Situated on the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond, Loch Lomond Waterfront offers the ideal location to base yourself while exploring Scotland’s rich heritage and history. If you have family connections in Loch Lomond, read our guide to researching your Scottish ancestry in this area and what we can do to help.

The clan system in Scotland

The clan system in Scotland was a traditional social structure that existed from the 13th to the 18th century. Clans were large kinship groups, each led by a chief who held authority over its members and lands. The clan would be named after the surname of its chief, and members would often change their own surname to match. They maintained their own armies and often engaged in inter-clan conflicts, but also formed alliances through marriage and shared interests.

While the clans no longer hold the same power or land today, they remain a significant part of Scottish identity and heritage. Modern clans are groups with a shared heritage, helping to preserve ancient traditions. They continue to foster community and pride among Scots and their descendants worldwide. If you have a Scottish surname or links to one, enter it here to see if you are part of a clan.

Clans associated with Loch Lomond

During your stay with us, you can enjoy a cultural tour around Loch Lomond, visiting locations associated with notable clans. Private tour companies such as Clan Chief Tours, Scotland’s Wild and Kilted Piper Tours specialise in creating bespoke tours for your particular clan. Contact them directly for more information.

Here are some of the prominent clans in the Loch Lomond area:

MacGregor – The MacGregor clan has a long history in the Loch Lomond area, particularly around the shores of the loch and the surrounding hills. This was once one of the most powerful and feared clans in the region. The most famous member was Rob Roy MacGegor and you can visit several Rob Roy locations in this area.

Colquhoun – The Colquhoun clan was historically based at the impressive Rossdhu House on the northern shore of Loch Lomond.

Buchanan – The Buchanan clan has deep roots around Loch Lomond. Particularly near the village of Drymen and the lands of Buchanan Castle.

Macfarlane – The Macfarlane clan is closely tied to the Loch Lomond area, around the Trossachs, to the north of the loch.

Campbell – The Campbells, one of Scotland’s most powerful clans, also had significant holdings around Loch Lomond.

Stewart – The Stewarts, a royal dynasty, had ties to the Loch Lomond region. Through the Stewart of Luss branch.

Graham – Though their primary territories were further south, the Grahams also had interests in the Loch Lomond region.

Galbraith – The Galbraiths had a strong presence in the area surrounding Loch Lomond, especially around Dumbarton and Balfron. Inchgalbraith, a small island on the loch, was an early stronghold.

So, book your stay with us today and embark on a trip of a lifetime, where history, culture, and unforgettable experiences await.

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A brief history of Mary, Queen of Scots.

Born in 1542 and daughter of King James V of Scotland, Mary was not even a week old before she became Queen of Scotland after her father’s unexpected death. King Henry VIII wanted her to marry his own son to unite the kingdoms. This was rejected by the Scottish parliament.

As a result, Mary was put in danger and spent most of her early life in hiding. She was eventually being sent to France for safety. After becoming Queen of France for just two years, she returned to Scotland a widow at 18 years old.

Her reign in Scotland was turbulent. She fled to England for her own safety. But Queen Elizabeth I distrusted her as Mary, through her ancestry as Henry VII of England’s great-granddaughter, had a claim to the English throne.

After imprisonment for 19 years, Mary was eventually executed in Fotheringhay Castle in Northamptonshire in 1587. Today, her remains lie in Westminster Abbey in London, within a beautiful ornate tomb.

Mary’s local travels in Scotland

Whilst there is no record of Mary visiting Loch Lomond, she stayed for a while in a priory on nearby Lake of Menteith. It was here in Inchmahome Priory that she was sent for a few weeks in 1547 when she was only 4 years old. Although the priory is in ruins now, you are still able to visit by boat between the 1st April and the 1st November. 

Mary also stayed at Stirling Castle. Both as a child and after returning from France. The castle is only a 40 minute drive away, and is definitely worth a day out exploring.  The castle is significant in Mary’s history as it was where she was crowned, in the chapel royal, on the 9th September 1543. Stirling Castle was where she lived before travelling to Inchmahome Priory, and then shipping out to France. 

