Tradition
Committed to protecting Scotland’s natural beauty and the traditional ways of the Highlands, we carefully manage the Estate to allow wildlife to thrive, embrace sustainable land management as well as looking to create jobs in the Glen. It is our owner’s commitment to preserve the unique Highland way of life. For past, present, and future generations.
Preserving the present for the future.
Spanning 11,000 acres of rugged moorland, ancient peat bogs, and wild Caledonian forest, Tomdoun & East Glenquoich Estate is a living-and-breathing testament to Scotland’s natural heritage. Once a vital stop along the old drovers’ trail to the Isle of Skye – where Bonnie Prince Charlie once walked – this land has long been shaped by history.
History
The settlements of Glengarry were a historic stop for island drovers moving livestock to the mainland from the Isle of Skye and were once under the protection of Clan MacDonell of Glengarry – a branch of one of Scotland’s largest ancient clans, Clan Donald. The chief’s seat of power in the region was Invergarry Castle which stands in ruins, after it’s brutal destruction in the 18th century.
Part of our Braigh Loch Abar Estate encompasses Glenquoich – which was somewhat shaped by Edward ‘Bear’ Ellice who bought the land in the 1830s. An educated businessman, Bear was a partner in the North West Company and made his money in Canada, partly due to the fur trade. He was also Member of Parliament on two occasions.
The centrepiece of the Estate is Tomdoun Lodge which dates back to 1895 – when the manor was built. For some years the Lodge was used as a hotel but trade declined and the building was left needing serious investment to save it from disrepair. Recently refurbished, the stone-built house has been reveived to it’s former glory and again stands proud, looking out over the River Garry.
Nature preservation
The Estate dedicates resource to preserving the burns, streams and rivers that pass through. Promoting responsible fishing practices, habitat management, including an ongoing programme to release salmon eggs into areas that were once more fully stocked. And as part of a broader commitment to sustainability, the Estate plays a vital role in conserving the unique woodland environment that surrounds it. Home to such keystone species in the ecosystem as Caledonian Scots Pine, Birch, and Willow.
Traditional Livestock
We are home to a growing flock of hardy Soay sheep – an early breed from the Isle of Soay – roaming the hills as they have for centuries. The Estate is also working to reintroduce Highland Ponies. It’s a grand sight to see ponies working the hills in the traditional way, and naturally reduces the need for vehicles which helps meet our environmental targets.
Supporting Local
With sustainability driving our stewardship, infrastructure development extends to maintaining essential roads and facilities, Estate management of fishing and traditional pursuits will naturally provide job opportunuities and lasting benefits for the region. Once just a hunting retreat, Tomdoun & East Glenquoich can now be viewed as a wider commitment to the past, present, and future.
Glengarry Shinty Club
First playing this ancient stick-and-ball-sport against in 1882, Glengarry recently became the first team to retain the Chieftain’s Cup in 2024. Their women’s team, one of Scotland’s oldest, holds a record six Valerie Fraser Camanachd Cups. And in Funding the club’s new roof, Tomdoun Estate proudly supports Camanachd Ghleann Gharaidh. We encourage visitors to grab a hot Bovril and watch them play.
