Skip to content

The Clans of Skye & Lochalsh

START: 04 August 2014
END: 08 August 2014
COST: £250
COST (STUDENT): £200
BOOK NOW

We are in our second year of running this unique course that gives the real story about some of the most recognisable Clans in Scottish history.  As well as looking at the accepted history, the course has a close look at their songs, traditions and places, offering an alternative, native view of these Clans and dispelling the myths that surround them. 

Some very familiar names are found in Skye and Lochalsh: the MacDonalds, MacLeods, Mackinnons & Mackenzies. But there are other fascinating families found here as well, whose histories are intimately linked with the bigger Clans, including the MacAskills, MacCrimmons, MacArthurs, MacLennans and MacRaes. 

Fortunately there is a wealth of material concerning each of these clans and their status and influence in Highland society, through the generations and up to the modern day. This distinctly historical course takes you to the very places where the clans were established and indeed lived, fought, died — and from which their people were often evicted.  It includes important events which occurred in Skye and Lochalsh and provides local information handed down both through the oral tradition and in historical records. The course therefore includes lectures based at the College and daily trips around Skye and Lochalsh, visiting the places of interest under the capable guidance of our Gaelic-speaking tutors.

This course is largely taught through English but includes aspects of Gaelic song and music which allow us insight into the thoughts of the people that made them, and a Highland perspective on the events that affected them and the surrounding landscape. It is ideal for those who have an interest in Highland history or who would like to explore the history, places and connections of their own families to these Clans.

Due to the nature of this special course, there are limited places available; it is advisable to book early to avoid disappointment.

© Sabhal Mòr Ostaig | Design by CGS | Sabhal Mòr Ostaig is a Scottish registered charity · No. SC002578