For those keen to travel a little further, you can visit Lintlithgow Palace, Mary’s birth place. Although now a roofless ruin, it is still and awe-inspiring building, especially with its strikingly modern “crown of thorns” spire.

History all around us

History permeates the Scottish landscape, especially around Loch Lomond and the Trossachs. And it’s not just Mary, Queen of Scots. From the vikings to Rob Roy and the stories of whisky smugglers, there’s always something to discover. Book your stay at Loch Lomond Waterfront today and begin your exploration of this fascinating part of the country. All safe in the knowledge you have a luxurious lodge or chalet to return to and enjoy a cosy night in. Check out our special offers and book your stay. 

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Separating truth from fiction

It is said that there are two Rob Roys in the world. There is the real person who lived between 1671 and 1734, and the fictionalised version made popular by, amongst others, Sir Walter Scott in his book ‘Rob Roy’. The fictionalised version holds a somewhat romantic view of a man forced into the criminal life in order to support his family. His time as an outlaw is not through choice, and he has a heart of gold. Liam Neeson portrayed this version of Rob Roy in the 1995 film of the same name. 

The truth may be a little bit more brutal. He was a man who was indeed not just a cattle rustler but also a fraudster, who aimed to swindle others out of their cash. In fairness, this was a reasonably common practice at the time, but for Rob Roy he made a powerful enemy in the Duke of Montrose. He had Rob Roy declared an outlaw, meaning he could be killed at will without any repercussions to the person who did it. Whilst he felt safe in hiding in the Highlands, he could never relax fully. 

Life near Loch Lomond

He actually owned much of the land near Ben Lomond for some time, and used the road which goes past Loch Lomond Waterfront for his stolen animals. Nearby is also Rob Roy’s Cave, which many say was where he hid during his time as an outlaw. Located by Inversnaid towards the north of Loch Lomond, the walk to it takes you along part of the West Highland Way. It can be a bit tricky at times, so make sure you plan your journey and wear appropriate footwear. 

He lived throughout a time when there was much turmoil in the UK thanks to disagreements over who should sit on the throne. MacGregor found himself balancing loyalties between the forces loyal to the government, and those wishing to overthrow it – the Jacobites. However, MacGregor’s focus was always on himself and ensuring his family’s safety. In this sense, the fictionalised and real versions of him combine. He never wholeheartedly supported one side over another, and throughout his life he seemed to work for both, depending on which served his own means the best. 

In the end, Rob Roy managed to live until he was 63. Before he died, he was pardoned and lived out the remainder of his life as a law abiding citizen, and also a devout Catholic. 

Walking in Rob Roy’s footsteps

All around us at Loch Lomond Waterfront are remnants of the times of Rob Roy’s life. Check out our Rob Roy sites & locations blog about the places you can visit to feel close to this Scots legend. The most visited site is surely Rob Roy’s grave in Balquhidder. Here you can step right up to his final resting place where he is alongside his wife and two sons.  

So if you fancy reliving the tale of Rob Roy MacGregor (without the cattle raiding) come and spend some time at Loch Lomond Waterfront and enjoy time living surrounded by the same scenic beauty of Scotland’s favourite outlaw. Check out our special offers here.

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A national hero

Although William Wallace didn’t look like Mel Gibson, he was certainly an intimidating figure. Standing six foot seven inches tall and weilding a sword which was over 5 foot long, he was someone you would like to have had on your side! 

Born in 1272, he came to the forefront of Scottish politics during the period of uprising against English domination of Scotland. The Battle of Stirling Bridge in 1297 was an historic win for Wallace and his army. He defeated a vastly superior army in terms of both skill and number. Named Guardian of Scotland, he continued to fight for Scotland until he was ultimately captured and taken to King Edward I of England. Here, he was sentenced to death although his legend lived on and inspired others to fight in future wars of independence. 

Braveheart

For many, the first introduction to William Wallace is through Mel Gibson’s 1995 Holywood movie, Braveheart. Whilst best regarded as fiction inspired from fact – and there are plenty of sites who have checked it’s (lack of) historical accuracy – it’s still a cracking movie that opens up Scottish history to a wide audience. However what it does get right is the deep patriotic feeling that runs through many Scottish people, even though we don’t always shout “freedom!” as we walk down the street.

