A short drive from Helmsdale, up the Strath of Kildonan (or Strath Ullie), is Baile an Or (Gaelic for 'goldfield'), site of the great Sutherland Gold Rush of 1869. It all started after local man Robert Gilchrist returned home from the Australian gold fields only to discover gold here, on his doorstep. His success brought others rushing to Kildonan, and soon a shanty town had sprung up to accommodate them.
Within a year the gold rush was over, but small amounts are still found today. Anyone who fancies their luck can try a bit of gold panning in the Kildonan Burn at Baile an Or, about a mile from Kildonan train station. You can rent out gold panning kits at Strath Ullie Crafts & Fishing Tackle, Tel. 821343, opposite the Timespan Heritage Centre in Helmsdale, for £2.50 per day, and licences are free.
Nearby Castles
After the Gold Rush Cottages and Holiday SelfCatering
Featured
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Owl Cottage, Helmsdale - Sleeps 6
Enjoying stunning views across the rolling fields and the waters of the Moray Firth. Within walking distance of a lovely sandy beach, this extended former croft house makes the perfect holiday base for tou... -
Kildonan Cottage, Sutherland - Sleeps 4
Commanding superb views of Helmsdale River and the surrounding countryside in a wonderfully remote location, this detached stone cottage (1880) was formerly the shepherd\'s home, standing in 2000 sq. .... -
Old Crab Factory Holiday Cottage, Helmsdale - Sleeps 6
Converted holiday home set on/above shore with panoramic view. V. spacious, including a bar area in the living room, games room etc. Private with access to the adjacent rocky beaches below. Sleeps 6. -
Wilkys Holiday Cottage near Helmsdale - Sleeps 6
Detached stone workman's cottage inland from Helmsdale on North East coast of Scotland. Sleeps six people in three bedrooms. -
Granny's Cottage at Dunbeath on NE Coast - Sleeps 4
Terraced stone cottage is situated in the village of Dunbeath on the North East coast north of Helmsdale. Sleeps four people in two bedrooms. No Pets or children. -
Lobster Ponds, with Sea Views - Sleeps 10
Situated on its own, right on the shoreline, enjoying panoramic views of the seascape this unique detached house offers an exceptionally good standard of holiday accommodation throughout. The living room a...