Castle Leod

14th Century Historic Scottish Tower House
'Leod' er'Liotr is a Viking name which can be traced to an uncle of the mighty Norseman Thorfinn.

The original building may have been a wooden fort on a natural mound, built by Pictish tribesmen and taken over at a later date by the Viking invaders
The stone structure you see today was in the medieval period, a fortified tower with the original entrance on the second floor, defended by a ladder that could be drawn up.
• The iron yetts, numerous arrow slits and gun loops remind us of its defensive purpose.
I605 the tower was re-modelled into a more comfortable residence by Sir Rory, Mackenzie (the formidable "Tutor of Kintail'and de-facto clan chief) for his new wife Dame Margaret Macleod of Lewis. Their marriage stone is placed above the front entrance. new wing' was added in the 19th century, (Vicarian era) and extended again in the first decade of the 20th century (Edwardian era).
Mackenzies' dramatic and colourful lives were inextricably linked with the great events of Scottish history and the characters that haped it, among them Mary Queen of Scots and Prince Charles Edward Stuart.
For 500 years Castle Leod has provided the backdrop for the Mackenzie family who live here to this day.

Recognised as the real-life inspiration for Outlander’s Castle Leoch, it continues to captivate with its rich history and timeless allure. Nestled near the Victorian spa town of Strathpeffer, Castle Leod stands majestically against the backdrop of Ben Wyvis, surrounded by impressive trees and thriving wildlife. With battles long past, we are now dedicated to its preservation for future generations to explore and enjoy.

The oldest tree is the Spanish Chestnut with its extraordinary, huge spiralling trunk. This was recently chosen as one of 70 trees officially dedicated to the late Queen Elizabeth II as part of her Platinum Jubilee. It was planted in 1553 by John Mackenzie of Killen to mark the confirmation of Saisin of Castle Leod by Mary Queen of Scots at Inverness. The tree has the oldest recorded planting date in Scotland.Læs mere