William Wallace and Loch Lomond

If you are interested in finding out more about Wallace, then here are some areas around Loch Lomond that are worth a visit. 

Wallace Monument & Stirling Bridge

For anyone interested in Wallace’s life, then a visit to the Wallace Monument is a must. Only 45 minutes away by car from Loch Lomond Waterfront, it not only hosts three floors of exhibitions, but also a wonderful panoramic open-air view of the landscape from the top. It takes 246 steps to reach there, and they are small and narrow. There are no lifts or escalators at the monument. 

Along the way are rooms which explore Wallace’s life. These include the Hall of Arms which hosts The Wallace Sword. This 3kg, 1.68m-tall sword was said to be Wallace’s own weapon. If true, this means the man must have been exceptionally strong. Once you’ve climbed all the way to the top of the monument, prepare yourself for breathtaking views. The Crown is where all the stairs lead, and lets you gaze out over Stirlingshire as William Wallace once did as he prepared for battle. The Wallace Monument is definitely a must-see attraction in the area.

The Stirling Bridge of Wallace’s time is sadly no longer with us. However, a fine construction dating from the 1400s can be seen. Not only was this where Wallace beat the English, it played a part in the Jacobite uprising of the 1700s. Today’s bridge is very pleasant, and makes for a nice place to pause for a picnic when the weather is good.

Dumbarton Castle

After he was captured in Robroyston, Wallace was taken to Dumbarton Castle before his journey to England.

Dumbarton Rock, once known as Alt Clut (‘Rock of the Clyde’), later took the Gaelic name Dun Breatann (‘Fortress of the Britons’), which evolved into Dumbarton. In the 13th century, Dumbarton Castle was a key border stronghold, with the Norwegian frontier just 10 miles away. The Treaty of Perth (1266) ended this threat, but tensions with England soon followed.

Dumbarton Rock was the stronghold of the Kingdom of Strathclyde and endured multiple sieges, the most devastating being a Viking attack in 870, when Norse kings Olaf and Ivar took captives and treasure after a four-month siege.

Alexander II built the medieval castle around 1220 to defend against Norwegian rule in the Hebrides. Not only did William Wallace spend time here, it also provided refuge for Mary, Queen of Scots before her escape to France.

Just a half hour drive form Loch Lomond Waterfront, Dumbarton Castle makse for an interesting trip through Scottish history.

William Wallace’s grave

Wallace met a grim end at the hands of his captors. His body was dismembered and spread throughout the kingdom. Unfortunately, no official resting place has ever been recorded. However, near Cambuskenneth, not too far from the Wallace Monument, sits what remains of Cambuskenneth Abbey. Here, there is a small stone marked ‘WW’. Wallace had close links with monks and priests in the area (his uncle was a priest in nearby Dunipace). So it may seem possible his remains which were sent to Stirling were saved. But are they here? The stone which lays here is pointed directly at Abbey Craig, site of Wallace’s victory at Stirling Bridge and now also where his monument lays. Coincidence? Maybe…

Wallace’s Isle

In Loch Lomond there is a small, wooded isle called Wallace’s Isle. It’s densely populated by trees, and in all honesty perhaps one of the more tenuous connections to William Wallace! Was it named after him after he sought refuge here? Or is it simply named after some other Wallace? Nobody knows. But if you find yourself near Invergulas, take a look for this island and decide for yourself. Check out local cruises for a unique view.

Explore Wallace’s land

Take a holiday at Loch Lomond Waterfront and delve into this history of one of the country’s biggest heroes. Then, after following the life of William Wallace in Scotland, at the end of your day come back and enjoy the peace and tranquility he must have enjoyed himself here at the shores of Loch Lomond. 

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History of Golf

Golf traces its roots back to the Middle Ages in Scotland, a country widely recognised as the birthplace of modern golf. The Scots introduced the game to the world, a legacy that continues to attract golf enthusiasts to its courses. 

