Tain: The True Highland Experience

When we think of the Scottish Highlands, Inverness and Loch Ness often spring to the minds of many, but why not travel that little further afield. For example, the town of Tain is just 46 miles north of Inverness and is certainly a town that you should visit.

Located in a prime location along the hugely popular North Coast 500, Tain is a small town, though its significance is great. It is Scotland's oldest Royal Burgh, a historic place of sanctuary to the wife and daughter of Robert the Bruce, and in 1966 the Queen Mother opened the town's Rose Gardens. Aside from its historical and religious significance, the town is home to a variety of visitor attractions including St Duthus collegiate church, a world-famous Whisky distillery, and not to forget the many courses for the golf lover. 

It's your Round

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Play a spot of golf at Tain Golf Club, a real gem of a place in beautiful surrounds. The course was designed by Tom Morris and overlooks the Dornoch Firth, offering visitors one of the best views in the highlands. The golf course is very sheltered which allows the opportunity to play for most of the year. But even better than that, once you've finished your game, head to Old Tom's Bar & Restaurant for a refreshment or two.  If you're not a golfer but enjoy a scenic stroll, then you’re in luck. The countryside surrounding Tain has many paths and trails for you to follow. These trails are suited to all ages and abilities so you are sure to find one that takes your fancy.  Tain Hill is an easy walk with picnic areas and its 190 feet climb boasts a great view of Pulpit Rock, the Dornoch Firth and Tarbat Ness. You can find more information on walks in Tain see here – Walks in Tain.

A Touch of Craft

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Tain Pottery is now established as one of the largest Scottish ceramic manufacturers, offering their traditional craft technique and skill in all their products. The stoneware has been developed by a team of artisans including two expert potters who, between them, have more than 50 years experience creating craft ceramics. Inspiration is all around and Tain pottery flourishes in bringing ‘your ideas to life’ – as their motto proudly states. For more information on visiting Tain Pottery or even placing an order an online, check out their website Tain Pottery

The World on a Plate

It’s been a long but fun-filled day exploring the Scottish Highlands giving you a hearty appetite, and Tain has some fantastic restaurants!  As the town is situated on the south shore of Dornoch Firth, fresh seafood is always on the menu.  At  Greens Market Restaurant you can enjoy everything from teas, coffee, and snacks, to lunches and evening meals. The restaurant is bright and stylish with three large windows to let in plenty of natural light. If you want a more eclectic range, we must also recommend Top Tain Curry Club. This restaurant offers a wide range of Indian cuisine, all cooked with the finest of ingredients by the chefs. It’s loved by locals and is even available for parties, with a takeaway option too if you want to eat in the comfort of your loungewear.  If you have a sweet tooth, then stop off at Harry Gow Bakery, serving delectable strawberry tarts, and mouth-watering sausage rolls for the savoury lover, making it the perfect stop for an afternoon treat!

Whisky Galore 

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What is Scotland without Whisky? Probably a question without a solid answer. Scotland's association with Whisky is known across the globe and it’s clear why. In Scotland, there are over 90 distilleries across and whisky accounts for over 85% of Scotland’s food and drink industry.  Tain's local distillery is that of Glenmorangie. In 1843, William Matheson founded the Glenmorangie Distillery in the Scottish Highlands.  He was inspired by the peaceful surrounds on the banks of the Dornoch Firth.  To this day the award-winning single malt is still produced in the same way it was in the very beginning. Tasting the smooth spirit will forever take you back to your fond memories of the Scottish Highlands, no matter where you are. To discover more about this fine spirit, or the tasting masterclasses and distilleries tours on offer, see Glenmorangie Experiences.

The Tain's of Time 

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Despite the towns historical significance it is not as well known as it deserves. However, if you want to find out much more about this town then pay a visit to the Tain Museum. The museum is home to a myriad of objects, photographs, and archives that show both local and national significance. The museum acts as a wonderful welcome for those with the surname, Ross. In fact many members of the Ross clan from all over the world flock here for the Ross Clan Gathering.  
Though the Clan system has not been in place for centuries, many Scots and individuals with a Scottish heritage often wish to discover more about their heritage and origins. Have your own Outlander experience through time in the Scottish Highlands with Tain museum.

Put your Feet Up

Wanting to visit Tain for longer than a day? Then we’ve got the perfect place for you. Mara Cottage is our newest property and an excellent place to stay to explore the Scottish Highlands. The property is a traditional fishing cottage which has been tastefully modernised, whilst keeping the original character of the building intact. With a cosy log burning stove, home entertainment system and bright bedrooms with beautiful views, you'll feel right at home. 

Not to forget this property is only a street away from the beach, giving so many exploration options in the Highlands that you'll never want to leave!