Castles of Clan MacRae

Eilean Donan Castle
Eilean Donan Castle, near Dornie in Wester Ross, is the most iconic castle associated with Clan MacRae. Though originally a Mackenzie stronghold, the MacRaes served as its hereditary constables from the early 16th century. The castle was destroyed in 1719 during a Jacobite uprising and remained in ruins until it was rebuilt in the early 20th century by Lieutenant Colonel John MacRae-Gilstrap. Today, the restored castle stands on a tidal island at the meeting of three sea lochs and is one of Scotland’s most photographed sites. It remains a symbol of Clan MacRae’s heritage and loyalty to the Mackenzies.

Inverinate House
Inverinate House, on the north shore of Loch Duich, became the seat of the MacRaes of Inverinate in the mid-16th century. Granted to Duncan MacRae by the Earl of Seaforth for loyal service, the estate remained in the family for generations. The original laird’s house was a Georgian-style manor rather than a fortified tower. Although the house itself is no longer standing in its original form, the estate is still associated with MacRae lineage. It represents the clan’s shift from medieval warfare to landed gentry status.

Ardintoul House
Ardintoul House, on Loch Alsh, was built by the MacRaes after the destruction of Eilean Donan Castle in 1719. It served as a new residence for the family and a sign of their continued importance in the region. The house was part of the post-Jacobite transition from defensive castles to more modern estate homes. It remained in clan hands for generations before being lost to fire in 2012. The site continues to be linked with Clan MacRae’s heritage in Kintail.

Conchra House
Conchra House, near Ardelve and opposite Eilean Donan, was the home of the MacRaes of Conchra, a cadet branch of the clan. Built in the 18th century, it was a Georgian manor rather than a traditional tower house. In the early 1900s, Colonel MacRae-Gilstrap used the house while restoring Eilean Donan Castle. The property has since been converted into a guesthouse. It reflects the MacRae presence and leadership in the Lochalsh area.

Castles Loosely Associated with Clan MacRae

Strome Castle
Strome Castle, on the north shore of Loch Carron, was originally held by the MacDonalds of Glengarry. In 1602, the MacRaes, fighting alongside the Mackenzies, helped lay siege to the castle. One MacRae prisoner reportedly sabotaged the MacDonalds’ powder supply from inside, enabling the Mackenzies to capture and destroy the fortress. Though never held by the MacRaes, their role in the siege became part of clan legend. The castle remains a ruin overlooking the sea.

Brahan Castle
Brahan Castle near Dingwall was the seat of the Mackenzie Earls of Seaforth and was closely connected to Clan MacRae through service and alliance. The MacRaes served as bodyguards and trusted lieutenants to the Mackenzies for centuries. Though the castle was never theirs, MacRae clansmen played a ceremonial role during major events, including funerals and clan gatherings. The castle was demolished in the 20th century, but the grounds are still accessible. It stands as a reminder of MacRae loyalty to their Mackenzie allies.

Beaufort Castle
Beaufort Castle, near Beauly, was the seat of the Frasers of Lovat and features in MacRae tradition as part of their origin story. According to legend, a MacRae killed a Fraser and fled from Beaufort, eventually settling in Kintail. While the castle was never occupied by the clan, it represents the beginning of the MacRae journey to prominence. The present castle is a 19th-century mansion built on earlier foundations. Its story ties into the clan’s early migration westward.

References

Coventry, M. (2010). The Castles of Scotland (5th ed.). Musselburgh: Goblinshead.
Tabraham, C. (2005). Scotland’s Castles. London: Batsford.
MacRae, A. (1910). History of the Clan MacRae. Dingwall: George Souter & Sons.
Historic Environment Scotland. (n.d.). Castle Records and Listings.
MacRae-Gilstrap, J. (1925). Restoration of Eilean Donan Castle: A Personal Record.
RCAHMS. (n.d.). National Monuments Record of Scotland.