Ardross Castle is a splendid 19th-century castle, designed in the picturesque Scottish Baronial style. It is nestled amidst stunning formal gardens and sprawling across more than 100 acres of lush parkland along the banks of the River Alness. Situated just north of Inverness, Ardross Castle offers a breathtaking retreat within the captivating landscapes of the Scottish Highlands.
Ardross Castle serves as a breathtaking venue for hosting weddings and events, promising to enchant guests with its majestic ambiance. The castle and its picturesque grounds also offer an enticing setting for film and television productions. Recently, Ardross Castle has served as a filming location for “The Traitors” TV series, spanning both UK and US versions, adding to its allure as a versatile and captivating backdrop for cinematic storytelling.
The estate, situated in Ross-shire, offers exclusive hire for both corporate gatherings and private events. It’s important to note that the Castle does not operate as a hotel and does not rent out individual rooms.
Sir Alexander Matheson (1805-86), born in Attadale, Ross-shire, was the nephew of James Matheson, a key figure in the founding of Matheson & Co. The company traded in tea and opium and operated as a merchant bank, establishing branches in India and China.
Having accumulated significant wealth from his prosperous business ventures, Sir Alexander Matheson returned to Scotland in 1839. He invested in the purchase of Ardross, acquiring approximately 60,000 acres of land for £90,000. With a vision to develop the estate, Sir Alexander aimed to attract tenants for agricultural tenancies.
To oversee the estate’s development, Sir Alexander enlisted the expertise of William MacKenzie, an engineer who served as factor. Together, they worked to enhance Ardross, transforming it into a thriving agricultural hub.
Matheson meticulously designed extensive pleasure grounds spanning approximately 700 acres, with the scenic Alness River meandering through their heart. The network of paths winding through these grounds stretches over 14 miles, varying in width from 5 to 6 feet. Each path was meticulously constructed, featuring a foundation of stones and a finely laid gravel surface.
The walks along the Alness River and Tollie Burn not only provided serene strolls but also offered access to fishing spots on both riverbanks. These paths boasted picturesque views, adorned with charming pools and cascading waterfalls.
To the west of the Castle, Matheson cultivated vibrant flower gardens, arranged alongside a broad walkway. These gardens showcased stunning displays of ribbon bedding, adorning the face of a 300-foot-long embankment.
On the eastern side of the Castle, expansive shrubberies and lush lawns stretched out, featuring an elegant oval pond and fountain, enclosed by ornate iron railings.
