Tomatin: Distillery and Railway History

When planning a stay in Tomatin, you can choose from several themes: distillery history, railway and church architecture, and the community woodland Hazelbank Woods. If you are looking for a hotel in Tomatin, you can plan your stay around whichever of these topics interests you most. Historic buildings, woodland, routes and the visitor centre each raise different questions for planning.

Distillery and church: history in context

The first formal distillery at the Tomatin site was established in 1897. Tomatin Church was built in 1903 by the United Free Church and served the employees of the newly built distillery and railway. This brings together two distinct historical perspectives: the founding of the distillery and the church’s social role for the people employed in connection with the distillery and railway.

Tomatin Church is also a good example of a tin church. The term adds an architectural classification to its construction date and function. The church can therefore be considered both in terms of its construction and its role for the employees.

Railway viaducts: arches, operation and listed status

Tomatin Railway Viaduct over Allt Na Frithe has nine semicircular arches and continues to be used regularly for passenger services. The arched design is a precise feature of the structure; at the same time, it remains part of the railway network. If you are including rail connections in your travel plans, check the current timetables.

Tomatin Railway Viaduct over Old A9 Road is a Category B listed structure. The two viaducts therefore differ in the features highlighted: the structure over Allt Na Frithe is notable for its arches and regular use for passenger services, while the viaduct over Old A9 Road is notable for its listed status.

Hazelbank Woods, routes and getting there

Hazelbank Woods is a community woodland in the heart of Tomatin. If you would like to include the woodland in your stay, check the ownership and access arrangements locally. This will allow you to plan your visit according to the woodland’s actual rules.

A 5.75 km route in Tomatin passes the old Tomatin railway station. Its length and the point it passes are two concrete details to help you choose a route. Access conditions may change, so check them before setting out. The route and the walk to the visitor centre are separate planning details: the route is described in kilometres and passes the station, while a walking time is given for the journey from the bus stop to the visitor centre.

The Tomatin bus stop is a ten-minute walk from the Tomatin Distillery visitor centre. This time refers to the visitor centre. Bus services and timetables may change, so check current connections for your travel dates.

Discover more destinations: Muir Of Ord, Arisaig, Forsinard, Strome Ferry, Beauly, Strathpeffer, Aird Of Sleat, Foyers

Return to the regional travel overview: Highland.