Beauly and Strathglass

Beauly (population 1,500) is the principal local centre for the west of the area. The village continues to support a good range of shops and businesses together with health and education facilities, its service role drawing on historical cross-boundary links with Ross-shire.

The village’s prime landmark is the Priory, a Category A listed Building. The adjoining 'square' designated as an Outstanding Conservation Area and a fine tree lined street of substantial stone-built properties gives the village an impressive character. Restoration of this heritage is important to the village’s appeal as a local tourist attraction.

Rising slopes and wooded margins of the adjoining countryside give a pleasant setting, important semi-natural habitats and walks. The Heritage Trust is promoting the outstanding environment of the western glens and Strathglass through the A861 scenic route. The recent opening of a rail halt and associated parking in Beauly improved the transport links with Inverness.