Park History Highlights
History Highlights in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs
This guide will take you on a whirlwind trip to Loch Lomond & The Trossachs, discovering its extraordinary history and heritage. The National Park was formed in 2002, but this area has centuries of fascinating stories to tell. We will jump backwards and forwards in time, providing links to other guides on this website where you can find more detailed information. The picture above was taken during a heritage event to commemorate the 160th anniversary of the Loch Katrine waterworks by Queen Victoria, which you can read about later in this article.
To find out more about interesting statistics for Loch Lomond and the Trossachs, do check our facts and figures guide, from it you will get a good overview of the park's nature, coverage, and natural wonders.
Roderick Dhu Viewpoint, Loch Katrine
Loch Katrine: The Birthplace of Scottish Tourism
In the heart of the Trossachs, Loch Katrine is a hub of history and is credited as the birthplace of Scottish tourism. The region’s dramatic landscapes, rich literary connections, and Victorian engineering marvels have long drawn visitors from around the globe.
Sir Walter Scott’s Literary Inspiration
Loch Katrine owes much of its fame to Sir Walter Scott, one of Scotland’s most celebrated writers. In 1810, Scott published The Lady of the Lake, a narrative poem inspired by the loch’s breathtaking beauty. From an elevated vantage point above Loch Katrine, Scott captured the spirit of the landscape with vivid imagery and storytelling. His work became a literary phenomenon, attracting admirers eager to witness the scenery that inspired him.
Scott’s poem shaped how people perceived the Highlands and sparked an early wave of tourism. Visitors began travelling to Loch Katrine to experience the wild beauty described in his work, solidifying its place as a must-visit destination.
The New Vantage Point at Loch Katrine
In the summer of 2024, Loch Katrine welcomed a new attraction that connects visitors with its literary heritage. A newly opened pathway now leads from Trossachs Pier to an elevated vantage point where Sir Walter Scott was inspired to write The Lady of the Lake.
This scenic viewpoint offers panoramic views of Loch Katrine and the surrounding hills, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the landscapes that captivated Scott. The new trail is designed to enhance accessibility while preserving the natural environment, making it a perfect destination for history enthusiasts, literature lovers, and nature seekers alike. Click the link below for our guide to visiting the new scenic tower at Loch Katrine.
Rob Roy MacGregor
While 'The Lady of the Lake' had a considerable impact, renowned artists and painters of the day were already visiting Loch Katrine to capture the dramatic landscapes. Scott was fascinated by the notorious outlaw Rob Roy MacGregor, born in 1671 by the loch; his tales were told in a novel to be published later by Scott.
Loch Katrine Steamships
Loch Katrine has long been a gateway to Scotland’s cultural and natural treasures, and its historic steamships are central to this legacy. As we look ahead to 2025, the landmark 125th anniversary of the Steamship Sir Walter Scott the loch celebrates a timeless connection to the Victorian era and the birth of Scottish tourism.
Sir Walter Scott’s life and work remain widely celebrated across Scotland and is symbolised by the historic steamship that bears his name.
Built in 1899, the Sir Walter Scott Steamship has carried countless passengers across Loch Katrine’s serene waters. After an £850,000 restoration, it triumphantly returned to service in summer 2023, offering daily cruises alongside The Lady of the Lake. T
The predecessors of Steamship Sir Walter Scott were the Rob Roy and Rob Roy II, early steamships that helped establish Loch Katrine as a hub for Victorian tourism.
The Golden Age of Steam
The Victorian era was a transformative time for Loch Katrine and the surrounding Trossachs. The expansion of railways brought tourists from across the UK to stations in Aberfoyle and Callander, where they could begin their Trossachs adventure. The area became a centre for scenic journeys, combining railway travel, horse-drawn carts, and steamships.
The famous Trossachs Tour was an unforgettable multi-modal experience. Visitors would travel across Loch Katrine, Loch Lomond, and Loch Long, marvelling at the majestic scenery and the innovative transportation methods of the time.
While the railways no longer serve these routes, the legacy of Victorian tourism remains. The former train lines have been transformed into picturesque cycle paths, including the NCN7 route, allowing adventures by bike.
You can combine a cruise and a cycling adventure at Loch Katrine, and if interested about the stories of Steamship you will find an interactive exhibition at Trossachs Pier.
Stronachlachar
Queen Victoria visits Loch Katrine
The opening of the Glasgow water supply system at Loch Katrine by Queen Victoria in 1859 marked a transformative moment in the city’s history. Designed to combat the devastating effects of cholera outbreaks and provide clean, reliable water to Glasgow’s growing population, the Loch Katrine Aqueduct was a marvel of Victorian engineering. The aqueduct system, conceived by engineer John F. Bateman, used gravity to carry water over 26 miles through tunnels and bridges to the city, ensuring a steady and sustainable flow. This groundbreaking infrastructure replaced the city’s reliance on wells and streams, often contaminated and hazardous to health.
