Top 10 Things to Do in Argyll

#1 St Conan’s Kirk!

Of course, it goes without saying that #1 on our list is our own wonderful St Conan’s Kirk, but whilst you’re visiting us, you may want to take in some of the other attractions in the area.

#2 Kilchurn Castle

We have to recommend a visit to one of the most photographed castles in Scotland which is 2 miles from the Kirk. You can even get a distant view from the Kirk gardens. Visit our Kilchurn Castle dedicated webpage to find out more. There are dozens of other castles in Argyll, from visiting the public rooms of fairy-tale Inveraray castle, to the views across to tiny Castle Stalker. Loch Awe itself has 3 other castles.

Kilchurn Castle on Loch Awe

#3 The Hollow Mountain

Only 4 miles away is the Hollow Mountain – Cruachan Pumped Storage hydro scheme which is open to visitors. It is an amazing place to visit, where the water from Loch Awe is pumped to reservoir high above the loch and then returned to generate electricity. As well as visiting the centre, if you’re feeling energetic, you can walk the 3 miles up to the Cruachan Dam. You can start the walk from the Kirk. Simply cross over the road, turning left and walk for 100 yards then turn into St Conan’s Road and keeping right, follow the road all way to the top.

The Cruachan Dam with Ben Cruachan behind

#4 Visit Oban

Oban is a historic town, the gateway to the Argyll islands and has a wide range of things to do, from just going for a walk and an ice-cream to visiting McCaigs tower.

#5 Auchindrain Township

Auchindrain township shares what life was like for centuries in Scotland. Strolling through the different buildings you can feel what life was like. Volunteers and staff in period costume help bring things to (a slower) way life.

#6 The Gardens

Take in a garden. Argyll is home to a number of gardens that give a unique visit. From Ardkinglas (home to the UK’s tallest tree), to the Benmore botanic gardens, Crerae Gardens , Arduaine Gardens or for a more local visit, try Angus’ Garden. Do check out the websites prior to visiting, as some will close during winter months. Here is a map of the locations of the gardens of Argyll in relation to St Conan’s Kirk.

#7 Visit an Island

Mainland Argyll is amazing but we also have a huge range of Islands and a visit is not complete without visiting one. Larger Islands like Mull and Islay may need more than a day as there are so many things to do but for a short visit one of the best things to do in Argyll is to go skimming stones on Seil Island. A short boat journey brings you to the historic source of slate for many of the UK’s houses. For trips to Mull etc, it is strongly recommended to book as early as possible, as the ferries fill up quickly!

#8 Kilmartin Glen

Visit the historic kingdom of Alba. Kilmartin Glen is home to the remains Dunadd fort, the historic place where kings were crowned and oaths sworn. In Kilmartin Glen you can also visit standing stones, stone circles, cup and ring rock engravings and cairns. The museum is well worth a visit.

The Standing Stones in Kilmartin Glen

#9 Eat

Argyll has many good or even great pubs, restaurants and cafes and also access to some incredible fresh seafood. If planning to visit the Kirk and the Tea Room is closed, the closest place you can get lunch or dinner is The Ben Cruachan Inn, situated a wee stroll away in Lochawe village. Booking is recommended. If travelling onwards, then during the summer month, check out the world famous Green Shack in Oban.

#10 Drink

Possibly even in one one the distilleries that made Scotland famous for whisky. A whisky lover may choose to spend a day or two on Islay sampling peaty malts and visiting iconic distilleries or you could stay on the mainland and visit a distillery or brewery. Our closest to St Conan’s is Oban Distillery. A tour is very much recommended, as is the Oban 14 year old!

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