Achnasheen City Guide

About Achnasheen – History and Culture

Achnasheen is a remote hamlet in the Scottish Highlands, nestled in a glacial valley at the confluence of the River Bran and Allt a' Choire. Its history is intertwined with the Highland Clearances of the 18th and 19th centuries, when the area was emptied of much of its population to make way for sheep farming. The few remaining families shifted from subsistence crofting to a mixed economy of sheep, deer stalking, and later tourism. The construction of the Kyle of Lochalsh railway line in the 1890s turned Achnasheen into a minor transport hub, with a station and a hotel serving travellers en route to the Isle of Skye and Wester Ross.

Today, the village is a quiet stop for rail passengers and a base for outdoor enthusiasts. Gaelic culture endures in local place names and the few native speakers scattered across glens. The annual Mod, a Gaelic festival, may not reach Achnasheen directly, but nearby Gairloch and Ullapool host events that celebrate piping, dancing, and song. The modern identity of Achnasheen is shaped by its wild landscape, a sense of self-reliance, and a welcoming attitude toward visitors seeking solitude or adventure.

• Achnasheen railway station – a picturesque stop on the Kyle line (opened 1870).
• Loch a' Chroisg – a shallow loch popular for trout fishing and birdwatching.
• Ruins of cleared crofts can be found along the glen, notably at Leckmelm and Corriehallie.
• The Achnasheen Hotel (demolished early 2000s) was a famous coaching inn where Queen Victoria once stayed.
• St. Mary's Chapel (Kinlochewe) – a Category B listed building serving the Episcopal community.
• Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve – the UK's first NNR, established 1951.
• Gairloch Heritage Museum (10 miles) – exhibits on crofting, fishing, and local history.
• The old drove road to Loch Maree, used for centuries to transport cattle.
• Glen Docherty – a pass with panoramic views and connections to the Jacobite risings.

Did You Know? – Facts about Achnasheen

Achnasheen epitomises the remote Highland experience. Though tiny, its railway station links it to the Kyle of Lochalsh–Inverness line, often voted one of the world's most scenic train journeys. The area boasts exceptionally dark skies, making it a prime location for astrophotography and northern lights viewing. Locals pride themselves on a deep-rooted connection to nature, with many engaging in stalking, fishing, or hillwalking as a way of life.

• Achnasheen is frequently listed as one of the UK's most 'remote' railway stations.
• The nearest fuel station is in Kinlochewe, 6 miles away (opening hours limited).
• There is no shop, pub, or café in the village; visitors must be self-sufficient.
• The postcode IV22 2 will get mail delivered – but many use a PO Box in Gairloch.
• Wild camping is tolerated under the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, but fires are discouraged.
• The area is home to the rare willow warbler and the Scottish crossbill.
• Midge season runs from May to September; head nets and repellent are essential.
• Parts of the village are within the Northwest Highlands Geopark (UNESCO Global Geopark).
• The main land use is sheep grazing and commercial forestry (Forestry and Land Scotland).
• In winter, the A832 can be impassable due to snow; the railway is more reliable.
• There is no ATM in the village; nearest cash machine is in Gairloch or Ullapool.
• Broadband speeds are low (around 5 Mbps); satellite internet is common.
• Electric vehicle charging points are rare; most visitors use the one at Kinlochewe (rapid charger).
• The local school closed in the 1960s; children are bussed to Kinlochewe Primary, then to Gairloch High School.

Geography and Climate of Achnasheen

Achnasheen lies at an altitude of 70 metres in a U-shaped valley carved by glaciers. The surrounding mountains, including Beinn Eighe (1,010 m) and Slioch (980 m), dominate the skyline. The River Bran flows through the glen, fed by numerous burns from the surrounding Munros and Corbett tops. The geological substrate is mainly Torridonian sandstone and Lewisian gneiss, giving the landscape a rich red hue and supporting a unique flora of montane heath and bog.

The climate is cool and oceanic, with frequent rain from the Atlantic depressions. Snowfall can occur from November to April, but the valley floor rarely gets deep accumulations. Summers are mild with long daylight hours (18+ hours in June), ideal for hiking. Winter days are short (6 hours of daylight) and often overcast. Wind can be strong in the glen, funnelling through the passes. The nearest official weather station is at Kinlochewe, which records average annual rainfall of over 2,000 mm. July is the wettest month; April and May are the driest.

