Camus House, the history.

(what we know so far….)

A House Built on History

Camus comes from the Gaelic word for “on the bay,” and this special place was originally built in the Arts and Crafts style—a design movement known for its focus on craftsmanship and harmony with nature.

The first known resident was Nigel Banks MacKenzie (1836–1924), a remarkable man born on the remote island of St Kilda. The son of a Church of Scotland minister, MacKenzie studied at Edinburgh Academy and Edinburgh University, later becoming a solicitor and Writer to the Signet. He eventually managed the British Linen Bank’s Fort William branch, ran a legal and land agency, and served as factor to several estates including Lochiel, Ardgour, Glenfintaig, Glenuig, and Kingairloch.

He played a major role in bringing the West Highland Railway to Fort William and its later extension to Mallaig. Over his lifetime, he served as Provost of Fort William and Chairman of Inverness County Council. He and his wife, Lilias Scott MacKenzie, had 11 children. Camus House—then also known as Camusmore—was their cherished summer home. A keen sailor, MacKenzie had boat houses here in Onich and in Fort William.

Changing Hands Through the Years

Camus House has passed through many hands, each adding to its story:

• 1902: Sold to sisters Minto and Jessie Scott for £573.

• ~1920s: Acquired by Colonel Donald Cameron, later possibly passed to his son.

• 1938: Bought by Henry Hodgson and added to the North British Aluminium Company’s property portfolio during the development of the Lochaber Smelter.

• 1961: Purchased by Stanley and Elizabeth Weston, a retired works manager and his wife, for £6,500.

• 1968: Sold to William and Peggy Miller, who lived here for 8 years.

• 1976: Bought by schoolteacher William Buchanan and his wife Barbara.

• 1981: Retired teacher Lachlan McCloud and his brother James moved in. Following a divorce, the house was sold in 1983 to Samuel and Eleanor Hamill for £53,117.

• 1987: As property values began to climb, Gordon and Anne Eckersley purchased the beautiful Camus House for £90,000, marking a new chapter in its history.

• 1989–2002: Soon after, Ronald D.E. Young and Helen W. Young became the proud custodians of Camus House. They successfully operated it as a guest house for over a decade before eventually selling the property and leaving Onich.

• 2002–2017: Then purchased by Alistair and Louise Campbell, who not only made it their home and ran it for 15 years.

• 2017: Simon Seymour and Heather McDonald took over in 2017, establishing a thriving guest house here, warmly welcoming travellers from around the world..

• 2025: After eight wonderful years, Simon and Heather passed on the legacy to Emily and Gregor MacLean. Now home to four generations of their extended family, Camus House continues to thrive as a place of warmth, hospitality, and timeless charm.

Today at Camus House

In 2025, the latest chapter of Camus House began under new ownership with Emily & Gregor MacLean. We’re honoured to continue its long tradition of Highland hospitality. Whether you're here to hike the glens, sail the lochs, or simply enjoy a quiet moment by the bay, we hope your time here adds a page to the rich story of Camus House.

Welcome to Camus House—welcome home.