Things to do when staying with us

When you stay with us at Thistle House there are many activities close by, however you may simply wish to kick back, relax and enjoy the breathtaking west coast scenery.

Inveraray:

The town features many interesting shops including Inveraray Woollen Mill and the Loch Fyne Whisky Shop. Moored in the harbour is the Arctic Penguin, a three-masted schooner that serves as a floating museum which relates to the traumatic conditions experienced and endured by transported convicts.

Sitting on the western shore of Loch Fyne is the dreamy little town of Inveraray. The picture postcard little is a classic example of the Scottish Georgian style of architecture.

Inveraray Castle is the home of the Duke of Argyll (head of Clan Campbell) and was built between 1741 and 1758. The castle has a chateau feel to it and inside has an excellent armoury hall as well as a shop, tea rooms and woodland walks.

Inveraray Jail (the living 19th century prison) is open all year round 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.

The Bell Tower contains Scotland's finest bells and is a mecca for campanologists worldwide. The Bell Tower, for those not interested in bell ringing offers amazing views of Loch Fyne and the town.

Inveraray Maritime Heritage Museum:

Voyage back in time aboard the Arctic Penguin. An unique maritime experience on one of the last iron sailing ships.
The Maritime Museum offers something for all ages: Enjoy the fascinating collection of Clyde Maritime displays, memorabilia, stunning archive film and entertaining hands-on activities gathered from far and wide on board our unique three masted schooner.

Auchindrain Museum:

Auchindrain Township and Folk Museum is situated five miles south of Inveraray on the A83. It is extraordinary attraction, which brings a historic "farming village" back to life. On entering the Museum visitors step back in time to witness how the local community lived, worked and played. The original village buildings are furnished and give a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the people who once lived and worked at Auchindrain.

Benmore Botanic Garden:

Benmore Botanic Garden is set on a magnificent mountainside on the Cowal Peninsula. It is an enchanting Garden steeped in history and surrounded by dramatic scenery. Benmore’s 120 acres boast over 300 species of rhododendron; Bhutanese and Chilean plantings and a spectacular avenue of Giant Redwoods.

Benmore Outdoor Centre:

Benmore provides an idyllic environment for those wanting the highest quality of instruction in a variety of outdoor activities for individuals, families or groups.

Winston Churchill:

Stalking offers the chance to explore the wildlife in one of the most beautiful parts of the Scottish Highlands with the benefit of experienced local guides.

We can accommodate the sportsman who is interested in Red deer or Roe deer stalking or the naturalist with his or her camera for a general nature ramble throughout this wonderful landscape and habitat.

Scenic Sea Cruises:

Fun boat trips are great for families, individuals and groups. The trips provide an opportunity to get outdoors to experience the scenery and seabirds, wildlife and of course the fun of a cruise exploring the beautiful and some would say overlooked world of the Firth of Clyde.

River Rocket:

River Rocket high speed adventure powerboat rides make for a thrilling, fun day out! The powerboat is safe and stable, taking in the sea loch scenery - including the shores of the Loch Lomond National Park is terrific, and the wildlife is rich and varied (seals, gannets and porpoise are common).

Of course in addition to these activities there are many forestry, coastal and mountain walks on our doorstep and many good restaurants such as the famous Loch Fyne Oyster restaurant and Invercottage.

See also Quadmania for information on quad biking.