Hilton of Embo, Dornoch, IV25

Located on the outskirts of Dornoch, this plot offers the buyer the opportunity to build a home to the standard that they require.

Early history

• The area around Dornoch has been settled since at least the early medieval period, with Pictish and later Norse influences.

• The name “Dornoch” is thought to come from Gaelic, possibly meaning “pebbly place.” Local legend also links the name to the hoof of a horse.

Ecclesiastical importance

• In the early 13th century, Bishop Gilbert de Moravia moved the seat of the bishopric of Caithness to Dornoch. Around 1224 he began building Dornoch Cathedral, much of it at his own expense. The cathedral was in use by 1239, and Gilbert was buried there in 1245.

• The cathedral suffered severe damage in 1570 during a clan feud, when it was burned and left roofless for many years. Some partial repairs were made in the 17th century, but a major restoration was carried out in the 1830s, funded by the Duchess of Sutherland.

• Other historic features

• The Bishop’s Palace (now Dornoch Castle Hotel) was the bishop’s residence and later adapted to other uses.

• In 1628, Dornoch was made a Royal Burgh by King Charles I.

• The town is known as the site of the last execution for witchcraft in Scotland. In 1722 (or 1727), Janet Horne was burned at the stake. A memorial known as the “Witch’s Stone” marks the spot.

• Later development

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  The arrival of the railway in 1902 helped open the town to visitors and tourism.

• Today, Dornoch retains its historic character, with the cathedral, castle, and heritage museum all preserving its past.

Royal Dornoch Golf Course

Origins of golf in Dornoch

• The earliest recorded reference to golf in Dornoch dates to 1616, when expenses were listed for clubs and balls.

• The formal Dornoch Golf Club was founded in 1877, initially with nine holes.

• Course design and expansion

• In 1886, Old Tom Morris extended the layout to 18 holes, shaping the Championship Course.

• During the Second World War, part of the course was taken over as an airfield, and after the war several new holes were created, giving the course much of its present character.

Royal status and reputation

• In 1906, King Edward VII granted the club its “Royal” title.

• Over the years, Royal Dornoch has become known as one of the finest links courses in the world, regularly ranking among the very best internationally.

Course characteristics

• The Championship Course is renowned for its natural links terrain, undulating fairways, gorse, and coastal views across the Dornoch Firth.

• The club also has a second 18-hole layout, the Struie Course, which offers a slightly different but complementary challenge.

Modern era

The course has continued to evolve, with selective changes to holes to respond to advances in the game while preserving its classic character.

• Royal Dornoch remains a pilgrimage destination for golfers worldwide.

Disclaimer

Whilst we make enquiries with the Seller to ensure the information provided is accurate, Yopa makes no representations or warranties of any kind with respect to the statements contained in the particulars which should not be relied upon as representations of fact. All representations contained in the particulars are based on details supplied by the Seller. Your Conveyancer is legally responsible for ensuring any purchase agreement fully protects your position. Please inform us if you become aware of any information being inaccurate.