Delightful Dingwall is a charming and historic town in the Scottish Highlands that’s become a popular tourist spot in recent years due to its plethora of history, Highland culture, and foodie spots.
Sitting at the head of the Cromarty Firth in Ross-shire, Dingwall is situated between Inverness and Garve with a population of just 5,491. If Highland towns are anything to go by though, Dingwall packs a punch despite its small size.
Here are some of our favourite picks for Dingwall’s best things to do.
Explore Dingwall Museum
Located in the historic and beautiful Dingwall Town Hall building in Dingwall. Dingwall Museum showcases a great collection of historic artefacts and tells the story of Dingwall’s Viking legacy. As well as the Vikings, Dingwall Museum demonstrates the ages through the Highland clans, the agricultural heritage of the area, and what life has evolved to the modern-day Highlands.
Popular highlights in the museum include The Military Room which showcases Highland heroes, and the Local Smiddy – a reconstruction of the old Mill Street smiddy with tools of the trade donated by family members.
Dingwall Museum is run by local volunteers who are only too happy to proudly tell the stories of Dingwall’s fascinating past.
Be sure to stop by!
Visit Dingwall Castle
Dingwall Castle is prominent and was once a highly prized castle. Some people swear that this castle was the birthplace of MacBeth, but nowadays just a few ruins remain.
This castle has been passed around various prominent families over the ages from the Stewarts to the Munros. By the 18th century though the castle fell into disrepair and decayed over time. The legacy of Dingwall Castle can be felt across the wider area where the stone was used to build farmhouses at Fofferty and Millmain.
Take a stroll in Pefferside Park
For peace and tranquility head over to Pefferside Park. Pefferside Park is a stunning green space that’s situated along the banks of the River Peffery and offers stunning scenic views, open playing fields, and benches.
Within Pefferside Park is a play area with slides, mad spinning things and ground trampolines which makes it a perfect place to take the family and unwind when in Dingwall.
The Cromarty Firth
Dingwall is close to the Cromarty Firth which is a haven for wildlife. Head to several viewing points along the Firth where you can spot bottlenose dolphins and numerous seabirds swooping in for their morning catch. Several boat operators offer tours along the Firth such as EcoVentures and Dolphin Spirit (Inverness).
The Dingwall Heritage Trail & St Clements
The Dingwall Heritage Trail meanders along the town and explores key sites with prominent stops such as the old Dingwall Town House, Market Cross, and various buildings that date back to the 18th century. Plaques feature all along the route providing insights into tiny Dingwall’s rich history and making for a pleasant stroll throughout the year.
Along the trail, you’ll encounter St Clements. One of the oldest standing buildings in Dingwall, St Clements Church dates back to the 18th century (though earlier churches are thought to have existed on the same site). The stained-glass windows and architecture of the church are no doubt impressive.
What are some of your favourite things to do in Dingwall?
Let us know in the comments below!
