History of Grantown-on-Spey, in the Scottish Highlands
The town was not initially built in this location but has its origins at Cromdale (dating back a thousand years), two miles east of Grantown-on-Spey. One factor of its present, planned location was the fact that Ballo Castle was built about a mile to the North. This was inherited by the Grant family and it eventually became known as Castle Grant. In 1765 Sir James Grant had it rebuilt as a mansion – on rather grand lines. The second factor was that Sir James was an ambitious and obviously farseeing man. He was aware of the new industries arising in the area and as a result of this he re-built Grantown-on-Spey, in 1766, more as a service centre for the surrounding areas than a business centre. He also needed to relocate his tenants due to the change of agricultural methods on his estates.
This is a gracious, clean, well laid out town with a fine sense of well-being to it. It was said to be much recommended by Victorian doctors, for its efficacious air. Queen Victoria was certainly an eager visitor. However, with the closure of the railway came the lack of summer visitors to their holiday homes, necessitating the change of these into hotels and guesthouses. There is an obvious feeling of pride by the inhabitants since the houses, built almost entirely of granite, and streets are well cared for and orderly. It is indeed a town that welcomes one and invites one to wander its streets, browse its shops and enjoy the beauty and tranquillity of its surrounding rivers and countryside. Bird watching, fishing, walking, climbing and/or golf – to mention but a few of the activities – are available, if so desired. Should you care to ‘stay over’ there is a wealth of comfortable accommodation from which to choose, with first class food (local wherever possible), and an abundance of ‘wee drams’ to sample.
Although the A95 bypasses Grantown-on-Spey on the south side of the Spey, it is important to note that the hostel accommodation has been built on this south side which, more importantly, is now brushed by the Speyside Way long distance walk. Therefore people who do not wish to visit whilst walking can still ‘sleep over’.
Also to the south of Grantown-on-Spey is to be found the attractive village of Nethy Bridge. Some wonderful pottery is produced here – and to order!
To the south west of Grantown-on-Spey is located the wonderful Speyside Heather Garden and Visitor Centre. They are purported to have in excess of 300 different types of heather. This is not an easy plant to grow, unless you have the right conditions. However, there is plenty of advice on hand if you wish to take some heathers home. A visit to their tearooms is a ‘must’ for their Clootie Dumplings are not to be missed! Served with hot jam and cream they are every bit as good as the English ‘cream tea’. Heather honey is heavenly too!
A visit to the Revack Estate is highly recommended, as there is plenty of interest, especially if you have children with you. There is an adventure playground and you can wander quite freely, viewing birds and butterflies, trees and also a display of exotic orchids. There is also a gift shop, restaurant and ‘café’ so all needs are catered for.
Upon a point of personal interest, the town is very proud of its locally based photographer, whose images have been used on four of the six postage stamps, for the Royal Mail first issue of “A British Journey”.
Taking all in all – not a town or an experience to be missed.
