Dingwall Field Club visits Ballindalloch Castle during latest outing
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BALLINDALLOCH Castle was the destination when Dingwall Field Club set off on its most recent outing.
Eighteen members of the club set off on July 21 to visit the castle and gardens, which have been the family home of the Macpherson-Grants for 24 generations.
The estate is situated by the River Avon, close to where it joins the River Spey.
“On leaving the coach we walked through a laburnum pergola, which must be magnificent when the trees are in bloom,” said a spokesman. “The castle was built in the mid-16th century and has been enlarged by successive generations, resulting in a fairy tale exterior.
“There is a guard tower reached by a stone staircase and a dungeon but the rest of the rooms are elegant and comfortable with corridors lined by 17th-century Spanish paintings. There are many interesting collections ranging from fine china and glass to miniature silver pin cushions.
“The gardens were delightful with many attractions. There was an interesting rock garden, a walled garden which contained a magnificent rose collection and a splendid herbaceous border.
“In the grounds there was a grass labyrinth, a children’s play area and a pleasant walk along the river. They are also home to the oldest herd of Aberdeen Angus cattle.
“On the way home we stopped at Craigellachie to view the cast iron bridge built by Thomas Telford between 1812-14.
“The day ended with a meal in Elgin, an altogether delightful day out.”
Transport was via a “very comfortable” mini-bus supplied by McNeil Coaches.
