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The fishing village developed on the eastern coast of the northern Scottish Highlands. William the Lion established a stronghold here in 1179 and constructed the Ormond Castle. The estate eventually passed to other family members through inheritance or marriage. The de Moray family acquired the fortress in 1297 and held on to the estate until the last family member died, passing the estate on to the Earls of Ross, also known as the MacKenzie clan. The crown eventually acquired the land by forfeit in 1455. No one had need of the stone fortress and so abandoned, the castle stone became building material for other locations.
The actual Avoch settlement emerged in the 1700s. Some speculate survivors from the shipwreck of the Spanish Armada established the community. Other sources indicate the MacKenzie family owned the territory. A series of small settlements evolved into the fishing village of Avoch. During the 1700s, the local residents farmed, fished and processed flax. Other industries included hemp rope making, clothing and sail making.
The MacKenzies constructed a massive manor house, which became known as the Rosehaugh house. In 1864, local businessman James Fletcher purchased the estate. Having made a fortune in Liverpool, the entrepreneur enlarged the already sizable home, which featured an indoor swimming pool and game rooms.
In 1814, Thomas Telford combined the settlements and expanded the village by building streets from the harbour inward. The community grew as many displaced tenant families arrived from inland areas. By the middle of the century, Avoch had well over 100 fishermen and associated industries providing jobs for approximately 500 people. The prosperous fishing industry lasted until recent decades.
During the war years, many local fishermen relinquished their vessels and joined the Royal Navy. Women replaced them, continuing the fishing industry. Other women worked in munitions factories or tended to wounded soldiers.
Activities and Attractions
Now the harbour mainly docks pleasure vessels of varying sizes. Guests might embark on a cruise, experiencing the Highland coast at sea. The area has miles of paved paths and trails travelling along the coast offering fantastic water views and the opportunity of observing marine life. Chanonry Point is a noteworthy location for dolphin watching.
For a bit of historical native culture, visitors venture to the site of the ancient Clootie Well. Some believe the well existed as early as 600 AD. Many journeyed to the well originally to ward off evil. Pilgrims left mementos in hopes of appeasing spirits. After Christianity entered the picture, many journeyed to the well, praying for healing or other answered prayers. The tradition of leaving a small material gift continued throughout the centuries.
Guests learn about law and order of the 1700s when visiting the Cromarty Courthouse Museum. Life like figures and audio presentations depict historical trials. Learn about commonly committed crimes and the outrageous punishments enacted on the guilty. The facility also provides a look at the history of the community.
Individuals interested in exploring churches must pay a visit to the Cromarty East Church. Constructed sometime during the 1500s, the facility later underwent improvements during the 18th and 19th centuries. Inside the church visitors see relics that include a 1400s gravestone and furnishings created in the 1700s. The courtyard features grave markers from later periods in history.
Journey to Rosemarkie and visit the 18th century Groam House. Once a home for the Groam family, the two-story building now houses Pictish history. These people arrived in the area over 1,600 years ago, establishing settlements and farms. Explore the facility’s amazing collection of authentic carved Pict standing stones, some dated to the 8th century. Learn who these people were and what they contributed to the Celtic culture. Hear how they lived and who were the culture’s natural enemies. The facility also provides photographs and directions to other historic stones located in the area.
Places to Stay and Dining
The Highland coast is a popular destination for hotels. Some historic, constructed in the 1700s, and other designed more recently. Regardless of location and age, facilities offer amazing views of the waterways and surrounding areas.
The Anderson Restaurant offers traditional Scottish meals prepared with a touch of International flavour. Enjoy American styled hamburgers with a choice of varied toppings. Have New Orleans style seafood gumbo or enjoy pork steak with a Tuscan flair, wrapped in bacon and served with a creamy sage sauce and parmesan mashed potatoes.
Accommodation in Avoch
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