Nunton

(Baile nan Cailleach)
Western Isles

A small settlement on the west coast of Benbecula in the Outer Hebrides, Nunton (Gael: Baile nan Cailleach, meaning 'settlement of the old women') is located 1¼ miles (2 km) south of Balivanich. The much-altered Nunton House was once part of a nunnery and dates from the 14th century. It was later the home of the MacDonalds of Clanranald. Prince Charles Edward Stuart (1720-88) is said to have hidden here in 1746 and was given clothes to disguise himself by Lady Clanranald before heading 'over the sea to Skye' with Flora MacDonald (1722-90). Nunton is also the site of a ruined chapel, Teampall Mhoire, an old burial ground and a modern cemetery.


Use the tabs on the right of this page to see other parts of this entry arrow

If you have found this information useful please consider making
a donation to help maintain and improve this resource. More info...

By using our site you agree to accept cookies, which help us serve you better