Addastone & Terrabase Surfacing Installation

Set on the shores of Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle is one of Scotland’s most iconic historic sites. As part of a £300,000 renovation project led by Historic Environment Scotland, improvements were made to the pathways and viewing areas to enhance visitor access while preserving the character of the site. Historic Environment Scotland was looking for a hard-wearing surfacing that would be low maintenance, offer good slip resistance and be would be sympathetic to the historic rural setting. Addagrip approved contractor Resarf Flooring Ltd was approached for a solution.

Surfacing Requirements

The project required a durable, low-maintenance surfacing solution that would provide good slip resistance and remain sympathetic to the historic and rural setting. The materials needed to replicate the natural appearance of traditional pathways while improving performance and accessibility.

Addastone resin bonded surfacing was selected for the main pathways, offering the appearance of loose gravel without the associated maintenance issues. A 1–3mm Autumn Gold blend was chosen to brighten the pathways while maintaining a natural, heritage-appropriate aesthetic.

For the viewing area, Addagrip’s Terrabase resin bound system was specified. The no-dig system allowed installation without invasive groundwork, which was particularly important in this sensitive location. A 6–10mm Rustic Tweed blend was selected to complement the pathways while providing a clear visual distinction between areas.

Installation

Addagrip approved contractor Resarf Flooring Ltd, working with main contractor MacKenzie Construction, installed approximately 1,300m² of Addastone to the pathways and 175m² of Terrabase to the viewing area.

Due to the castle’s location and restricted access, delivering materials to site presented a significant logistical challenge. The solution involved airlifting materials by helicopter directly into the grounds, followed by manual distribution to the work areas — a unique aspect of the project.

Installation was carefully phased to maintain access for visitors, with the majority of works completed ahead of the busy Easter period.

Installation Outcome

The completed surfaces provide improved access throughout the site while maintaining the historic character of the landscape. The combination of resin bonded and resin bound systems delivers a durable, slip-resistant, and visually sympathetic solution suited to a high-profile heritage environment.