• Location: Wester Ross, Highlands, coordinates 57.58°N, 5.25°W.
• Time zone: GMT (UTC+0) / BST (UTC+1) in summer.
• Daylight: midwinter sunrise 09:00, sunset 15:30; midsummer sunrise 04:15, sunset 22:30.
• Average winter temperatures: 1°C to 6°C.
• Average summer temperatures: 10°C to 18°C.
• Annual rainfall: ~2,200 mm.
• Snow days: 20–30 per year on adjacent mountains; valley floor about 10 days lying snow.
• Wind: prevailing south-westerly, gusts can exceed 70 mph in winter storms.
• Hardiness zone: USDA 8b/9a (UK zone 8).
• Nearest large water body: Loch Maree (6 miles west), famous for its trout and salmon.
• Geopark status: Northwest Highlands Geopark covers the area.

Things to Do in Achnasheen

Despite its small size, Achnasheen is a launchpad for countless outdoor and cultural activities. The surrounding glens, lochs, and mountains offer world-class hiking, biking, fishing, and wildlife watching. A short drive leads to attractions on the North Coast 500 and the Wester Ross coast.

Food & Dining

There are no eateries in Achnasheen itself. The nearest food is at the Kinlochewe Hotel (6 miles), serving pub classics and local game. The Gairloch area offers more choices, including the Old Inn, The Badachro Inn, and the Gairloch Hotel (carvery). For self-catering, shops in Kinlochewe (limited hours) and a larger Co-op in Gairloch stock essentials. Many visitors bring supplies from Inverness or Ullapool. Traditional Highland fare includes venison casserole, salmon, and crowdie cheese. Local bakeries in Gairloch and Poolewe offer oatcakes and shortbread.

• Kinlochewe Hotel – traditional pub with beer garden.
• The Badachro Inn – seafood and craft ale, 12 miles away.
• The Sheiling Restaurant (Gairloch) – fine dining with local ingredients.
• Co-op Gairloch – supermarket for self-catering (open 7am-10pm).
• Loch Maree sea trout and salmon – catch your own (permit required).
• Venison from local estates – available at Gairloch butcher.
• Pick up fresh fish from the pier in Gairloch (seasonal).
• Try a dram of single malt at the Torridon Inn (20 miles).
• No fast food chains within 40 miles.
• Special diet: most places cater for vegetarians and gluten-free, but vegan options limited.

Festivals & Events

Community events are held mainly in Gairloch, Kinlochewe, and Ullapool. The Gairloch Highland Gathering (usually August) features piping, Highland dancing, and heavy events. The Ullapool Book Festival (April) draws literary figures. The Wester Ross Science Festival (October) holds events in Gairloch and Achnasheen area, including stargazing nights. The local Feis Ros (Gaelic festival) in July involves music workshops. Christmas lights switch-ons are in Gairloch and Kinlochewe. No specific festival is hosted within the hamlet, but the community supports these neighbouring events.

• Gairloch Highland Gathering (August).
• Ullapool Book Festival (April).
• Wester Ross Science Festival (October).
• Feis Ros – Gaelic music festival (July).
• Beinn Eighe guided walks (summer weekends) – ranger-led.
• Dark Sky Discovery events at Loch a' Chroisg.
• Wildlife photography competitions via local estates.
• Local sheepdog trials (Kinlochewe, September).
• Remembrance Sunday service at Kinlochewe War Memorial.
• Weekly ceilidh dances at Gairloch Community Hall (summer).

Cultural Attractions

While Achnasheen lacks major museums, the region is rich in history. The Gairloch Heritage Museum (10 miles) displays crofting life, fishing heritage, and a Victorian classroom. The Inverasdale Pictish stone stands near Poolewe. The Torridon Estate Visitor Centre explains Highland estate management. The Isle of Ewe (off Laide) is a protected island with a poignant history of evacuation. Achnasheen's own railway station is a small architectural gem, with the original signal box still in use.

• Gairloch Heritage Museum.
• Inverasdale Pictish stone.
• Torridon Visitor Centre.
• Loch Maree Islands (ancient burial ground on Isle Maree).
• Corrieshalloch Gorge (National Trust for Scotland) – 20 miles north.
• Ullapool Museum (40 miles).
• Inverewe Garden – subtropical garden on Loch Ewe, 22 miles.
• St. Maelrubha's Church (Poolewe).
• Coigach and Assynt landscape – famous for mountain Suilven and Stac Pollaidh.
• Kyle of Lochalsh Railway – heritage line itself is an attraction.

