Description
Our day begins with a drive to Nairn, thirteen miles east of Inverness, for our visit to Cawdor Castle, romantically linked by Shakespeare with Macbeth. This fairy-tale castle, built as a private fortress by the Thane of Cawdor is a splendid house which has remained in the Cawdor family since the late 14th century. The additions to the house, built mainly in the 17th century, were all designed in the Scottish vernacular style, with slated roofs over walls and crow-stepped gables of mellow local stone. On arrival, we will be greeted and lead toward the Castle by a Scottish Piper in full kilted regalia. After a break for coffee and home-made shortbread in the Castle Tea rooms, we will be welcomed into the Castle for a private guided tour which lasts approximately 50 minutes.
Following the tour of the castle, we will then enjoy a privately guided tour of the Castle Gardens with the Head Gardener. Cawdor is fortunate to have three gardens. The Walled Garden is the oldest and dates from c.1600 and later became a kitchen garden. The Flower Garden was laid out some 100 years later and was originally designed for enjoyment in late summer and autumn. However this garden's season has been extended to give visitors pleasure from early spring, with bulbs, bedding plants, herbaceous borders, ornamental trees and shrubs all providing delight. The Wild Garden is the youngest, being planted in the 1960's and lies between the Castle and the stream of the Cawdor Burn. After our visit it will be time for our wonderful luncheon.
We’ll dine on a delicious multi-course repast using all local ingredients, complimented by wine at the Cawdor Tavern. A wonderful pub full of atmosphere and great charm, the pub boasts beautiful oak panelling from the Castle, gifted by Lord Cawdor. After lunch, we will return to the pier.
Suggested Attire/Walking Notes: Casual with comfortable shoes. There are some steps to get into the castle. The gardens and coffee shop are both on one level.