
Historic
Attractions in the Trossachs.
The Trossachs area has a huge amount of
history. Many events of a historical nature have occurred here.
Its most notable character without doubt was Rob Roy Macgregor
who still lives with us today in legend and of course we can
visit his grave in the area. Below we give you more details on
the places you might like to visit when in the area.
Rob
Roy Macgregor,
who
lived in the Trossachs area, was brought to prominence by Sir
Walter Scott many years after his death. That he was a
remarkable character there is no doubt. Today there is a film of
his exploits & many books have been written about him. Rob died
in his home in Balquhidder Glen in 1734. Rob Roy was laid to
rest in Balquhidder churchyard. Follow signs for Balquhidder
from the A84 just north of Strathyre.
Inchmahome Priory. On the largest of three islands on the Lake
of Menteith (Scotland's only lake). Many of the 13th Century
Augustinian monastery buildings still survive. It was here that
Mary Queen of Scots aged five, was hidden from the English after
the Battle of Pinkie. Short ferry journey from Port of Menteith.
Historic Scotland. Open summer only.

The Moss Lairds. The 35,000 acre swamp of the Flanders Moss was
impenetrable except for a few desperate outlaws & the MacGregors
who used secret tracks & causeways to escape back into the
Highlands after their Lowland raids. Learn how in 1768 the Moss
Lairds where given 38 year leases to clear the Moss. The
descriptive plaque is located in the centre of Thornhill. Park
at the Post Office and walk across to the far corner of the
playing fields, then follow the path for 30m to the plaque.

The famous pistol factory at Doune. In 1646 Thomas Caddell set
up business as a gunsmith. His pistols were bought eagerly by
the clansmen of the time for it was said that “...no pistol made
in Britain excelled or perhaps equaled those of his making
either for sureness or for beauty.” Today they fetch huge sums
of money when appearing on the open market. The old factory has
been restored with a plaque detailing its past. Located down an
alleyway from the main street in Doune.
Clan
MacLaren’s Gathering Point. In times past, Clan MacLaren
occupied these lands. When under threat, runners would be sent
throughout the clan’s territory to rally the clansmen with their
weapons to this point, known as ‘Creag an Tuirc’ (Rock of the
Boar). A short walk from Balquhidder Church and Rob Roy’s grave.
Stop at the Kingshouse Hotel for a free walk guide to find your
way. (Map Grid Ref : B1)

The Falls of Leny. A spectacular falls
with a superb vantage point overlooking them. The falls are in
the Pass of Leny, an ancient entrance to the Highlands. In times
past it must have been a forbidding place for armies looking to
pass through. Clearly sign posted off the A84 north of Callander
to car park and walks. Cross A84 to the path to the falls. (Map
Grid Ref: C1)

Colonel Sir David Stirling, DSO,
OBE - founder of the Special Air Service Regiment, 1941.
Raised here in Scotland, this 6ft 5in maverick designed the plan
for L-Detachment, SAS Brigade. By tricking his way into seeing
commander-in-chief General Auchinleck, he won approval. Working
behind enemy lines, L-Detachment was so successful that Hitler
ordered members killed on capture. His ethos of the pursuit of
excellence, self-discipline, humility and humour is the hallmark
of the present day SAS. 2 mls down B824 to Doune, from A9/M9
roundabout.
Moirlanich
Longhouse. This is your chance to visit a superb example of
the once traditional cruck frame cottage with its original
hanging ‘lum’ and box beds dating from the mid 19th Century.
Last inhabited in 1968 by the third generation of the Robertson
family. An adjacent building has a rare collection of working
and ‘Sunday best’ clothes. Open 2 to 5pm Wed & Sun. Easter & May
to Sept. An NTS property, manned by volunteers.

Breadalbane Folklore Centre, Killin: where
the river splashes over The Falls of Dochart. In this beautiful
old waterside mill you can trace the history of the clans, and
admire their treasures. Listen to the story of St Fillan, and
see his famous healing stones. ‘Living Legends’ presentations
from mid-June to mid-Sept. Gift Shop and Visitor Information.
Open: Every day (Easter to Oct.)
Tel:(01567) 820254 www.breadalbanefolklorecentre.com
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