Truly Highland

Culture and heritage are integral to the sense of belonging in the Cairngorms National Park, so much so that the first aim of the National Park is to “protect and enhance the natural and cultural heritage”.

We have chosen a few of our favourite cultural spots, traditions and experiences; we hope that these ideas inspire you to find your special places.

The Highland Games

Every summer the Cairngorms National Park comes alive with competition, celebration and blooming good fun!

Tossing the caber, putting the shot and throwing the hammer are thought to be rooted in the Highland battle grounds of history; there can be no more rousing sight than tartan clad Highland folk competing, dancing and celebrating the uniqueness of their heritage.

August is a bumper month with Newtonmore, Ballater, Abernethy & Lonach Highland Games all taking place.

Badenoch the Storylands

The area of Badenoch is full of stories and ancient sites to explore. Check out the Badenoch the Storylands app to delve into the songs and stories of Badenoch, told by the communities who live here.

The Badenoch Heritage Festival takes place Sunday 17th - Saturday 23rd September and is a great chance to discover local history.

Museums of the Highlands

The museums of the Highlands bring the history of the National Park to life… the tales of Highland battles become tangible, little kids and big kids alike are drawn into the tales of battles, clans and chieftains.

The Clan Macpherson were known as the guardians of the heart of the Scottish Highlands. They controlled and protected the routes trodden by soldiers, pilgrims and drovers through the wilds of Badenoch, the Cairngorms and Speyside. There is a museum dedicated to the Clan: The Clan Macpherson Museum in Newtonmore… check it out to understand this impressive clan and the Jacobite cause.

Grantown Museum is the place to stop by to find out about the Clan Grant. A clan who can trace their heritage as far back as the 9th century, had considerable influence over the north-east of Scotland and were strong supporters of William Wallace, their motto “Stand fast”. Grantown Museum is hosting a spectacular exhibition throughout August‘Landseer A Highland Romance’ is a must for any lover of art and the highlands.

Step back in time at The Highland Folk Museum and experience life in the Highlands from the 1700’s to the 1950’s. With over 35 historical buildings onsite you can explore how people in the Highlands lived, worked, went to school, and enjoyed their leisure time. As an open air museum, this is a brilliant place for kids, take in the history and enjoy lots of fresh air and freedom.

Strathspey Steam Train

Some things are almost guaranteed to make you smile… and the Strathspey Steam Train is one of those things. The noise, the smells and the atmosphere will transport you to a time and place where life was a bit more simple - a journey on this iconic train will fill your heart with joy. The pinks and purples carpet of the Speyside Way are breathtaking… and the refreshments on board are delicious!

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Distilleries

Can we really talk about the Highlands without a nod to our wonderful distilleries? These spectacular spaces are part of the landscape, & enjoying a wee dram is one of life's pleasures.

The Royal Lochnagar Distillery, nestled in Royal Deeside is spectacular. The backdrop of the Cairngorm Mountains, and Balmoral Castle just a mile away, make this a truly memorable place to learn more about the industry that has shaped the history of the Highlands & Royal Deeside (and to enjoy that wee dram!).

Dalwhinnie Distillery is another sweet spot to visit. This is the highest and coldest, working distillery in Scotland, with water from a loch at 2000 feet, Dalwhinnie whisky thrives on extreme conditions.

Castle and Historic Spots

The Cairngorms National Park is bursting with impressive places that have shaped history.

Some are vast and unmissable… Ruthven Barracks is an iconic landmark as you journey into Badenoch, you might also pay a visit to Castle Roy in Nethy Bridge.

The castles of the Cairngorms are spectacular - Blair Castle is breathtaking, as are Ballindalloch Castle and Balmoral Castle. Braemar Castle has just reopened following extensive renovation… and it is looking fabulous.