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| ...Campbeltown |
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Local History Feedback Nearby ... Oban .... the Gateway to the Isles and unofficial 'capital' of the Western Highlands. Iona .... perhaps the best known of all Scotland's islands, the cradle of the Celtic Kingdom of Scotland. Lismore .... the little island with a big history to tell! Mull .... the largest of the Inner Hebridean islands and a popular holiday destination. Maps ... For a wider look at this part of the west coast, load our Area Map Links ... Details of items mentioned in this page are available from the Tourist Office Scottish Tourist Board Scottish Towns |
his town, situated at the extreme South Eastern point of that mainland part of
Scotland known as Kintyre, was founded during King James VI period of
establishing towns in the more remote areas of Scotland in the hope of
civilising the natives. The fact that Campbeltown could once boast to
being home to some thirty distilleries would prove beyond doubt to many that
it has always been civilised!
he history of Campbeltown and its surrounding area is well documented in the
town's museum, including many exhibits from the pre-history period. Although
many people think Saint Columba to be the first Christian missionary to come
to the west coast of Scotland, it was Saint Kiaran who came before and it is
to his memory that Loch Kiaran is named.
The small group of islands in the Kilbrannan Sound off Campbeltown's shores contain many caves, one of which (Davaar Island) was where local artist Archibald MacKinnon painted the Crucifixion on a cave wall in 1887.
t was not until the late 17th century that the town became known as
Campbeltown (Campbell being the family name of the Argyll's), it having been
taken over earlier in that same century by the Earl of Argyll.
Boats and distilleries have long been associated with Campbeltown; at one time there were thirty distilleries here and a thriving herring fleet. Both the distilleries and the fishing fleets are now much reduced and the town is now an extremely popular holiday location. It's mild climate makes it a favourite location for those keen on angling, golfing and sailing. There are excellent facilities for visitors, including quality accommodation and some fine restaurants. |
| Last updated August 2000 |
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