Janet Horne Memorial Stone

A simple stone marker in Dornoch commemorates one of Scotland's darkest chapters. Janet Horne was executed in 1727, the last person to be legally put to death for witchcraft in Britain. The memorial sits quietly near the town centre, and it's the sort of place that hits you harder than you'd expect for something so understated.

There's not much to see physically - it's a modest stone, really - but the story behind it carries weight. Horne was an elderly woman with learning difficulties, accused of witchcraft during a time when such charges meant certain death. Visiting takes minutes, but it's worth standing there and absorbing what happened.

History enthusiasts will find this worthwhile, particularly anyone interested in the witch trials or social injustice in Scottish history. It's not a tourist spectacle; it's a sober place to reflect. Children might not engage much unless they're already learning about this period, but for adults it's genuinely moving.

You'll find it accessible year-round and free to visit. Dornoch itself is a pleasant enough stop, with the cathedral nearby if you're making an afternoon of it. If you're based at Dornoch Caravan & Camping Park - just a short walk away - it's absolutely worth a quiet visit before or after exploring the wider Sutherland coastline. Don't expect crowds or facilities. This is history served straight, without the heritage centre treatment.