Dunkeld Cathedral

The Battle of Dunkeld

The Battle of Dunkeld was fought between the Jacobites and a government regiment of Covenanters, the Cameronians, in August 1689. Following the death of Viscount Dundee in the Jacobite victory at the Battle of Killiecrankie, command of the Jacobites was passed to Colonel Alexander Cannon.

The chairman of the 1745 Association, Michael Nevin said: ‘Dunkeld was quite unlike any other battle of the Jacobite Wars, fought in an urban environment with brutal street-to-street fighting between the two sides. By the end of the fight, Dunkeld lay in flames, never to regain its former glory. Only the Cathedral remains today of the buildings that stood before 1689.’

The Cameronians had only been formed three months earlier and had no battle experience, when they were dispatched to defend Dunkeld, arriving there on Saturday 17th August. Experts felt that the town would be unable to hold out against the impending attack of the incoming three thousand Jacobite soldiers who were jubilant and confident after their victory at the Battle of Killiecrankie. They were led by Lieutenant Colonel William Cleland.

As the town of Dunkeld was not protected by town walls, Colonel Cleland ordered his troops to take up defensive positions within the cathedral. The fighting began when the Jacobites, who outnumbered the Cameronians by more than four to one, stormed the town from all sides. They were initially successful, forcing the Cameronians back from all their outlying positions, although in the town's narrow, winding streets there was no room for the type of Highland charge that succeeded at Killiecrankie.

The Battle lasted for 16 hours, and Colonel Cleland was one of the first casualties within the first hour, but they still managed to emerge victorious. The Highlanders pushed there way forward with some success for some time, but found themselves depleted of energy and ammunition by 11pm and were forced to withdraw. They left behind around 300 of their men dead or dying in the town. 

The Cameronians are reported to have stripped lead from the roof of Atholl House to keep firing because they had also exhausted their munitions. Holes caused by musket balls are still visible in the east gable of Dunkeld Cathedral. With the battle over, the Cameronian Covenanters claimed a war-winning victory. Losses on the Williamite side are unclear, but ranged from 20 to 50. Colonel Cleland was buried in the cathedral.

Visiting Dunkeld Cathedral

Described as the Gateway to Highland Perthshire, Dunkeld is a beautiful small town which is easy to find from all directions.

Nestled in the heart of Dunkeld, the Cathedral enjoys a perfect location for people of all ages and mobility. Shops, cafes, accommodation, the train station, bus stops and car parks are all nearby, and the area is ideal for exploring on foot as well as by car or for those less mobile.

From June to September a Steward is on duty in the Cathedral to help with any questions you may have. Please be aware that the Cathedral is a working building and at times access may be restricted due to events such as services, wedding or concerts.