20 September 2025 (10:00 - 17:00)
Ballone Castle was built in 1590 and is a late example of a Medieval Z Plan Tower House. It is a Category A Listed Building with a strong central tower with two further towers on opposite corners. The castle stands on the cliff edge looking out to sea, a mile east of Portmahomack. It was uninhabited from 1693 and gradually became derelict over three hundred years. The ruin was bought in 1990 by Lachie and Annie Stewart, who set about restoring it as a family home.
The castle and grounds will be open to the public and people can enter the main hall and dining room up a wide staircase. Viewing the upper floors on the guided tour involves negotiating medieval spiral staircases, which may not be suitable for everyone.
For Doors Open Days there will be guided tours of the house on a regular basis by the owner, Lachie Stewart. There will also be teas and baking available through out the day with donations to the Tain and Easter Ross Civic Trust.
Refreshments will be available, water bottles can be filled up, coastal walk from Ballone to the lighthouse and round to Portmahomack recommended.

Address
Portmahomack, Tain, IV20 1RD