IMPOSING VIEW OF
INVERARAY CASTLE, HOME OF THE
DUKE OF ARGYLL, HEAD OF CLAN CAMPBELL.
Mid
Argyll is explored here from Inveraray travelling south in a clockwise
direction to Lochgilphead and north to Loch Awe towards the regional
centre of Oban.
At the head of Loch Fyne is Cairndow, a tiny little village nestling
beneath the steep hills, looking over the Loch. Closeby is The Tree
Shop at Clachan, Cairndow, on the A83 which features a specialist
plant centre together with a craft shop and the picturesque Ardkinglas
Woodland Garden is open all year except January (admission charge).
Sitting on the western shore of Loch Fyne is the dreamy little town
of Inveraray. First impressions of the white washed, pristine
little town are always to fall in love with it, particularly on calm
days with the buildings dappled reflections in the loch.
Looking across to the Cowal Peninsula, the town is a classic example
of the Scottish Georgian style of architecture.
Approached on A82 and A83 from the south or (A85 and A813) from the
north Inveraray has much to offer the visitor.
Inveraray Castle is the home of the Duke of Argyll (head of Clan
Campbell) and was built between 1741 and 1785. The Castle has a chateau
feel to it and inside has an excellent armoury hall as well as a shop,
tea room and woodland walks.
Inveraray Jail (the living 19th century prison) is open all year
and has beautifully restored buildings and features warders and prisoners
in period dress recreating the past. The jail was closed in the 1930's
and now offers several exhibitions including a courtroom trial, the
grim Old Prison and the 'modern' New Prison. (Open April-Oct daily 09.30
- 18.00, Nov-Mar 10.00 -17.00. Admission charge).
The Bell Tower open mid May to September (admission charge) contains
Scotland’s finest bells and is a mecca for camponologists worldwide.
The Bell Tower, for those not interested in bell ringing, offers amazing
views of Loch Fyne and the town.