The earliest known reference to golf goes back to 1457. King James II of Scotland banned golf and football because they were distracting people from practising archery, which was important for the military. Despite these restrictions, people kept playing golf in public places like streets and churchyards, which was seen as dangerous and annoying. The Scottish church also didn’t like people playing golf on Sundays, but that didn’t stop everyone from enjoying the game.

The evolution of golf

Although we don’t know exactly when Hickory golf started, it probably came from old stick-and-ball games. This version of golf uses clubs made with hickory wood. It’s popular with golf enthusiasts and history fans.

Golf has come a long way from its simple beginnings. The history of golf in Scotland shows many changes in equipment and course design. Early wooden clubheads were replaced by metal ones, giving players more power and control. The old gutta-percha balls were swapped for rubber-cored ones, which improved performance and made the game more exciting and competitive.

Historic golf courses in Scotland

Visiting Scotland lets you explore some of the world’s oldest and most historic golf courses. Courses like St Andrews, known as the ‘Home of Golf’, reflect the tradition of the game. Musselburgh Links is another historic site, claiming to be the oldest golf course still in use. This golf course dates back to at least 1672.

Golf courses around Loch Lomond

Loch Lomond is one of the most beautiful areas in Scotland and is home to some of the best golf courses in the country. Playing a game of golf here gives players a chance to connect with the history of golf in Scotland. The courses range from old to new designs and layouts while providing all the amenities expected by today’s golfers.

For those staying at Loch Lomond Waterfront, there are several fantastic golf courses within easy reach. These courses are perfect for a memorable round of golf during your visit to Scotland. After a day on the greens, unwind with a dram of our local Glengoyne Whisky in your private hot tub overlooking the loch. What better way to discuss the highs and lows of your game while soaking in the serene beauty of Loch Lomond? Book your stay at Loch Lomond Waterfront today and get ready for a golfing trip you won’t forget.

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If you’re staying near Loch Lomond Waterfront and fancy a day out exploring Scottish history, you’re in luck. For those seeking convenience private bus tours from Loch Lomond Waterfront offer a hassle-free way to explore historic landmarks in and around the area. Sit back, relax and find out about Scotland’s past as you explore the countryside on a Scottish castle tour, perfect for castle bagging and history enthusiasts.

Scottish castle history

Scotland is covered with amazing castles and many are just a stone’s throw away from Loch Lomond Waterfront. Scottish castles have been around since the early 13th century. They were built because Scotland had a turbulent history and having strong forts was important. Nowadays these castles are like time machines, showing off Scotland’s tough history. They are reminders of Scotland’s heritage and what the country has been through.

What is castle bagging?

If you’re a big fan of castles, you might want to give castle bagging a go. It’s like collecting stamps but with castles instead. The goal is to visit as many castles as you can and tick off your list. It’s a fun challenge that history buffs and adventure seekers can both enjoy.

Dumbarton Castle

Just 30 minutes drive from Loch Lomond Waterfront you’ll find Dumbarton Castle. This castle stands proudly on a volcanic rock overlooking the River Clyde. Dumbarton Castle has a long history that goes back to the Dark Ages when it was the capital of the ancient Kingdom of Strathclyde. Its strategic location has made it survive throughout Scottish history, making it a must-visit on your Scottish castle bagging tour. The castle’s impressive location on a rocky outcrop, along with its strong walls and defences, show just how strategically important it was.

Balloch Castle

Balloch Castle and Country Park is a must-see when staying at Loch Lomond Waterfront. A short 25 minutes drive at Loch Lomonds only country park stands Balloch Castle. Sat on the shores of Loch Lomond with beautiful views over the loch. When you visit Balloch Castle, take advantage of grounds, the country park covers over 200 acres and provides stunning views of the waters and plenty of activities to enjoy.

Stirling Castle

Stirling, located just under a 40-minute drive from Loch Lomond Waterfront, is one of Scotland’s most impressive stone castles, making it a great place for castle bagging enthusiasts to visit. It’s a symbol deeply tied to Scotland’s history. The castle’s significance peaked in the 1500s, but it’s been fortified since ancient times due to its volcanic crag. Situated on stunning landscapes, Stirling Castle sits overlooking the historic city of Stirling. Take a stroll through its grounds and dive into stories of royal and military history.