Outdoor Activities

The main draw of Achnasheen is its unspoilt nature. Hiking options range from gentle lochside walks to challenging Munro ascents (Beinn Eighe, Slioch, Liathach). Mountain biking on forest tracks around Torridon and the Glen Docherty descent is popular. Fishing permits can be obtained from local estates for salmon and trout. Wildlife watching includes red deer, golden eagles, white-tailed eagles, pine martens, and otters. Stargazing is exceptional due to low light pollution. Water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding are possible on Loch Maree and the sea lochs. Winter activities include snowshoeing and ice climbing on frozen gullies. Guided tours are available from Gairloch and Ullapool.

• Beinn Eighe Mountain Trail – nature trail through ancient pinewood.
• Slioch – classic mountain walk from Kinlochewe.
• Liatach and the Torridon ridges – for experienced hikers.
• Glen Docherty – scenic cycle route linking Kinlochewe to Gairloch.
• Loch a' Chroisg circular walk (2 miles, easy).
• River Bran fishing beats (salmon and sea trout).
• Deer stalking on private estates (book through sporting agents).
• Sea kayaking at Badachro or Mellon Udrigle.
• Wild swimming in Loch Maree (cold!).
• Mountain bike hire at Gairloch Cycle Centre.
• Rib cruises on Loch Maree (from Kinlochewe pier, summer).
• Birdwatching at the RSPB reserve at Loch na Curra (near Aultbea).
• Winter mountaineering on Beinn Eighe's cliffs.
• Northern lights chase (best in clear winter nights away from moon).
• Photography tours with local guides (e.g., Highland Photography Tours).

Economy and Key Industries

The economy of Achnasheen is micro-scale, dominated by tourism, crofting, and land management. Tourism spending in the wider Wester Ross area contributes significantly, but many businesses are seasonal. The Kyle of Lochalsh railway line brings visitors, but Achnasheen itself captures only a fraction of that spending. Crofting – small-scale livestock farming on common grazings – remains a way of life for a few families. Deer stalking and salmon fishing leasing provide income for estates. Some residents work remotely in digital roles, relying on limited broadband. Forestry and renewable energy (hydro schemes) also play a role. The nearest large employment centers are Gairloch (hotels, care, council services), Ullapool (fishing and ferry), and Inverness (public sector and retail).

There is no manufacturing or heavy industry. Average wages are low compared to UK averages, but cost of living is also relatively low except for fuel and transport. The unemployment rate is low mainly because people move away for work. The Highland Council is a major employer via schools, roads, and social care. The tourism industry relies on self-employment (B&B owners, guides, musicians). The community has expressed interest in community-owned renewable energy, but projects have yet to materialize.

• Tourism: B&Bs, self-catering cottages, and holiday lets.
• Crotting: sheep (Scottish Blackface) and some cattle.
• Deer stalking: private estates like Kinlochewe Forest, Letterewe.
• Salmon fishing: River Bran, Loch Maree system.
• Forestry: commercial conifer plantations managed by FLS.
• Hydro: micro-hydro schemes power local properties; export to grid.
• Remote work: creative, tech, and consultants.
• Railway: one station master (part-time) and maintenance crew.
• Public sector: a few teachers and nurses commute to Gairloch.
• Construction: seasonal work in housing and road maintenance.
• Retail: none in village; nearest shops employ local people in Kinlochewe/Gairloch.
• Art and craft: local potter and painter sell from home studios.

Where to Live in Achnasheen

Housing in Achnasheen is extremely limited. There are approximately 20-25 houses, including traditional stone cottages, modern bungalows, and some former estate workers' houses. Most are privately owned, with a few social housing units (Highland Council and Albyn Housing). Properties rarely come onto the market; when they do, they are often sold off-market or via word of mouth. The village has no defined neighbourhoods; it is a linear settlement along the A832. A handful of houses cluster around the station, known as 'Station Cottages'. Others are spread along the glen towards Kinlochewe. Living here requires self-sufficiency and a willingness to travel for amenities. The nearest doctor's surgery is in Gairloch (10 miles), with a regular community bus service.

