The Old Drumnadrochit Hotel stands as a historic testament to the mysteries surrounding the legendary Loch Ness Monster. Built in 1882, this beautiful structure has borne witness to countless tales and sightings that have fuelled fascination with the elusive creature. In 1882 when the hotel was being rebuilt, stories of a ‘Huge fish’ were circulating in the village of Drumnadrochit.
Rebuilt over a century ago, The Old Drumnadrochit Hotel exudes charm and character, steeped in history. It has been a silent observer to the evolving narratives surrounding Loch Ness and its most famous resident. You can almost feel the echoes of the past as you explore the hotel reception, filled with artefacts spanning the years.
At the Old Drumnadrochit Hotel in 1933, Mrs. Aldie MacKay reported seeing a ‘whale-like fish’ or ‘water beast’ in the waters of Loch Ness, sparking a media frenzy and creating a global legend. During the tour, you’ll hear Aldie speaking of her encounter with the Monster.
By the 1960s, intrigue surrounding Loch Ness led to the establishment of institutions dedicated to uncovering its secrets. This gave rise to The Loch Ness Phenomenon Investigation Bureau, with The Old Drumnadrochit Hotel becoming a gathering point for a generation of investigators.
In the 1960s, the Bremner family purchased The Old Drumnadrochit Hotel, marking the beginning of a new vision. In the 1980s, collaborating with designer Tom Harmsworth, they opened a small Loch Ness exhibition in the hotel stables, transforming it into The Loch Ness Centre.
The Bremners forged a connection with The Loch Ness Project, thus continuing the legacy of exploration. The project became a beacon for scientific research, utilising cutting-edge technology to unravel the mysteries of Loch Ness. The Old Drumnadrochit Hotel, with its historic ties to Loch Ness investigations, remains an essential part of this ongoing scientific endeavour.
Today, The Loch Ness Centre in the old Drumnadrochit Hotel is a fun immersive experience combining history, science, and the search for truth. You can delve into myths, explore scientific research conducted over the years, and become part of the ongoing debate surrounding the loch.
The Old Drumnadrochit Hotel stands as a living testament to the enduring fascination with Loch Ness. From its historic origins and Aldie Mackay’s legacy to The Loch Ness Phenomenon Investigation Bureau, the Bremner Family, The Loch Ness Project, and now the newly renovated Loch Ness Centre, this iconic establishment invites you to embark on a captivating journey through time and myth.