Linlithgow Palace

Drive for 1 hour and you’ll arrive at a favourite residence of Scottish royalty, Linlithgow Palace now stands as a ruin. Linlithgow Palace was the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots. The palace offers a glimpse into the past. Wander through its corridors and courtyards, imagining the people that once filled the halls. Linlithgow Palace stands on a low hill above a small inland loch. The name Linlithgow means ‘the loch in the damp hollow’.

Buchanan Castle

Just a quick 10 minute drive from Loch Lomond Waterfront, Buchanan Castle stands in ruins within the grounds of a golf course near Drymen. Once the proud family home of the Duke of Montrose from Clan Graham, it continues to serve as the Clan Graham’s seat to this day. While it’s no longer safe to explore its interiors, you can still admire the exterior of this historical site. Despite its dilapidated state, Buchanan Castle adds an exciting stop to any castle bagging adventure, surrounded by tales of hauntings.

Edinburgh Castle

Although a bit further afield, Edinburgh Castle is well worth the day trip. Perched on Castle Rock, it dominates the cities iconic skyline and offers views over Edinburgh. This is one of the must-see attractions in Edinburgh, with a network of ancient buildings to explore within the castle walls. Delve into its historical past and you can even see some of the Crown Jewels here.

These are just a few of the Scottish castles close by to Loch Lomond Waterfront. Check out our full castle guide. So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and start exploring! Scottish castle tours from Loch Lomond Waterfront are perfect for day trips. Don’t forget to tick these Scottish castles off your castle bagging list!

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Meet Robert the Bruce – a big deal in Scottish history! The legendary King of Scots led the nation during the turbulent First War of Scottish Independence against England from 1306 to 1329. He is renowned for his resilience and success in restoring Scotland to its independent status. Robert the Bruce is hailed as a national hero and his legacy continues to captivate historians and enthusiasts alike.

The legend of Loch Lomond

Before ascending to the throne, Robert the Bruce faced adversity as an outlaw and was hunted by his enemies. During the early 14th century, an interesting chapter of his life is said to have unfolded at Loch Lomond. A place that holds a special connection to the Scottish king.

Legend has it that the King of Scots and 200 men sought refuge. They were on the run and crossed the waters of Loch Lomond. They found shelter under the branches of an ancient yew tree at Stuc an t’Iobhairt. Also known as the Hill of the Sacrifice.

Today, a weathered yew tree stands on a rocky hill in a private garden at the same spot mentioned in the historical tales. Could this ancient tree be the same one that sheltered Robert the Bruce and his men over 700 years ago? If the story is true and it’s been around for more than seven centuries, imagine how many Scots and travellers might have taken shelter under its branches. The link between Robert the Bruce and Loch Lomond is a real connection to Scottish history.

Exploring Scotland’s history

Thinking about these historic stories makes Loch Lomond even more special. The ancient yew tree has seen so much history and it makes us think about all the tales from Scotland’s past. So, while you are enjoying the beauty of Loch Lomond also give a nod to Robert the Bruce, who left his mark on this place and made it a part of Scotland’s awesome history.

Book your stay at Loch Lomond Waterfront and explore the surrounding area’s history for yourself! We have large self-catering chalets and lodges, and cosy shepherd’s huts on the shores of the loch. Explore our accommodation and book your break today.

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Balmaha is our local village. Just 5 minutes’ walk from Loch Lomond Waterfront, there is plenty to see and do here. There’s a village shop and places to eat and drink, great local walks and a choice of boat trips. So today we want to share a few interesting facts about Balmaha that we’ve picked up along the way, to give you a bit of background.

Named after an 8th-century Saint

The name Balmaha comes from the Gaelic “Bealach Mo-Cha”, meaning ‘the pass of Saint Mo-Cha’. St Mo-Cha or Maha (also known as St Kentigerna or Caintigern), was an 8th-century widow who preached the gospel in Scotland. She is associated with Inchcailloch, an island in Loch Lomond, and Balmaha provided the closest crossing point to row across to it.