Newcomers often face challenges integrating into a tight-knit community, but those who make an effort are usually welcomed. The area suits those who value solitude, landscape, and outdoor pursuits. For families, the school bus to Kinlochewe Primary (3-11) and Gairloch High School (12-18) is reliable, but extracurricular activities are limited. Retirees and second-home owners are common. There is no council tax band A because all properties are larger than 950 sq ft; typical council tax bands are B to D. Average house prices in the area are around £150,000-£250,000, though supply is constrained.

• Station Cottages: traditional railway workers' homes, now mostly holiday lets.
• Glen Cottages: semi-detached stone houses with central heating.
• Old Manse: former church minister's house, now private residence.
• Newer bungalows (built 2005) near the A890 junction.
• Social housing: 6 units managed by Albyn (waiting list typically 2-5 years).
• Community: mixed ages, but elderly are mostly retired, children few.
• Lifestyle: early to bed, no streetlights, dark skies.
• Pros: peace, beauty, low crime.
• Cons: isolation, lack of services, poor internet, long drives.
• Commute: to Inverness city takes 1 hour 10 minutes by car.
• Nearby alternative: Kinlochewe has more housing options and a shop/pub.

Formalities and Visas in Achnasheen

As part of the United Kingdom, Achnasheen is subject to UK immigration law. Non-UK nationals generally need a visa to live or work, unless they are Irish citizens or have settled status. The UK points-based system applies: skilled worker visas, family visas, and student visas are the main routes. For US, EU, and other visa-exempt nationals, short visits up to 6 months are allowed. To move long-term, a visa must be secured before arrival. There is no local immigration office; applications are processed online through UKVI, with biometrics appointments available in Inverness.

For those already in the UK, there are no specific formalities for Achnasheen beyond registration with a GP and council tax. EU citizens with pre-settled/settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme can reside. Anyone planning to open a bank account or buy property must prove legal residency. The village is in the Highland Council area; council tax is paid to the council. There are no local taxes unique to Achnasheen. For visitors from outside the Common Travel Area, a valid passport is required. No border controls exist within the UK mainland, but flights from abroad land at Inverness Airport, where immigration checks happen.

• Skilled Worker Visa: requires job offer from licensed sponsor; minimum salary £26,200 (usually higher for rural roles).
• Family Visa: for spouse/partner of UK resident; requires income threshold £18,600.
• Student Visa: for courses at recognized institutions; Achnasheen has no schools beyond primary, but students could commute to Inverness.
• Youth Mobility Scheme: available for 18-30 year olds from Australia, Canada, Japan, etc., allows 2 years work.
• Global Talent Visa: for leaders in arts, science, tech; rare for this area.
• Graduate Visa: allows 2 years post-study work; then must switch to skilled worker.
• EU Settlement Scheme: deadline June 2021, but late applications still considered.
• Biometric residence permit: needed for many visas; collect from Inverness Post Office.
• No local police registration required for most visas.
• Healthcare surcharge (IHS) as part of visa application: £624 per year (2024 rates).
• Council registration: come to Achnasheen, council tax based on property band.
• Driving license: foreign licenses accepted for up to 12 months, then must pass UK test.
• Public funds: new immigrants cannot access benefits for 5 years (private life route exceptions).

Working in Achnasheen

Local employment opportunities within Achnasheen are virtually nonexistent beyond self-employment in tourism or a few estate jobs. Most working residents commute to Kinlochewe, Gairloch, or Ullapool. Sectors include hospitality (hotels, restaurants), retail (Co-op, petrol station), care homes, education (schools), and outdoor instruction. The nearest large employer is the Gairloch Hotel (part of Crieff Hydro chain) with about 50 staff. Seasonal work is common: summer tourism, winter stalking. The Kyle line provides some railway jobs (driver, guard, signalman) but few are based in Achnasheen. Remote work is growing, but broadband is inadequate for many online jobs; satellite or 4G (EE has best coverage) is used.

Self-employment: many run B&Bs, self-catering cottages, or guides. The area welcomes entrepreneurs who can operate independently. There is a small business support from Highland Council (Business Gateway) and Scottish Enterprise. For job seekers, the Jobcentre Plus is in Ullapool (40 miles). Minimum wage (2024) is £11.44/hour for over 21s. Typical wages in hospitality: £10-12/hour. A skilled professional (nurse, teacher) earns £36,000-45,000. The remote workforce must be proactive; many attend local networking events in Inverness.

