Campbeltown, located on Scotland’s Kintyre Peninsula, is a hidden gem. Its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and various activities make it appealing to all. History lovers, photography fans, and whisky seekers will find something to enjoy. Let’s explore the best this charming town has to offer.
Discovering Campbeltown: A Brief History
Campbeltown’s history began in the early 17th century. The Earl of Argyll founded it as a burgh of barony. Originally named Kinlochkilkerran, it was later renamed after the Duke of Argyll’s family, the Campbells. Due to its strategic location and natural harbor, the town quickly became a key center for trade and fishing.
In the 19th century, Campbeltown’s whisky industry sparked a boom. At its height, the town had over 30 distilleries, earning the title “Whisky Capital of the World.” This prosperity brought wealth and development. It left a legacy in the town’s architecture and culture.
Landmark Highlights in Campbeltown
Campbeltown’s iconic landmark is the Campbeltown Cross. This medieval stone cross, carved beautifully, stands in the town center. **It dates back to the 14th century** and showcases the town’s rich heritage. It also serves as a stunning focal point for photos and exploration.
Another key site is the Campbeltown Picture House. It’s among Scotland’s oldest cinemas, built in 1913. Today, it blends Edwardian charm with modern facilities. Watching a film here offers a unique experience, transporting you back in time.
Visit the Campbeltown Heritage Centre to explore the town’s past. Located in an old church, it showcases local history, whisky, maritime heritage, and cultural growth.
Davaar Island
Another historical highlight is Davaar Island, accessible by a natural causeway during low tide. The island is home to the famous Cave Painting of Christ, discovered in 1887 by a local artist. The walk to the island and the cave itself makes for an adventurous and spiritually enriching experience.
The Linda McCartney Memorial Garden is another poignant historical site. Dedicated to the late musician and photographer, this serene garden is a tribute to her contributions to the local community. It’s a peaceful spot for reflection and remembering the rich cultural tapestry of Campbeltown.
This is a must visit if you are in Campbeltown. You can park nearby in the free layby and walk to the Island when it is low tide. There is a website that shows you clarly what state the tide is on the day you are there.
The Island can be walked around, but it is not a footpath walk and certainly not recommened if you are not physically fit. It is a rocky demanding walk of around 5kms from start to finish.
The cave painting is in the 4th or 5th cave as you walk to the right of the island. It is well worth a visit just to see this.
Exploring Campbeltown’s Whisky Distilleries
No visit to Campbeltown would be complete without exploring its renowned whisky distilleries. Springbank Distillery is a must-visit, being one of the oldest family-owned distilleries in Scotland. A tour of the distillery offers a fascinating insight into the traditional methods of whisky production, capped off with a tasting session of their exquisite single malts.
Glen Scotia Whisky
Glen Scotia Distillery is another gem, known for its distinctively rich and robust whiskies. The guided tours here provide a deep dive into the distillery’s rich history and unique production techniques, making it a memorable experience for whisky aficionados and novices alike.
Glen Scotia has received several prestigious awards in recent years, solidifying its position as a top-quality whisky producer:
- In 2021, Glen Scotia 25 Year Old was crowned “Best in Show” at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, competing against 3,800 entries.
- Also in 2021, Glen Scotia was named “Scottish Whisky Distillery of the Year” at the Scottish Whisky Awards.
- In 2022, Glen Scotia Victoriana won “Best in Class” in the Distillers’ Single Malt Scotch – No Age Statement category at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
- Most recently in 2023, Glen Scotia won “World’s Best Single Cask Single Malt” at the World Whiskies Awards for a 13-year-old single cask bottling distilled in 2009.
These accolades are particularly significant for Glen Scotia, as it’s one of the smallest distilleries in Scotland and represents the once-forgotten Campbeltown whisky region. The distillery’s success has helped put Campbeltown whiskies back on the map and revive interest in the region’s unique style.
Glen Scotia’s award-winning whiskies are known for their rich and complex flavor profiles, often featuring notes of tropical and baked fruits, subtle maritime influences, and a characteristic salty finish.
The distillery uses traditional whisky-making techniques, including slow fermentation and small-batch processes, which contribute to the distinctive character of their spirits.
Some of Glen Scotia’s notable expressions include:
- Glen Scotia 15 Year Old: Matured in first-fill bourbon and refill American oak casks.
- Glen Scotia 18 Year Old: Aged for 17 years in American oak barrels and finished for 1 year in Oloroso sherry casks.
- Glen Scotia 25 Year Old: The “Best in Show” winner, matured in American oak barrels.
These awards and recognitions demonstrate Glen Scotia’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship, helping to revive Campbeltown’s reputation as a significant whisky-producing region.
Don’t miss out on Kilkerran Distillery, also part of the historic whisky-making tradition in Campbeltown. The distillery offers a more intimate tour experience, allowing visitors to see the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into each bottle. And of course, you’ll have the opportunity to sample some of their award-winning whiskies.
Must-Visit Historical Sites
A visit to the ancient ruins of Kilkerran Castle is a must for history enthusiasts. Once a formidable fortress, these ruins now stand as a silent witness to Campbeltown’s medieval past. The site has stunning views of the landscape. It’s perfect for history buffs and nature lovers.
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