Queen Victoria’s visit to Loch Katrine for the grand opening underscored the importance of the project. Arriving aboard the steamship Rob Roy on October 14, 1859, she officially inaugurated the waterworks by opening a sluice with a silver handle. This symbolic gesture signalled a new era for Glasgow. Thousands gathered despite the inclement weather to witness the event, including many workers who had toiled to construct the aqueduct. In her speech, the Queen praised the ingenuity and foresight of Glasgow’s leaders, recognising the waterworks as a vital improvement for the health and prosperity of the city’s people.
The impact of the Loch Katrine water supply system on Glasgow cannot be overstated. By providing clean water to a rapidly industrialising city, the aqueduct helped to improve public health and hygiene, reducing the prevalence of waterborne diseases. It also supported Glasgow’s emergence as a significant industrial and cultural hub, with the system continuing to serve the region today.
You can discover more about this fascinating story at Trossachs Pier, Stronachlachar Pier, and live commentary on cruises on Loch Katrine.
Discover History at and near Loch Katrine
Cycle on the former railway lines, now NCN7 – Read More
Sail on historic Steamship named after Sir Walter Scott – Read More
Walk or cycle to Brenachoile Point to stand in the footsteps of the artists who were drawn to Loch Katrine – Read More
Find out why Queen Victoria visited in 1859 - Read More
Visit some of the places that feature in the story of Rob Roy MacGregor – Read More
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Ruskin Point, Glen Finglas, The Trossachs
Glen Finglas Scandal
Glen Finglas is known for its serene beauty, but it became the backdrop for a dramatic and very public scandal in Victorian times. In 1853, a celebrated Pre-Raphaelite painter, John Millais was commissioned to paint a portrait of John Ruskin, one of the era’s most influential art critics. The picture captured Ruskin’s intellectual depth and his passion for nature, set against the breathtaking falls of Glen Finglas. However, not just the landscape left a lasting impression on Millais during his stay.
Effie Gray, Ruskin’s wife, accompanied the men to Glen Finglas, spending her days reading and sketching while they worked on the portrait. Over time, Millais and Effie developed a deep connection that would lead to one of the most scandalous love triangles of the Victorian era. Effie’s marriage to Ruskin had been fraught with difficulties. Despite being married for seven years, their union had never been consummated—a fact Effie attributed to Ruskin’s alleged impotence, which he vehemently denied. Ultimately, Effie sought an annulment, citing her husband’s inability or unwillingness to fulfil his marital obligations.
The annulment was granted, causing an uproar in Victorian society, where such topics were considered taboo. Shortly after, Effie married Millais, and the couple enjoyed a happy and prolific life together. The scandal, however, cast a shadow over Ruskin’s career and personal life, with the portrait at Glen Finglas forever linked to this tumultuous chapter. Today, the painting and its story are a poignant reminder of the complex intersections between art, nature, and human relationships in the Victorian age. Glen Finglas remains a symbol of this dramatic tale, its natural beauty a timeless witness to one of art history’s most controversial love stories.
Inchmahome Priory, Lake of Menteith
Scotland’s Only Lake: The Fascinating Tale of the Lake of Menteith
The Lake of Menteith stands out in Scotland for its tranquil beauty and as the nation’s only body of water, officially called a “lake” rather than a “loch.” This distinction arose in the 19th century when “lake” was substituted for “loch” in certain publications to make the text more accessible to English readers. The name stuck, and when the area was officially mapped in 1838, it became the Lake of Menteith, forever setting it apart from Scotland’s many lochs.
Inchmahome Priory: A Historic Island Haven
At the heart of the Lake of Menteith lies Inchmahome Island, home to the ruins of Inchmahome Priory. Founded in 1238, this monastery has welcomed notable visitors, including Robert the Bruce and the young Mary, Queen of Scots, who sought refuge there in 1547 during turbulent times. The island’s serene beauty and historical significance have captivated writers and poets, most notably Sir Walter Scott, who included Inchmahome in his works about the Trossachs. These writings helped elevate the priory’s profile, drawing visitors eager to explore its storied past.
Today, Inchmahome Island is managed by Historic Environment Scotland and you can visit by an on-demand ferry.
Reverend Robert Kirk and the Mysteries of Doon Hill
Just a short distance away in Aberfoyle, another intriguing story unfolds, blending history with folklore. Reverend Robert Kirk, the minister of Aberfoyle in the late 17th century, is best known for his book The Secret Commonwealth, in which he detailed the hidden world of faeries and other supernatural beings. Kirk’s fascination with these mystical creatures allegedly led to his dramatic demise in 1692.
