Brahan Castle

Brahan Castle stands in Easter Ross, Highland Scotland, about 5.6 kilometres south-west of Dingwall. The Mackenzie clan, led by the Earls of Seaforth, once controlled the area from this stronghold. Built in 1611 by Colin Mackenzie, the first Earl of Seaforth, the castle became a centre of Mackenzie power. The estate later passed to General Wade during the 18th century as part of his efforts to control the Highlands. After changing hands several times, the castle was rebuilt in the 19th century as a grand country house. The castle’s history is marked by the prophecies of Kenneth Mackenzie, a labourer known as the Brahan Seer. The Mackenzies supported the Jacobite cause, taking part in uprisings in 1715, 1719 and 1745. The Siege of Brahan in 1715 and the estate’s later sale to Wade highlight its turbulent past. The castle was demolished in the 1950s, leaving only the north wall and the surviving stable block, now called Brahan House. Decorative stones and heraldic panels from the castle are preserved inside. Today, visitors find the remains of Brahan Castle near the site of the original building. A monument stands about 1.6 kilometres west, honouring Caroline Mackenzie, who died in 1823 after a riding accident. The stable block, now Brahan House, holds the castle’s decorative stones. The surrounding estate offers quiet walks and views of the Highland landscape. The site reflects the castle’s grand past and the Mackenzie clan’s influence.