Tollie Red Kites RSPB Visitor Centre, Easter Ross & Black Isle

Nature Reserve in Easter Ross & Black Isle

Tollie Red Kite Feeding Centre
CC BY-SA 2.0 / sylvia duckworth

Tollie Red Kites is one of the best places to visit in the Dingwall area if you're fascinated by birds of prey. Set on the Brahan Estate with expansive views across Easter Ross toward Ben Wyvis, this RSPB site offers a memorable experience of watching red kites swoop, circle and glide in their natural environment. The afternoon feeding sessions are the highlight of any visit, drawing in dozens of birds and offering superb photographic opportunities.

Red kites were reintroduced to the north of Scotland in the early 1990s after disappearing for more than a century. Their recovery has become a conservation success story, and Tollie plays a central role in helping visitors understand and appreciate these elegant birds. Ospreys, which breed nearby, often pass overhead in summer, adding even more excitement to the viewing experience.

History and Significance of Tollie Red Kites

The Tollie site reflects a remarkable chapter in Scotland’s wildlife conservation history. Red kites were once widespread across Britain, but habitat loss and persecution drove them to near extinction. A series of reintroduction programmes began in the late 20th century, and northern Scotland became home to one of the most successful.

Tollie Red Kites is jointly managed by RSPB Scotland and the Brahan Estate, combining conservation expertise with local land stewardship. The site was established to give people a close but responsible way to view the birds. Volunteers lead the feeding sessions, ensuring both birds and visitors benefit from a well-managed experience.

Today, the centre helps raise awareness of the species’ recovery while offering one of the most reliable and accessible ways to observe red kites in the Highlands. Its educational role is as important as its wildlife-watching appeal.

Things to See and Do in Tollie Red Kites

The main attraction is the daily afternoon feeding session, when volunteers place food on the hillside and dozens of red kites arrive to feed. Their acrobatic flight patterns—circling, diving and gliding—are impressive to watch and provide excellent opportunities for photography.

Visitors can enjoy the viewing screen outside the converted farm building, which offers shelter and information about the birds. On clear days, the views toward Ben Wyvis add to the atmosphere, creating a stunning Highland backdrop to the wildlife activity.

Outside the core feeding time, the area is still rich in birdlife. Ospreys often fly overhead in summer, and smaller birds frequent the nearby trees and farmland. The peaceful rural setting makes the site a pleasant place to linger and observe nature.

How to Get to Tollie Red Kites

The nearest airport is Inverness Airport, roughly 45–50 minutes away by car. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Easter Ross & Black Isle on Booking.com.

There is no direct train service to the site. Travellers can take the train to Dingwall and continue by taxi or bus toward the Brahan Estate area. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

Most visitors arrive by car, following local roads from Dingwall or Contin. There is parking available at the visitor centre.

Practical Tips on Visiting Tollie Red Kites

  • Best time to visit Tollie Red Kites: Afternoon feeding sessions offer the best viewing, especially in colder months when more birds gather.
  • Entrance fee in Euros: Free; donations to the RSPB are welcome.
  • Opening hours: Open year-round; feeding times vary slightly by season.
  • Official website: Check the RSPB website for the latest feeding schedule.
  • How long to spend: 45–90 minutes is ideal for watching the feeding and enjoying the views.
  • Accessibility: The viewing area is accessible but may have uneven ground in places.
  • Facilities: Basic facilities only; indoor access is limited to the converted building.
  • Photography tip: Use a fast shutter speed to capture the birds’ sharp turns and dives.
  • Guided tours: Volunteers provide informal commentary during feeding sessions.
  • Nearby food options: Dingwall and Contin both offer cafés and small eateries.

Where to Stay close to Tollie Red Kites

Visitors can choose from several comfortable options nearby. In Dingwall, The National Hotel offers easy access to regional attractions. Travellers wanting a rural setting may enjoy Kinkell House Hotel. For a historic stay with a touch of Highland character, Tulloch Castle Hotel is also within easy reach.

Is Tollie Red Kites Worth Visiting?

Yes, Tollie Red Kites is absolutely worth visiting, especially for nature lovers and families. The chance to watch these magnificent birds flying so close, combined with the beautiful Highland scenery, makes for an inspiring and memorable experience. It’s an excellent addition to any wildlife-focused visit to the Black Isle or Easter Ross.

FAQs for Visiting Tollie Red Kites

When is feeding time?
Feeding usually takes place every afternoon; check the RSPB website for the exact schedule.

Is the site suitable for children?
Yes, children often enjoy watching the birds and learning from volunteers.

Are dogs allowed?
Dogs should be kept on a lead and away from the feeding area.

Is the site open year-round?
Yes, though the number of birds varies seasonally.

Do ospreys visit the site?
Ospreys often fly overhead during the summer months.

Nearby Attractions to Tollie Red Kites

  • Rogie Falls – Spectacular waterfalls with woodland trails and salmon leaping in late summer.
  • Dingwall Museum – A friendly, volunteer-run museum exploring local history.
  • Black Rock Gorge – A dramatic ravine near Evanton with mythic associations.
  • Strathpeffer – A Victorian spa village surrounded by scenic walks.
  • Udale Bay – An excellent birdwatching site for waders, geese and migrating species.

The Tollie Red Kites RSPB Visitor Centre appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Easter Ross & Black Isle!

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Visiting Tollie Red Kites RSPB Visitor Centre

Hours:

Visitor centre open from 9am-5pm;

access to outdoor viewing screens at all times; Feeding times: daily at 2.30pm in summer and 1.30pm in winter (Feeding times change when the clocks change).

Easter Ross & Black Isle: 16 km
Telephone: : 01463 715000

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