Inveraray

Written by Graham Smith, Hannah McKinsey, Jake Evans, Karen Price
28/08/2025
Discover the breathtaking aerial view of Inveraray Castle amidst Scotland's lush landscapes.
Archie McNicol, Pexels

Inveraray, a captivating 18th-century planned town on the tranquil shores of Loch Fyne, offers a unique opportunity to explore significant historical sites like Inveraray Castle and Inveraray Jail, alongside picturesque natural landscapes perfect for scenic walks and breathtaking views. It serves as an ideal destination for those seeking both cultural enrichment and serene outdoor experiences on Scotland's west coast.

Opportunities to socialise are found within the town's charming array of independent shops, cafes, and local pubs, where visitors can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere and engage with locals and other tourists.

Top 5 Things to do in Inveraray

Exploring historical landmarks, engaging with local heritage, and enjoying scenic walks with breathtaking views are central to a visit to Inveraray.

1. Inveraray Castle

Visitors can step into the ancestral home of the Duke of Argyll, chief of Clan Campbell. This magnificent 18th-century castle showcases striking architecture and grand interiors, featuring period furniture, tapestries, and a vast collection of historic weaponry. Exploring the castle's first two floors and basement offers insight into the Campbell family's role in shaping Scottish history. Beyond the castle walls, the extensive formal gardens provide a delightful setting for a leisurely stroll amidst vibrant rhododendrons and azaleas, often featuring woodland walking trails around the wider Argyll Estate.

Cost: Adult admission is typically £18.00, with reduced rates for seniors and children. Garden-only entry is approximately £10.00. Guided tours for groups can be arranged for an additional fee.

Transport: Inveraray Castle is approximately a 10-minute walk from the town centre. Regular Scottish Citylink bus services from Glasgow and Oban stop in Inveraray, with the castle being accessible on foot from the town.

2. Inveraray Jail

This award-winning living museum transports visitors back to the 19th century, offering an authentic glimpse into prison life. One can wander through the original courthouse and cells, encountering costumed characters and wax figures that vividly depict the experiences of former inmates, including men, women, and even children. The jail also provides interactive exhibits, detailing the harsh conditions and punishment methods of the era. For those seeking a more immersive challenge, an escape room experience is available, offering a unique group activity within the historic prison setting.

Cost: Adult admission is typically £15.95, with concessions for seniors and students at £13.95, and children (5-16) at £9.95. Children under 5 are free. Wheelchair users are admitted free to accessible ground floor areas.

Transport: Inveraray Jail is conveniently located at the top of Main Street in Church Square, within easy walking distance of the town centre. Limited free parking is available directly in front of the jail, with a larger public car park nearby.

3. Dun Na Cuaiche Woodland Walk

This invigorating woodland walk leads to the Dun Na Cuaiche watchtower, offering one of the most rewarding viewpoints in the area. The trail begins within the grounds of Inveraray Castle, ascending through the forest. While parts of the walk are steep, the effort is well worth it for the breathtaking panoramic views from the 18th-century watchtower. From the summit, one can see the uninterrupted expanse of Loch Fyne, the surrounding mountains including the Arrochar Alps, and the entire town of Inveraray. It serves as an excellent spot for photography or a peaceful picnic.

Cost: Free, as the trail starts within the castle grounds but does not require castle admission.

Transport: The walk starts from the Inveraray Castle car park, which is a short walk from the town centre. The trail itself is well-marked with blue arrows.

4. Inveraray Bell Tower

For those able to ascend 176 spiral steps, the Inveraray Bell Tower provides exceptional elevated views over Loch Fyne, the charming town, and the picturesque surrounding landscapes. This prominent landmark, also known as The Duke's Tower, houses ten bells, renowned for having one of the heaviest peals in the UK. A small exhibition at the tower's base details its history and the bells themselves, with opportunities to see the ringing chamber. The tower is typically open to visitors for a short period during the summer months.

Cost: Admission is approximately £7 for adults and £5 for children. A family ticket is available for around £20.

Transport: The Bell Tower is located within Inveraray town centre on The Avenue, making it easily accessible on foot from most parts of the town. Public car parking is available nearby.

5. Auchindrain Township

Located a short distance from Inveraray, Auchindrain is Scotland's last surviving and best-preserved Highland farming township. This unique museum offers an authentic and tangible experience of rural Highland life as it was lived for centuries. Visitors can explore restored longhouses, byres, stables, and fields, gaining an understanding of how families collaboratively worked the land. Interactive guide tablets provide details about each building's use, features, and snippets of information about past inhabitants, allowing for a genuine immersion into a long-vanished Scottish way of life.

Cost: Typically, adult admission applies. It is recommended to check their official website for current pricing, as the site has experienced temporary closures for maintenance.

Transport: Auchindrain Township is located about six miles south of Inveraray on the A83. It is accessible by car, with signposted turn-offs. Citylink bus service 926, running between Glasgow and Campbeltown, has a timetabled stop at Auchindrain.

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Argyll & The West Coast
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