• Tourism roles: chef, housekeeper, receptionist, guide, activity leader.
• Local estates: deer stalker, ghillie, gamekeeper, gardener.
• Education: teaching posts at Kinlochewe Primary, Gairloch High.
• Health care: GP practice, care home workers in Gairloch.
• Retail: Co-op, Post Office (Kinlochewe), gift shops.
• Construction: builders, joiners, electricians (often self-employed).
• Public sector: Highland Council, transport, and social work.
• Creative: photographers, artists, writers for online markets.
• Remote IT/telecom: possible but depends on internet; some use Starlink.
• Part-time and seasonal work: common, especially in tourism.
• Volunteering: fire service (retained), mountain rescue team.
• Average commute: 20 miles each way (30-45 minutes).

Studying in Achnasheen

Achnasheen has no school; the closest is Kinlochewe Primary School (ages 3-11) with about 30 pupils. Secondary pupils are bussed 12 miles to Gairloch High School (roll approx. 120). Both are small but well-regarded, offering a broad curriculum with a strong emphasis on outdoor learning and Gaelic language (Gaelic medium unit at Gairloch High). For further education, students travel to Inverness College UHI (part of the University of the Highlands and Islands) which offers HNC/D, degree, and vocational courses. The University of the Highlands and Islands has a main campus in Inverness but also delivers distance learning across the region. Achnasheen is not a student town; those seeking university life would move to Inverness, Aberdeen, or Glasgow.

Adult education is available through the local learning centre in Gairloch, offering computing, languages, and crafts. The area has a high proportion of lifelong learners, often studying online. For international students, the only feasible option is to enroll at the University of the Highlands and Islands (Inverness) and commute or live on campus. Achnasheen itself has no student accommodation. Student life here would be extremely quiet; most students prefer city living. However, for those studying environmental science, ecology, or outdoor leadership, the location is ideal for fieldwork. Volunteer ranger schemes with the National Trust for Scotland or NatureScot provide hands-on experience.

• Kinlochewe Primary School: roll 24, teacher:pupil ratio 1:12.
• Gairloch High School: S1-S6, 120 pupils, offers Highers and some Advanced Highers.
• Gaelic Medium Education: available at both schools (Gaelic unit).
• Inverness College UHI: main provider of FE/HE for region.
• University of the Highlands and Islands: distance learning options.
• Outdoor learning: John Muir Award, Duke of Edinburgh's Award run by schools.
• Adult learning: Gairloch Learning Centre (LEAD Scotland).
• School bus: daily from Achnasheen (7:30am drop-off at Kinlochewe; secondary bus 8:00am).
• Private tutoring: some online music tutors.
• No nurseries in village; nearest is Kinlochewe Playgroup.
• School holidays: same as Highland Council calendar.
• School meals: free for P1-5 under Scottish government scheme.
• Access to higher education: entry requirements remain UK standard.

Finance and Banks in Achnasheen

There are no banks or ATMs in Achnasheen. The nearest cash machine is at the Co-op in Gairloch (10 miles), and a TSB branch in Ullapool (40 miles). Most locals use online banking and debit/credit cards. Mobile banking is common, but signal can be poor; many plan ahead. The traditional bank branches have closed in many Highland towns, and Gairloch lost its Royal Bank of Scotland in 2021. A mobile banking van visits Gairloch once a week (check RBS or TSB schedule). For international transfers, services like Wise or Revolut are popular. Currency exchange is best done in Inverness or at the airport.

Opening a bank account for newcomers requires proof of address (utility bill or council tax letter) and a passport/BRP. Some digital banks (Monzo, Starling) can be opened with a UK address and proof of identity online. For a small community, financial advice is limited; local accountants offer tax help for self-employed. The cost of living is moderate except for fuel and transport. Council tax bands typically B-D; water and sewerage are included in council tax (Scottish Water). Income tax is the same as UK rates (20% basic, 40% higher). National Insurance contributions apply. For pensioners, the state pension is paid; many have private or workplace pensions. There is a local credit union (Highland Credit Union) that operates in nearby towns, but no physical branch in Achnasheen.

