Historical Routes through the Highlands

A series of information sheets on a selection of archaeological and historical walks in the North of Scotland (click on the links below to open a pdf of the route)

Route 1: The Old Drove Road from Aultguish to Little Garve Bridge, sometimes known as “the Fish Road”

Route 2: The Old Road from Clachan Church, Loch Broom to Dundonnell, Little Loch Broom

Route 3: Slochd to Sluggan, General Wade's Military Road

Route 4: The Tollie Path, from Poolewe to Slattadale

Introduction

NOSAS was formed in the Autumn of 1998 with the aim of “furthering the study of archaeology in the North of Scotland and promoting the interest to a wider audience”. In the early days several old routes were walked by members and it was felt appropriate that a project promoting the “Historical Routes through the Highlands” and providing information on them should be part of our 20 year celebrations. The first of the these information sheets was written up and put on the NOSAS website in the Spring of 2019 and it is the intention to add more over the coming months. The sheets will be updating where necessary as we go along. The walks are aimed at local people and visitors, anybody with an interest in the heritage of the Highlands and the outdoors.

The routes are varied and have had different purposes over the years. It is hoped that each one will be an interesting experience and provide a good day out. Sites of archaeological and historical interest along the way which are not necessarily connected with the route are flagged up too. The routes are scenically attractive and have been carefully selected, researched and written up by members and friends of the North of Scotland Archaeological Society. They are Public Rights of Way unless otherwise stated.

Information on the routes and the sheets

1. An information sheet for each walk is produced as a PDF which can be downloaded or printed and carried with you when you walk the route.

2. Information on length, ascent and difficulty of terrain is given and the walks are graded easy, moderate or difficult, but this of course is relative to each person’s fitness.

3. Although a description of the route is included it is essential that an OS map is carried and referred to (either the Explorer (1:25,000) or the Landranger (1:50,000) series). Relevant Explorer map numbers are quoted in each entry.

4. Be aware that some of the routes are serious undertakings; they cross high mountain terrain and in winter may be regarded as typical Scottish hill days. Wear appropriate clothing and footwear, know how to read a map and compass and be prepared to turn back.

5. Historical Information with documentary references and images on the route is included

6. Information on other sites of archaeological and historical interest along the way is also provided in the shaded boxes.

7. Inevitably many of the routes are linear and there will be problems with transport to and from starts and finishes. Public transport is not always available and use of a bicycle or two vehicles may be necessary. We have included some suggestions for circular alternatives where possible; and in some walks we have been able to combine routes of different types to make “circular days”.

8. We will try to keep the sheets as up to date as possible and would appreciate any feedback on condition, changes to access etc

9. You are responsible for your own safety.

MMM May 2019