Out & About
Glenfinnan
Glenfinnan is a hamlet in the Lochaber area of the Highlands of Scotland. It is visited each year by thousands of visitors in search of the beautiful and dramatic scenery and to delve into the local history, which is surprisingly significant for such a small village. For it was here in Glenfinnan, in 1745, that the Jacobite Rising began when Prince Charles Edward Stuart raised his standard on the shores of Loch Shiel. This historic time is commemorated by the Glenfinnan Monument in the image of a lone, kilted highlander that stands proudly over the head of the loch to remember the clansmen that gave their lives to the Jacobite cause. The Jacobite way of life has never quite left Glenfinnan, as each year at the Glenfinnan Gathering it is celebrated by participating in highland games and enjoying local food and drink.
Tourist Attractions
The famous Glenfinnan Viaduct is only a short walk from the house. The stunning piece of construction, which opened in 1901, overlooks the Glenfinnan Monument and Loch Shiel. The viaduct is part of the West Highland Railway and is still very much in use today by Scotrail passenger trains and the Jacobite Steam Train in the summer months.
A monument erected in 1815 to honour the Jacobite clansmen that died during the Jacobite Rising. The monument stands at the head of Loch Shiel and gives stunning views to the landscape around it. There is a visitors centre near the monument with exhibitions, gift shop, toilets and a cafe.
This beautiful, well preserved church was built in 1873 and is a short walk away from The Armoury.
Glenfinnan Station Museum is a working railway station which aims to celebrate the heritage of the West Highland Line. It has indoor and outdoor exhibits which tell the history of the Glenfinnan Viaduct and life in the West Highlands as well as the story of the railway station over the past century.
The beautiful silver sands of Morar are only 30 minutes drive from the house along the road to the isles. The beaches of Morar are infamous for their crisp white sand and crystal clear water. Most of the these can be accessed from the road side and on clear days give excellent views of the small isles of Rum, Eigg, Muck and Canna. A perfect activity for those that enjoy peaceful walks.
Activities & Events
Enjoy historical, bird-watching and wildlife cruises on Loch Shiel in a beautiful and unspoiled location. Cruise along the 18 mile stretch of loch and spot Golden Eagles, White-Tailed Eagles, Red Deer and a variety of other birds and wildlife.
The Viaduct trail is a short 1 to 2 hour walk which passes the Glenfinnan Viaduct and Loch Shiel. View the local wildlife along the trail and get a fantastic view of the Jacobite Steam Train passing by on the viaduct.
Board the Jacobite Steam Train as seen in the Harry potter movies for the train journey of a lifetime. Described as the greatest railway journey in the world, this is a must do activity when visiting Glenfinnan. The 84 mile round trip starts at Ben Nevis and ends in the fishing port Mallaig, operating from April to October.
This event takes place each year on the third saturday of August. The gathering celebrates a way of life that is now long gone through highland dancing, field track and 'heavy' events and ending with the traditional 'tossing of the caber'.
The Loch Shiel festival celebrates the diverse genres of music in the country, hosting performances from internationally renowned chamber musicians, reviving traditional music that was once lost in the spectacular setting of Loch Shiel and the surrounding area. The festival takes place in Spring of each year.
Food & Drink
Take a step back in time and enjoy a meal inside the restored dining car at Glenfinnan Station Museum. This unique cafe offers a special dining experience with tasty, locally sourced food and drink to enjoy. After your meal, you can sit outside on the verandah to take in the brilliant scenery of Loch Shiel. Having a meal in the dining car also entitles you to a free tour of the museum!
Travel
The Calmac ferry service in Mallaig is the most convenient way to get to the Isle of Skye and The Small Isles (Canna, Eigg, Muck and Rum). It's a 30 minute drive from Glenfinnan and is a 5 minute walk from Mallaig train station.
Glenfinnan Train Station is a short 5 minute walk from the house. If you're travelling by public transport, there are trains to and from Glasgow and Edinburgh a few times a day so it's simple and easy to get to the house. Looking for a fantastic day out? Why not hop on a train to the outdoor capital of the UK, Fort William? Or if you're looking for breathtaking coastal scenery, you'll find more than you could ask for in and around the small town of Mallaig.