriedale Castle: Though no longer in Sutherland, Berriedale Castle in Berriedale, near Dunbeath, Caithness, was originally held by the Cheynes in the 14th century but passed by marriage to the Sutherlands. It’s associated with a branch of the clan and has historical connections to the Sutherland family.
Skibo Castle: Located near Dornoch, Sutherland, Skibo Castle was remodeled for the Sutherlands in 1872. While it is not as old as some other castles associated with the clan, it’s an important site connected to later periods in the clan’s history and has become famous as an exclusive country club.
Aberscross Castle: Aberscross Castle, near Dornoch, Sutherland, was the seat of the Murrays or Morrays of Aberscross, a sept of the Clan Sutherland. While not a Sutherland castle, it is closely related to the clan and was charged with the defense of the shire, making it historically significant.
Duffus Castle: Duffus Castle, near Elgin, Moray, was the seat of the Sutherland of Duffus branch of the clan. It was originally built by Freskin, Lord of Strathbrock, from whom both the Sutherlands and Murrays are descended. Duffus passed from Freskin to the Cheynes but went to the Sutherlands by marriage in 1350.
Clyne: Located near Brora, Sutherland, the Clyne area was once held by the Sutherlands. While it may not have a specific castle associated with it, it’s part of the clan’s historical territory.
Langwell Castle: In Latheron, Caithness, this castle was once held by the Sutherlands but was later sold to the Sinclairs. It’s associated with the Sutherland clan’s history and the interactions with neighboring clans.
Helmsdale Castle: Located in Helmsdale, Sutherland, Helmsdale Castle has historical connections to the Sutherland clan. It is notable for its dramatic history, including a poisoning plot.
Cnoc Chaisteal: Near Dornoch, Sutherland, Cnoc Chaisteal is the site of a castle believed to have been built by the Sutherlands. It represents their historical presence and influence in the region.
Dornoch: The town of Dornoch in Sutherland has historical significance, including the cathedral and Dornoch Castle. The cathedral is associated with the Sutherlands and their place in the local community.
Kildonan: Kildonan is an area in Sutherland with historical connections to clan conflicts and the Sutherland clan’s history. It was a site of opposition to the clearances and is an important location for understanding the clan’s history.