Situated on the shore of Loch Fyne and at
the southern end of the Crinan Canal, Ardrishaig grew from its tiny beginnings
largely as a result of the canal, which provided a short cut to the Western Isles, removing
the need for an arduous journey around the Kintyre Peninsula with all the
hazards inherent in the seas off the Mull of Kintyre. Ardrishaig was once famous for its Loch Fyne
kippers, but the cessation of the herring fishing industry in the port sent it
into a decline, while most of the activity moved to neighbouring
Lochgilphead. However, the harbour has
an important role to play in the timber trade, with the capacity to handle tens
of thousands of tonnes annually.
Visitors can enjoy a range of activities: a gentle walk along the canal
maybe, or a spot of boating or kayaking courtesy of Argyll Activities. The gothic style Ardrishaig Parish Church, which dates from
1860, is worth a wander round, with its semi-octagonal transepts, its tower
with an octagonal castellated stage, and its Edwardian Art Nouveau stained
glass windows.
Map of the area.
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| Old puffer in canal basin at Ardrishaig. Photo by John Ferguson, via Wikimedia Commons |
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