Local legend claims that the faeries, angered by Kirk revealing their secrets, captured his spirit and imprisoned it in a tree on Doon Hill, now known as the “Faerie Hill.” Visitors to the site can walk a winding path through the woods to the hilltop, where offerings tied to the trees testify to the enduring allure of Kirk’s story. This fusion of history and myth adds another layer of enchantment to the area, making it a must-visit for those intrigued by Scotland’s mysterious and magical heritage.
Discover Trossachs legend and history
Loch Lomond Heritage
The picturesque village of Drymen, often called the “Gateway to East Loch Lomond,” is steeped in fascinating history and charm. Located at the southeastern edge of the loch, Drymen offers visitors a unique glimpse into its storied past through the Heritage Trail. This thoughtfully designed route begins at the village square and takes walkers on a journey through time, revealing the rich tapestry of Drymen’s historical landmarks and local tales.
One of the highlights of Drymen’s heritage is the history of its buildings, each with its own story. Residents share intriguing anecdotes about former uses along the trail, from coaching inns to old marketplaces. Among the most compelling stops is the ruins of Buchanan Castle, a grand 19th-century mansion steeped in historical significance. Built as a home for the Buchanan family, the castle later played an unexpected role during World War II. It became a temporary prison for the high-ranking Nazi official Rudolf Hess after his mysterious solo flight to Scotland in 1941.
While Buchanan Castle is now a ruin, its haunting beauty and fascinating wartime connections make it a compelling stop for history enthusiasts. Combined with the scenic views and local stories woven throughout Drymen’s Heritage Trail, the village offers an enriching introduction to the cultural and historical treasures of Loch Lomond. Whether you’re drawn by its wartime intrigue, vibrant community stories, or idyllic setting, Drymen serves as a captivating gateway to the wonders of Loch Lomond.
Tom Weir Statue: Celebrating a National Treasure
Nestled along the shores of Loch Lomond in Balmaha stands the Tom Weir Statue, a tribute to one of Scotland’s most beloved figures. Known for his Weir’s Way television series, Tom Weir inspired countless Scots to explore the breathtaking landscapes of their homeland. A mountaineer, naturalist, and broadcaster, his passion for Scotland’s outdoors resonated with audiences far and wide. The statue, unveiled in 2014, depicts Weir in his signature bobble hat, seated with a walking stick, ready for his next adventure. It’s a fitting homage to a man who brought the beauty of Scotland into so many homes and encouraged exploration and appreciation of the nation’s natural wonders.
Ardess Hidden History Trail: Uncovering Life by Ben Lomond
At Rowardennan, near the base of Ben Lomond, the Ardess Hidden History Trail offers a fascinating glimpse into life in the early 19th century. This well-marked path winds through the remnants of ancient settlements, allowing visitors to uncover stories of those who lived and worked in this rugged landscape. From farmsteads to field boundaries, the trail reveals how its inhabitants cultivated and shaped the land. Interpretive signs along the way provide insights into the daily lives of these communities, offering a unique perspective on the cultural heritage of Loch Lomond.
Loch Lomond Clans: Legacy and Landscapes
The islands of Loch Lomond, visible from the summit of Ben Lomond, are steeped in history, many bearing ties to Scotland’s ancient clans. These islands, scattered across the loch’s expanse, were once strongholds and gathering places for families whose names are woven into the fabric of Scottish history. Across the loch near Luss lies Rossdhu House, a striking Georgian mansion and the ancestral seat of the Colquhoun Clan. Today, Rossdhu House serves as the clubhouse for the prestigious Loch Lomond Golf Club, blending centuries of heritage with modern luxury.
Rossdhu House, near Luss
The Maid of the Loch: Loch Lomond’s Last Paddle Steamer
At Balloch, the Maid of the Loch, Loch Lomond’s last paddle steamer, reminds of a bygone era. Built in 1953, the Maid of the Loch carried passengers across the loch, offering them a chance to experience its beauty from the water. Although she retired from service in 1981, the steamer has been lovingly rescued and is undergoing a painstaking restoration, thanks to the dedication of a team of passionate volunteers.
They aim to see the Maid of the Loch sailing again, allowing future generations to experience the loch as visitors did during the golden age of steam travel. In the meantime, visitors can board the restored vessel at Balloch and explore its rich history through exhibitions and guided tours, providing a glimpse into the steamer’s storied past and hopeful future.
The Loch Lomond Song: A World-Famous Anthem
Loch Lomond is celebrated for its stunning scenery and its famous song, The Bonnie Banks o’ Loch Lomond. Known worldwide, the song’s poignant lyrics tell the tale of love, longing, and loss, set against the backdrop of the loch’s enchanting landscapes. Its refrain, “You’ll take the high road, and I’ll take the low road,” has captured the hearts of listeners across generations.