It has an ancient healing well

St Mo-Cha / Maha is also commemorated by a well on the moors above the village, St Maha’s Well. The small spring is known for its healing qualities. It is marked by stones in a horseshoe-shape and a small standing stone.

There’s a statue of a Scots celebrity

Tom Weir was an author and TV presenter, best known for his long-running television series in the 1970s and 80s, Weir’s Way. The show was about Scotland and its natural history, and Tom would travel all around the country exploring its landscapes and meeting its people. He became a much-loved celebrity, and after his death, the Tom Weir statue was erected in Balmaha.

You can get around by boat

From Balmaha Boatyard, there are ferries to Inchcailloch island. You can also take the waterbus to the nearby village of Luss. Or enjoy a circular cruise on the loch. Boat trips are seasonal and you can view available services and dates here.

It’s popular with walkers

There are some amazing walks in the local area. For example, a climb to the top of Conic Hill is relatively easy and will reward you with spectacular views. Also the mile-long Millenium Forest trail takes you along the shore and up onto Craigie Fort viewpoint. View more local walks.

Links with the legendary Rob Roy MacGregor

For generations, Balmaha was part of the lands owned by Clan MacGregor. In fact, the outlaw and folk hero Rob Roy MacGregor used the road past our lodges many times to herd his stolen cattle back to his lands on the slopes of Ben Lomond. His father and family members are buried on Inchcailloch Island, just off the shore. Find more Rob Roy locations around Loch Lomond.

It lies on the Highland Boundary Fault

Balmaha is a significant place for geologists to study, because it lies on the Highland Boundary Fault. Millions of years ago, three different fragments of the Earth’s crust came together here. This means the landscapes are remarkably different on each side of the village, and it is known as the place where the Highlands meets the Lowlands.

So, stay at Loch Lomond Waterfront and discover Balmaha village for yourself! We have large self-catering chalets and lodges, and cosy shepherd’s huts on the shores of the loch. Explore our accommodation and book your break today.

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Many of our guests travel far and wide to reach the home of their ancestors. For those with family history in the Loch Lomond area of Scotland, there is plenty you can do while here to get in touch with your roots. And while some of the research can be done online in advance, there is nothing like walking in the footsteps of your forebears. Some say they feel a spiritual connection when they arrive here, like they are coming home for the first time.

How to start your research

You can begin your family research right away. Download a family tree template and fill in what you already know. Ask relatives for their input. They might have old documents and photographs that you don’t know about. Then there are plenty of online resources to help you delve a little deeper. Start with the ScotlandsPeople website. You can use this to search records, order certificates and make copies of records, but please note that charges apply.

Links to Loch Lomond

Now that the initial research is done, it’s time to pack your bags and come to Scotland! Loch Lomond is in the heart of Central Scotland, surrounded by the regions of Stirlingshire, West Dunbartonshire and Argyl. If you have family connections to any of these areas, Loch Lomond is a great place to stay. Our luxury lodges and chalets are located on the shores of the loch and provide the perfect setting for your family history explorations.

Family history centre

When you arrive in Scotland, one of your first ports of call should be a local family history centre. For our guests, the closest one is the Genealogy Centre at the Mitchell Library in Glasgow, around an hour’s drive away. This is open on selected days, you must book an appointment in advance and there is a daily charge. There, you can research records such as birth, marriage and death certificates and the census. You can then access further resources, such as electoral registers, church records, hospital records, military records, wills and testaments and more. The centre houses rare collections of photographs, newspapers, books and maps, so there are many avenues to explore. Who knows where your journey will take you?

Find your clan

If you or your ancestors have a Scottish surname, you may be connected to one of the clans. These are historic kinship groups. At one time, Scotland was split into territories, ruled by Clan Chiefs. Those who lived and worked on the land would pledge allegiance to their Chief and would often take his surname. Today, anyone with the clan surname is automatically a member. Each has its own tartan and crest. Clans linked to the Loch Lomond area include the MacGregors, Buchanans, MacFarlanes, MacNabs and Grahams. Find your clan here.

