Once Upon a Time – The History of Grantown on Spey

For whatever reason you have been drawn to find out more about Grantown on Spey, there’s no denying that our town has a fascinating history and lots of stories to tell. A town established in 1765 in the Scottish Highlands, you’ll find the River Spey weaving alongside the town and the majestic Cairngorms mountains on its fringes.

You’ll notice on arrival in Grantown, that it’s laid out beautifully, with Georgian and Victorian architecture sprinkled throughout the town. A carefully planned 18th century town it was once regarded as the capital of the Cairngorms. Nowadays it is often considered the gateway to the Scottish Highlands and a must-stop on your Scottish Itinerary.

Home of the clan Grant, Good Sir James Grant first settled in the town in June of 1765 when he bought premises for the sum of £40 that later became a weaving shop and a home for his family.

By the early 1800’s the population grew to almost 500 as did the number of merchants. Queen Victoria’s visit to the town in 1860 cemented Grantown on Spey’s place on the Scottish map as a place to visit and the rest as they say is history.

Another endorsement of our fair town was a visit by our beloved bard Robert Burns who wrote of his dinner with Sir James and Lady Grant “a sweet pleasant body”.

Over the centuries Grantown was also known for (and still is) its brewing and distilling industries and the arrival of railway lines in the 19th century further put Grantown on the map as an attractive place for visitors.

There is so much more to our town to learn about, so many characters from its past that you’ll really enjoy hearing about. We highly recommend a visit to our local museum or indeed taking a Speyside Tour to learn more about our fantastic town and region.

When you stay in the Ben Mhor hotel, you will experience an authentic taste of Grantown hospitality, comfortable rooms and a truly special Scottish welcome right in the centre of this great community.

Choose from a selection of single, twin, double, king and family rooms when you stay with us. Always book online and direct www.benmhorhotel.co.uk for best prices.