MacQuarie’s Mausoleum (National Trust for Scotland)

Macquarie’s Mausoleum is a poignant and historically significant site located at Gruline on the Isle of Mull. This modest, gable-ended structure of plain ashlar sandstone is the final resting place of Major-General Lachlan Macquarie (1761–1824), often referred to as “the Father of Australia” due to his transformative governorship of New South Wales from 1810 to 1821. Born on the nearby Isle of Ulva, Macquarie chose this tranquil spot on Mull for his burial. The mausoleum also contains the remains of his wife Elizabeth, their infant daughter Jane, and their son Lachlan Jnr. The mausoleum itself was likely erected around 1851-1852 by the Drummonds of Strathallan, who inherited the Gruline estate.

The site holds international significance due to Lachlan Macquarie’s profound legacy in Australia. For many years, the mausoleum suffered neglect. However, in 1948, the then-owner of the estate, Lady Yarborough, generously gifted the mausoleum site to the people of New South Wales through an Australian trust. Since 1971, the National Trust for Scotland has worked in close cooperation with the National Trust of Australia (New South Wales) to care for and preserve this unique piece of shared heritage, ensuring its protection and maintenance for future generations. This collaborative guardianship highlights the enduring connection between Mull and Australia.

Visiting Macquarie’s Mausoleum offers a reflective experience within a peaceful rural setting. It is located approximately 3 miles from Salen and 13 miles from Tobermory, off the B8035 road at Gruline. Visitors must park in a designated lay-by on the public road, as no vehicles are permitted at the mausoleum itself. A short, accessible track of around 500 meters (roughly 0.3 miles) leads from the lay-by to the mausoleum, passing by private houses on the Gruline House Farm (visitors are requested to respect residents’ privacy and keep dogs on short leads). This gentle walk provides a quiet opportunity to connect with a significant piece of Scottish and Australian history.