• No bank branch within 10 miles; best use online banking.
• ATMs: Co-op Gairloch (free), Kinlochewe Hotel (maybe £1.50 fee).
• Currency exchange: Inverness (Travelex at Eastgate Centre).
• Digital banks: Starling, Monzo, Revolut – good for travel and rural areas.
• High street banks: TSB Ullapool (Mon-Fri 10-2).
• Mobile banking: RBS van at Gairloch Wednesdays weekly.
• Account opening: need proof of address (rental agreement, council tax letter).
• International transfers: Wise, PayPal, bank transfers (SWIFT fees apply).
• Financial advice: limited; accountants in Gairloch (MacMillen & Co) and Ullapool.
• Credit union: Highland Credit Union (online and by phone).
• Tax: income tax as UK; council tax based on property band (average £1,200-£2,000/year).
• Mortgages: available from national lenders, but valuation may be tricky for remote properties.
• Investment: no local stockbroker; use platforms like Hargreaves Lansdown.
• Business banking: available from high street banks; some offer rural support.

Health Care in Achnasheen

Healthcare is provided by NHS Highland. The nearest GP surgery is in Gairloch (Gairloch Medical Practice), about 10 miles away. They offer appointments Monday-Friday; out-of-hours call NHS24 (111). A community nurse visits Achnasheen weekly for housebound patients. For emergencies, the nearest Accident & Emergency department is at Raigmore Hospital in Inverness (70 miles, 1 hour 20 minutes drive). The Scottish Ambulance Service can respond, but response times can be long due to remote location. The village has a defibrillator at the old telephone box. Dental services are in Gairloch (limited NHS patients) and Inverness. Opticians: Gairloch (Specsavers home visiting); full service in Inverness.

Residents register with a GP upon moving; many remain registered even if they move slightly and travel. For tourists, any GP will see for emergency treatment, or visit a local pharmacy for minor ailments. Pharmacies in Gairloch (Boots) and Ullapool. Mental health support is via NHS Highland; there is a local service in Gairloch (counselling) but often waiting lists. Community hospital in Gairloch has a minor injuries unit (open 9-5 weekdays). For maternity, women travel to Inverness for delivery; midwife visits are available. Private health care is rare; the nearest private hospital is BMI Inverness. Private GP services (online) are growing. Public health is good; common issues are lack of exercise (due to car dependency) and alcohol consumption (typical of remote communities). Air ambulance is available for serious cases.

• GP: Gairloch Medical Practice (10 miles), phone 01445 712239.
• NHS 24: dial 111 for out-of-hours advice.
• Emergency: 999 ambulance to Inverness; response time 30-60 minutes.
• Minor Injuries Unit: Gairloch Community Hospital (9am-5pm weekdays).
• Dentist: Gairloch Dental Practice (limited NHS list).
• Pharmacy: Boots Gairloch (9-6 weekdays, 9-12 Saturday).
• Optician: mobile service from Specsavers visits monthly.
• Mental health: Highland Mental Health Support (phone triage).
• Community nurse: visits Thursday; contact GP practice.
• Defibrillator: outside old phone box on A832.
• Health visitors: for under 5s, based in Gairloch.
• Pregnancy: consultant-led care at Raigmore; midwife clinic in Gairloch monthly.
• Private GP: online services like Babylon or Push Doctor.
• Flu vaccination: annual clinic at village hall (October).

Accommodation in Achnasheen

Accommodation options in Achnasheen itself are limited to a few self-catering cottages and one B&B (Cul na Shee). There are no hotels in the hamlet; the historic hotel is gone. Self-catering properties are popular among anglers and walkers, often booked months ahead. Prices vary from £600-1,500/week in peak summer. For longer-term rentals, supply is almost zero; most local houses are owner-occupied. Some crofts are let with grazing rights. Buying a property is difficult due to low turnover; estate agents rarely list Achnasheen specifically. Kinlochewe offers more options, including the Kinlochewe Hotel (rooms) and self-catering lodges. Nearby Gairloch has a wider range: hotels, B&Bs, caravan parks, and youth hostel.

For those planning to move permanently, building a new house is possible if land can be acquired; however, planning permission in remote areas is subject to strict policies (only for those with a proven local need or tie to area). The Highland Local Development Plan designates Achnasheen as a 'small settlement' where only infill housing is permitted. Self-build is an option, with costs around £200-300/sq ft. Most new houses are built by existing residents. There are no large