Castle Leod
Castle Leod, near Strathpeffer, is the historic seat of Clan Mackenzie and home to John Mackenzie, 5th Earl of Cromartie. The Mackenzie family has lived there for more than 500 years, and the Category A-listed castle remains one of the best-preserved historic clan seats in the Highlands. It is also widely recognised as the real-life inspiration for Castle Leoch in Outlander.
Project 404 designed and developed a bespoke WordPress website that brings together this extraordinary history with the practical needs of a modern visitor attraction. The site covers the Castle, Clan Mackenzie heritage, public open days, private tours, holiday accommodation, the historic grounds and the wider local community, creating a clear and engaging platform for visitors from Scotland and around the world.
CLIENT:
Castle Leod
YEAR:
2024 - To Present
WEBSITE:
The Project
Project 404 designed and developed a bespoke WordPress website for Castle Leod, creating a modern and flexible online presence while preserving the character and individuality of one of the Highlands’ most important historic family homes.
The site brings together the Castle’s remarkable history, the story of the Mackenzie family and its continuing role as the symbolic heart of Clan Mackenzie. Dedicated content also helps visitors discover the Castle’s connection with Outlander, its architecture, historic interiors and the generations of people who have shaped its story.
Visitor information was made clear and easy to navigate, covering public open days, private guided tours, accessibility, travel, refreshments and the Castle’s celebrated tree walk. The grounds contain several notable specimens, including Scotland’s oldest recorded Spanish Chestnut and one of Britain’s largest Giant Sequoias.
The website also promotes the estate’s holiday accommodation and its close relationship with the surrounding Strathpeffer community, including the annual Strathpeffer Highland Gathering and other local sporting and cultural activities. Our work with other historic Highland family estates also includes Ballindalloch Castle.
We continue to support the site with ongoing maintenance, content updates and technical support, helping Castle Leod share its history with new audiences while remaining a practical resource for visitors, Clan Mackenzie members and returning guests.
Thinking About a New Website?
Whether you have a clear brief or are just starting to explore the possibilities, we’re always happy to talk through ideas. If you’d like to chat about your project, get in touch.