The adventures of Hamish Macbeth will be familiar to many from the television series starring Robert Carlyle, produced from 1995 to 1997. Hamish is a Police Constable in the Scottish Highlands, where he maintains his own brand of law and order in a village filled with many interesting characters.

M.C. Beaton is the pen name of Marion Chesney, a prolific English author who penned 38 novels in the Hamish Macbeth series of books (titles below). Her other works include the popular Agatha Raisin and Edwardian Murder Mystery series.

Location

The Hamish Macbeth books are set in the fictional fishing village of Lochdubh (meaning black lake in Gaelic). The picturesque village of Plockton on the shores of Loch Carron brought Lochdubh to life on TV.

Journey

The closest large town to Plockton is Inverness, and I arrived there first thing in the morning on the overnight train from London. This was a fabulous way to travel, as I arrived having spent a comfortable night in a sleeper berth and could catch the next train directly to Plockton.

The journey time from Inverness by train is just under two and a half hours.

From Plockton train station it’s around 15 minutes walk downhill to the village. Heading down Innes Street towards Harbour Street, the view of the water opens up before you.

On your right is the filming location for Rory Campbell’s shop, which now houses the Plockton Craft Shop. Turning left you’ll see the building that served as the exterior of the Stag Bar; its former signage now a plain whitewashed wall.

Harbour Street follows the sweep of the shoreline around to the headland and is lined with a perfect row of cottages facing the water. Keep walking along the street until you reach a red telephone box, and then turn right. Ahead of you is the causeway – as long as the tide isn’t in!

At the other end of the causeway (or along Harbour Street and up Cooper Street if the causeway is under water) you’ll see the house that acted as Hamish’s Police Station. It’s clearly visible from most places on the waterfront as it sits right out on the headland.

Having stopped in at the local shop, I enjoyed a picnic lunch looking out over the harbour. The village was peaceful, with very few people around.

My visit was in April and the early spring weather was surprisingly warm. Plockton’s climate is influenced by the warm waters of the Gulf Stream and can be milder than expected.

Things to do in Plockton

• Seal-watching boat trips on Loch Carron
• Plockton visitor centre (open during summer months)
• Woodland walks (guided walks available during summer months) 
• See many more on Tripadvisor.com

Getting there

• Travel from London to Inverness on the Caledonian Sleeper train (overnight)
• Travel from Inverness to Plockton by train (two and a half hours)
• Drive from Inverness to Plockton (2 hours/75 miles)

Related links

Scenes from the 1973 movie The Wicker Man and an episode of the TV series Inspector Alleyn Mysteries were also filmed in Plockton.

About Plockton

Plockton is a picturesque village located in the Highlands of Scotland. It is situated on the west coast, specifically in the county of Ross and Cromarty, within the council area of Highland. Plockton is known for its stunning natural beauty, serene surroundings, and unique charm. Here are some key features and aspects of Plockton:

1. Scenic Beauty: Plockton is renowned for its stunning coastal landscapes, with views of Loch Carron and the surrounding hills. The village is nestled between lush green hills and the calm waters of the loch, creating a breathtaking backdrop.

2. Mild Climate: Plockton enjoys a relatively mild climate compared to other parts of Scotland, thanks to its sheltered location and the warming influence of the Gulf Stream. This allows for a diverse range of plants to flourish and contributes to the unique microclimate of the area.

3. Palm Trees: One of the most distinctive features of Plockton is its palm trees, which thrive due to the mild climate. The sight of palm trees against the Scottish backdrop is quite unusual and adds to the village’s charm.

4. Marine Life: The waters around Plockton are home to a variety of marine life, including seals, otters, and seabirds. Boat trips are popular among visitors for observing these creatures and exploring the picturesque coastline.

5. Artistic Community: Plockton has attracted artists, writers, and musicians for decades due to its idyllic setting. The village has inspired many creative works, and there are art galleries and craft shops that showcase local talent.

6. Seafood: Being located by the coast, Plockton offers fresh seafood as a culinary highlight. Visitors can enjoy locally caught seafood dishes in the village’s restaurants and eateries.

7. Outdoor Activities: The surrounding area provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and sailing. The landscape is characterized by rolling hills, clear waters, and hiking trails that cater to different levels of difficulty.

8. Plockton Inn: This historic inn is a popular spot for both locals and visitors. It offers traditional Scottish hospitality, food, and drinks in a cozy atmosphere.

Plockton’s combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, and welcoming atmosphere makes it a sought-after destination for travelers looking to experience the scenic splendor of the Scottish Highlands.