inveraray

DAY TrIp To INVErArAY

With its bright waterfront buildings, sparkling harbour, and backdrop of dramatic hills and forest, Inveraray makes a charming fi rst impression that only hints at the experiences to come.

Inveraray Castle, the fairytale home of Clan Campbell and the current Duke of Argyll, is the town’s chief att raction and was once the sett ing for a Downton Abbey Christmas special. Its armoury hall displays an impressive collection of weapons, including the handle of outlaw Rob Roy’s dagger. More sedate highlights are the state dining room and the tapestry drawing room, and the wellcared-for gardens.

Echoes of Inveraray’s murkier past are part of its appeal too. In the 1800s, Inveraray Jail housed off enders from convicted killers to children caught stealing apples. Today, the jail is a living museum where costumed guides tell stories of former inmates and visitors can try out punishments and experience the excitement of a trial in the courtroom.

Perched on a hilltop high above Loch Fyne, the Dun na Cuaiche watchtower is the stone guardian of Inveraray. Th e 18th-century viewpoint is a relatively short, though challenging walk from Inveraray Castle car park, and provides staggering view of the Fyne Valley – the town, castle, celebrated bell tower and loch can all be seen from the shelter.

A day trip to Inveraray can also encompass living history at Auchindrain, a farming township (a few miles south of the town) that has been carefully preserved. Head north-east from Inveraray town and you reach Cairndow, a scenic hamlet that is home to the celebrated Loch Fyne Oyster Bar and Farm Shop and, for families, the recently-opened Fyne Den play space.

At the very tip of Loch Fyne is Ardkinglas, the stately home and estate that includes Ardkinglass Woodland Garden, home to a remarkable collection of plants and ‘champion’ trees, including some of the tallest, and oldest trees in Britain.