Tain. This small but thriving town, situated on the south shore of Dornoch Firth, is Scotlands oldest royal burgh. Steeped in dramatic history and scenic landscape, the town boasts spectacular architecture, a great array of wildlife and a wide range of sporting and leisure activities for everyone. As a matter of fact, the many interesting and unusual buildings and hidden-away corners, including the Old Town Hall, the Royal Hotel, the parish church and the museum as well as the more modest houses and commercial premises, were all built by the Maitland family of architects in the late 19th century and have a distinctive appearance.