Places of Interest in and around Dunoon

Fyne Studios, Newton, Argyll
Artists Jean Bell and Don McNeil - Our work expresses the emotional aspect of the wild and rugged Scottish landscape along with the ever changing weather and dramatic lighting that is only in the West side of Scotland. We are proud to say that we are indebted to the Scottish Colourists and Joan Eardley.

Jean and Don also offer a most unique service – Brushstoke Memories – ideal as a wedding gift or family celebration gift – check out the details on their website!

Kilmartin House Museum, Kilmartin, Argyll
There are more than 350 ancient monuments within a six-mile radius of the village of Kilmartin, Argyll: 150 of them are prehistoric. This extraordinary concentration and diversity of monuments distinguishes the Kilmartin Glen as an area of outstanding archaeological importance. It is one of Scotland’s richest prehistoric landscapes. Kilmartin House Museum is an award winning world-class centre for archaeology and landscape interpretation established to protect, investigate and interpret this internationally important archaeological landscape and the artefacts that have been found here. At this unique and vibrant centre you can also see ‘The Valley of Ghosts’ audio-visual – a time travelling experience with breath taking imagery and haunting music

Millcroft Lavender, Millhouse, Tighnabruaich, Argyll
The most northerly producers of lavender in the U.K. our shrubs are all grown naturally out of doors. The prolonged growing time ensuring maximum concentration of the essential oils.  At Millcroft we run a small family business growing and selling lavender, flowers and herbs. We have also created a unique range of lavender scented products, the largest proportion of our products are handcrafted from scratch.

Inveraray Castle, Inveraray, Argyll
Inveraray Castle is first and foremost a family home. Its very existence reflects the part played by the Campbell family in the rich tapestry of Scottish History. The contents of Inveraray Castle span many generations of the Campbell family and will give you a glimpse of their heritage and the way their ancestors lived.

Benmore Botanical Gardens, Benmore, Dunoon, Argyll
In a magnificent mountainside setting on the Cowal Peninsula lies Benmore, 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.

Strachur Smiddy, The Clachan, Stachur, Argyll
The first recorded reference to the Smiddy was in 1791 and yet it’s contents remain virtually untouched after its closure leaving a valuable record for future generations. The Stachur Smiddy Trust was established in 1994 which led to the building being retored and providing a valuable insight into an important part of Scotland’s ruarl history.

Mount Stuart House, Isle of Bute, Argyll
Mount Stuart is Britain's most astounding Victorian gothic mansion. Home to the Stuarts of Bute, descendants of the Royal House of Stuart, this magnificent house sits proudly on the Isle of Bute - ancient stronghold of Scottish kings. The flamboyant house and its 300 acres of gardens reflect the artistic, religious and astrological interests of the 3rd Marquess of Bute.

Castle House Museum, Dunoon, Argyll
The Castle House Museum, which has been open since 1998, is one of Dunoon’s most historic locations. Dunoon became a holiday resort when Lord Provost Ewing of Glasgow bought the land around the ruined medieval castle and built himself a holiday home. This was in 1824 and many other wealthy businessmen followed his example.