Whether sung at Scottish gatherings, weddings, or international events, the song remains an enduring symbol of Scotland’s cultural heritage, evoking the beauty and emotional resonance of Loch Lomond. Its melody and message connect people to the loch, reminding them of its timeless allure.
Soak up Loch Lomond's History: Read These Guides
Enjoy the Drymen Heritage Trail - Read More
Or the Ardress Hidden History Trail – Read More
Visit Weir's Rest and learn about the much-loved Tom Weir – Read More
Support the Maid of the Loch restoration and see the ship – Read More
Discover Clan history in Loch Lomond and its islands – Read More
Sing 'By yon Bonnie Banks' – Read More
Rest and Be Thankful
Argyll Forest History: A Landscape of Stories
The Argyll Forest area is steeped in history, blending natural beauty with fascinating tales of human activity. One of the most iconic landmarks is the Rest and Be Thankful Road, a stunning mountain pass with dramatic hairpin bends. In the 1930s, this route became a testing ground for motor enthusiasts and racers, who challenged both their vehicles and their nerves on the winding ascent. Today, Glasgow’s Riverside Transport Museum pays tribute to this unique road, preserving its legacy as an emblem of Scotland’s motoring history.
Lauder Memorial: A Tribute to Love and Loss
Not far from Argyll Forest lies a touching memorial to Captain John Lauder, the son of famed entertainer Sir Harry Lauder. Harry Lauder, a Scottish music hall legend and the first British artist to sell a million records, owned an estate nearby. The memorial commemorates his son, who tragically lost his life during the First World War. The monument is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during the war and the enduring grief of those left behind. Sir Harry channeled his sorrow into philanthropic efforts, becoming an advocate for veterans and their families.
Carrick Castle: A Medieval Stronghold
At the entrance to Loch Goil stands Carrick Castle, a medieval fortress with a rich and turbulent history. Originally built in the 1200s, the castle has seen its share of destruction and rebuilding during centuries of conflict. Though it is now privately owned and closed to the public, its imposing presence continues to captivate visitors to the small surrounding community. The sight of the castle, set against the dramatic backdrop of the loch and rugged hills, offers a glimpse into Scotland’s storied past and the enduring allure of its historical landmarks.
Carrick Castle, Loch Goil
Blairmore: A Victorian Gem on Loch Long
The picturesque village of Blairmore, situated on the eastern shores of Loch Long, blossomed during the Victorian era as a popular destination for those seeking respite from city life. Its development was closely tied to its pier, which welcomed steamers that carried visitors to and from Glasgow. Among these vessels was The Waverley, a paddle steamer that remains a beloved symbol of Scotland’s maritime heritage. Today, The Waverley calls at Blairmore a few times each year, offering passengers a nostalgic journey up Loch Long and a chance to relive the golden age of steam travel.
Loch Long: A Legacy of Industry and Defence
Loch Long’s history extends beyond tourism to its role in Scotland’s military heritage. In 1912, the loch became a testing ground for torpedoes, an innovative advancement. With the advent of the UK’s nuclear submarine program, Loch Long and neighbouring lochs became vital locations for military infrastructure. The presence of bases and support facilities underscores the strategic importance of this area, blending its natural beauty with a legacy of technological and naval development that continues to this day.
Kilmun: A Historic Haven on Holy Loch
Further along, Holy Loch lies Kilmun, a once-popular stop for steamers bringing Glaswegians eager to escape the bustle of the city. This quaint village is home to a historic churchyard and the Mausoleum of the Dukes of Argyll, providing a fascinating insight into the area’s aristocratic and religious history. Kilmun’s serene surroundings and rich heritage make it a reflective stop for those exploring the lochs, offering a tranquil connection to Scotland’s past amidst its natural beauty.
Discover Argyll History
Read more about the places mentioned here and use our guides to Rest and Be Thankful, Loch Long, Lauder Memorial, Blairmore and Kilmun to help you plan a visit.
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Breadalbane History
We end at the northern end of the National Park and Rob Roy country, Balquhidder is the outlaw's resting place, and you can visit his grave. The Falls of Falloch, a beautiful waterfall known as 'Rob Roy's Bathtub', for his visits there.
BLISS Trail
‘The 'BLiSS Trail' is worth following as it will take you to some landmarks and objects of interest in Balquhidder, Lochearnhead, Strathyre and St Fillans.
Falls of Falloch
Thanks for reading
Words and photography by Paul Saunders. Visit Paul’s Marketing and Photography websites for details of his services in Scotland.
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