Nestled on the western shore of Loch Fyne, Inveraray is a picturesque town in the Scottish Highlands. It’s home to a spectacular castle and 19th-century prison museum, as well as restaurants serving up locally-sourced oysters and salmon.

Things to do

Explore the beautiful grounds and gardens of Inveraray Castle, where period rooms are decorated with 18th-century furnishings, armour and artworks. Wander around the formal lawns and seasonal flower beds, then sample Scottish cheeses and homemade cakes in the Castle Tearoom.

Experience the living museum of the Inveraray Jail, a 19th-century prison and courthouse with magnificent views of Loch Fyne. Witness a reenacted trial performed by costumed characters and step inside a cell to experience what life was like for 19th-century inmates, then explore the gruesome Torture, Death and Damnation exhibit.

A short drive from Inveraray is the beautifully preserved Scottish Highland farm township of Auchindrain that showcases the region’s rural heritage. Take a step back in time to see how people once lived and worked as you explore the restored longhouses, stables and byres where old farming tools and household objects are exhibited.

Seafood lovers can sample locally-sourced oysters, mussels and smoked salmon at the Oyster Bar. Dine on chef-prepared meals while overlooking Loch Lyne, then purchase environmentally-sustainable seafood in the adjacent Farm Shop.

Getting around

Inveraray is a 1.5-hour drive from Glasgow and 2.5 hours from Edinburgh, with buses travelling through the town en route to Oban. Inveraray can easily be explored on foot, but a car or bicycle is preferable for venturing further afield.