Bunchrew: A Journey Through the History of a Highland Village
Nestled approximately 3 miles (5 km) west of Inverness, Bunchrew (Scottish Gaelic: Bun Craobh, meaning "Near to the Tree") is a serene village located in the Highland council area of Scotland. Situated along the A862 near the south shore of the Beauly Firth, this small settlement blends natural beauty with a rich, often turbulent, historical legacy.
Today, the village is known for its quiet charm, featuring a small caravan park and camping site, while the Far North Line railway passes through its landscape.
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Key Facts
- Location: Highland council area, Scotland, near the Beauly Firth.
- Notable Landmark: Bunchrew House, a Scottish baronial-style mansion.
- Historical Ties: Deeply connected to both Clan Fraser and Clan Forbes.
- Transport History: Formerly served by the Inverness and Ross-shire Railway (1862–1964).
- Current Use: Bunchrew House now operates as a luxury hotel and wedding venue.
The Evolution of Bunchrew House
At the northern end of the village stands Bunchrew House, a stunning example of Scottish baronial architecture. The estate's origins date back to 1505, when it was built by Alexander Fraser of Lovat. Originally, the structure was little more than a blackhouse—a traditional Scottish dwelling with thick walls and a thatched roof—consisting of only two rooms. Evidence of this original wall remains today, preserved behind the wooden panelling of the drawing room.
The house saw significant expansion under Simon Fraser, the 6th Lord of Lovat, who commissioned the work as a gift for his wife, Lady Jean (sister to the 2nd Earl of Moray). Although Lady Jean oversaw much of the development, she passed away shortly after its completion in 1621.
The Clan Forbes Era and Local Rivalries
In 1673, the estate changed hands when it was sold to John Forbes of Clan Forbes. This transition was marked by tension; upon purchasing the home, Forbes reportedly removed the "Fraser—Lord Lovat" motto carved above the front door. This act provoked a retaliatory strike by 30 members of Clan Fraser, who smashed the building's windows and destroyed an on-site mill.
Despite the conflict, John Forbes invested heavily in the grounds before his death in 1688. He is credited with planting what is believed to be the oldest holly tree in Scotland, as well as a Lebanese cedar. The latter is known as the "Loving Tree," based on the tradition that couples who swear oaths of love beneath its branches will find good luck.
Political Turmoil and the Jacobite Risings
The estate played a role in the broader political struggles of Scotland during the Jacobite risings. Duncan Forbes, the grandson of John Forbes, was instrumental in suppressing the rebellion of '45. He was the first to notify London of Charles Edward Stuart's landing in Scotland and collaborated with General George Wade during the Highland marches.
Forbes's loyalty to the British government made him a target; Clan Fraser of Lovat attempted to kidnap him during the Siege of Culloden House, though the plot failed. While Forbes advocated for severe punishments for the rebellion's leaders, the conflict left him financially ruined, as the British government never reimbursed him for his expenses. Local legend suggests that treasures from the house were buried atop nearby Craig Dunain during this period, though they have never been recovered.
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Industrial and Modern History
In the late 19th century, Bunchrew's landscape was not only residential but industrial. A large bone manure works operated near the railway station, though it became the subject of several investigations due to the toxic fumes it emitted into the air.
The village's transport links were once more robust, with a station on the Inverness and Ross-shire Railway opening in 1862. This station served passengers until 1960 and handled goods until its final closure in 1964.
From Military Use to Luxury Hospitality
The ownership of Bunchrew House returned to the Frasers in 1842 when it was purchased by John Fraser (later Fraser-Mackenzie). The property remained in the family until it was acquired by Malcolm Rifkind, the former Scottish Secretary of State. During the Second World War, the house also served as a station for an RAF unit.
In 1986, Malcolm Rifkind converted the mansion into a luxury hotel and wedding venue, a role it continues to serve today, preserving the estate's grandeur for modern visitors.
Bunchrew Summary Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Highland, Scotland (3 miles west of Inverness) |
| Original Founder | Alexander Fraser of Lovat (1505) |
| Key Clans | Clan Fraser and Clan Forbes |
| Notable Flora | Oldest holly tree in Scotland; the "Loving Tree" (Lebanese cedar) |
| Railway History | Inverness and Ross-shire Railway (Closed 1960/1964) |
| Current Status | Luxury Hotel and Wedding Venue |
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Bunchrew mean?
Bunchrew comes from the Scottish Gaelic Bun Craobh, which translates to "Near to the Tree."
What is the significance of the "Loving Tree"?
The "Loving Tree" is a Lebanese cedar planted by John Forbes. It is believed that couples who make an oath of love under its boughs will be granted good luck.
Who was Duncan Forbes and why was he important?
Duncan Forbes was the inheritor of Bunchrew House and a key figure in quashing the Jacobite rebellion of '45, notably reporting the landing of Charles Edward Stuart to the government in London.
Is there any truth to the legends of buried treasure in Bunchrew?
According to local legend, treasures from Bunchrew House were buried at the top of Craig Dunain during the financial ruin following the Jacobite risings, though no such treasure has ever been found.
What happened to the Bunchrew railway station?
The station was part of the Inverness and Ross-shire Railway. It opened in 1862, closed to passengers in 1960, and finally closed for goods traffic in 1964.