Ancestry and clan tours

As you uncover names and places, you may build up a list of places to visit during your time in Scotland. Perhaps the street where your great-grandmother was born, or the seat of your Clan Chief. But if you need a little more help or direction, you could book a local tour guide to show you around. For example, Kilted Piper Tours offers Genealogy and Ancestry Tours that will take you on a private tour based on your own family history and research.

Researching your family tree across Scotland

And if you want to head further north, a day trip to the Highland Archive Centre in Inverness is very worth while. Containing masses of material for genealogists, both professional and amateur enthusiasts. We recommend stopping for a night in between your stay with us at the magnificent Fort Augustus. Venture into the glens and around Loch Ness and Inverness for some magical locations. From Culloden Battlefield and the Jacobean uprising to the coming of the English fortifications at Fort George and Fort Augustus, now a beautiful village with a stunning abbey you can stay in. 

Now is the time to delve deeper into your family history with a trip to Scotland. Start your journey today and connect to your Scottish roots.

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We love talking about local history and Scotland’s hidden gems, and today we’ve picked out some interesting sites in and near the Loch Lomond area, that you might otherwise miss. Find more places to visit in our guide to local historical and heritage sites.

The Dumpling

Just south of the village Gartocharn, The Dumpling (or Duncryne Hill) is a wee hill with a distinct dumpling shape. At just 465 feet above sea level, you can climb to the top in approximately 20 minutes and the ascent is relatively short. From the top, you get the most amazing panorama of its surroundings. Watch this video for some wonderful views from Duncryne Hill and several fascinating stories from the area.

New Kilpatrick Cemetery & Roman Baths

At New Kilpatrick Cemetery in the town of Bearsden, about a 30-minute drive from here, you can see a surviving section of the Antoine Wall’s stone foundations. The Antoine Wall was a Roman turf fortification. Built between the Firth of Forth and the Firth of Clyde, forming the north-western frontier of the Roman Empire. Dating from the 2nd century, this is a remarkable bit of history from the Imperial Roman period. You can also visit the remains of a Roman Bath House in Bearsden, part of the original fort.

Luss Parish Church

In a churchyard in the town of Luss, just across the water from us here at Loch Lomond Waterfront, sits an ancient memorial stone, decorated with ornate carvings. This is a grave marker representing a house for the dead. With a curved ridge and decorated with roof shingles on either side. Discovered in 1926 and restored in 2015, the Hogback Stone is believed to be of Viking origin and may date from the Viking invasion of Luss in 1263.

Glen Fruin

Visit the site of the Battle of Glen Fruin, where Clan Gregor fought Clan Colquhoun in 1603. The dispute arose over a cattle raid, in which the MacGregors (of Clan Gregor) stole hundreds of livestock from the Colquhouns, raided their houses and killed two men. The MacGregors won the battle, but they paid heavily for it. Until 1784, the clan chief and his chieftains were executed and the whole clan was outlawed for over 150 years. A stone marks the spot of the battle, and the glen is a peaceful and scenic place for local walks. This area is part of the Three Lochs Way, a long-distance route that links Loch Lomond, Gare Loch and Loch Long.

Balquidder Kirk

The most famous member of the MacGregor clan was the notorious outlaw Rob Roy. He died in Balquidder in 1734 and his grave is in the old kirkyard. He is buried next to his wife and two sons. There is a path behind the kirk, which leads to the top of Kirkton Glen, which is a lovely scenic walk. There are many other locations in this area relating to Rob Roy’s life. Take a look at our guide to local Rob Roy sites and locations.

The Pineapple

The Pineapple is a building with a tower in the shape of .. you guessed it .. a pineapple! It was built in 1761, as a summerhouse for the Earl of Dunmore. In the 18th century, pineapples were extremely exotic and unusual fruits, which grew in the walled garden below. The grounds are open to the public, where you can get a close up view of the fruit-shaped building and explore the walled garden and surrounding woodland. Located near Stirling, about an hour’s drive from here.

This is just a taster of some of the unusual and interesting places from Scottish history, which you can visit on your stay at Loch Lomond Waterfront. So, book your luxury lodge today and get exploring!

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