Avoch's origins trace back to at least the 12th century, with the construction of Ormonde Castle around 1179, serving as a royal stronghold for King William the Lion. The castle, overlooking the village, later became associated with the Moray family, including Andrew de Moray, who was a key figure in Scotland’s Wars of Independence. 

Local legend suggests that Avoch itself was founded by survivors of the Spanish Armada, although this remains unproven. In 1588, the retreating Armada was scattered by storms around the coasts of Scotland and Ireland, with several ships wrecked. Folklore holds that some of the surviving sailors made their way to the Black Isle, including Avoch.

Some believed these sailors were taken in by local people or held as prisoners, who later settled in the area. Undocumented tradition also suggests that some families may have had Spanish ancestry, although that may simply add a hint of mystery and romance to Avoch’s coastal history, reflecting its strong connection with the sea! 

The modern village was developed in the 18th century, combining the three settlements of Seatown, Kirktown and Milltown. Many of the listed buildings, which include ordinary houses, ships’ chandlers and warehouses, were built in the 19th century period of continuing improvement. 

The village flourished as a fishing hub, particularly during the 18th and 19th centuries, focusing on herring and sprat fisheries. In 1815, a harbour designed by engineer Thomas Telford was constructed to support the growing fishing industry. The arrival of the Highland Railway's Fortrose branch in 1894 further enhanced Avoch’s connectivity, though passenger services ceased in 1951 and goods traffic in 1960.

Killen, in contrast, has a predominantly agricultural history, with its development centred around farming activities. The area has been characterised by its rural landscape and farming communities, contributing to the agricultural heritage of the Black Isle.

Rosehaugh Estate, located near Avoch, played a significant role in the area’s social and economic life during the 19th century. Originally the seat of the influential Fletcher family, the estate was later owned and lavishly redeveloped by James Fletcher, a wealthy industrialist. The grand Rosehaugh House, though demolished in the 1950s, was once a prominent landmark, surrounded by extensive gardens, woodlands and model farms. The estate provided employment for many locals and its legacy remains in the landscape and local memory.

Sir Alexander Mackenzie (1764–1820), who is buried in Avoch, was a pioneering Scottish explorer, best known for his expeditions across North America. In 1789, he navigated what would later be named the Mackenzie River, reaching the Arctic Ocean. He later led the first recorded overland crossing of North America north of Mexico, reaching the Pacific in 1793.

After his explorations, Mackenzie returned to Scotland and, in 1812, married Geddes Mackenzie, heiress to the Avoch estate. He settled there, and upon his death in 1820, was buried in the Avoch churchyard, where a memorial commemorates his achievements.

Margaret MacDonald, nanny to Queen Elizabeth II and known as Bobo, was born in George Street, Avoch.

A lot of fascinating information about Avoch’s history and heritage can be found in the Avoch Archive and on the Avoch Past and Present Facebook page. The ARCH website contains a wealth of interesting information about the Black Isle Communities.