General Wade's Roads in Scotland

General Wade’s Military Roads offer a fascinating journey through Scotland’s rugged Highland landscapes and rich history. This network of roads dates from the early 18th century, built to improve military control and communication in the Scottish Highlands. It was in response to a period of rebellion in Scotland, known as the Jacobite Risings, which the British government sought to quash. General George Wade, a military engineer, oversaw the construction of roads and bridges to allow rapid troop movements. Between 1725 and 1737, Wade and his men built around 250 miles of roads, linking key military locations. Today, many of these routes are preserved as hiking trails, while others have been incorporated into modern roads.