Enjoying Summer in Inveraray: A Perfect Getaway

nicolageorgehotel
Jul 2
5 min read

Updated: Jul 20

Summer has arrived on the west coast of Scotland. Warm days stretch into golden evenings. There’s now ample time to savor everything this wonderful season has to offer.

With school holidays upon us and a whiff of warmth in the air, it’s high time to decamp to Inveraray. It is the perfect choice for picnics, paddles, and disconnecting from daily routines.

Inveraray is home to some remarkable attractions. Inveraray Castle, the historic Jail, and Auchindrain Museum draw thousands to our wee town each summer. However, this list looks beyond the ticketed highlights. It focuses instead on free (mostly) and completely outdoor ways to spend a long summer day here. Bring comfy shoes, a sense of adventure, and maybe a towel.

1. Explore Inveraray Castle Gardens and Estate

The Duke’s back garden is not to be overlooked. Take a gentle ramble among roses and rhododendrons, perhaps with a peacock for company. This setting is ideal for polite picnics, hide-and-seek, or pretending you’re in a period drama.

Did you know? The gardens were designed in the 18th century by celebrated landscape architect Roger Morris.

2. River Aray Walks

Follow the River Aray upstream until the mobile signal vanishes. All that remains is the enchanting sound of birdsong.

3. Historic Cemetery Exploration

Yes, really. Our cemeteries are gothic, fascinating, and beautifully situated. It’s a perfect setting for a slow meander through local history.

4. Beachcombing with Your Dog

Wander the pebbly shores of Loch Fyne and see what the tide has brought in—like sea glass, driftwood, and shells. It's a great excuse for a lochside stroll.

Interesting fact: Loch Fyne is the longest sea loch in Scotland, stretching over 40 miles.

5. Lochside Picnic Spots

A well-packed hamper, a patch of grass, and a beautiful view are all you need. Loch Fyne's shoreline has endless spots for a scenic spread.

6. Dun na Cuaiche Woodland Walk

This delightful hill walk leads to a beautiful folly and a comfy bench. The views at the top are worth the effort. That climb works up an appetite for cake afterwards. For more ambles in the area, check out short-distance trails near Kilmartin.

7. Auchindrain Outdoor Museum Free Open Day (20 July)

An intriguing living time capsule of Highland life awaits you, complete with thatched roofs and maybe even a black pudding demonstration. Entry is free on 20 July, a perfect time to bring the kids and spend the day.

Did you know? Auchindrain was still a working township until the 1960s—the last of its kind in Scotland.

8. Cold Dips in Loch Fyne

For the cold-dippers out there, we have some incredible spots throughout the town. Inveraray is surrounded by some of the cleanest seawater you will find. You're just steps away from our pub, garden bar, or sunny terrace—take your pick!

Interesting fact: Loch Fyne’s exceptionally clean waters are world famous for its oysters, langoustine, and even lobster. In summer, the water reaches around 13 degrees Celsius, ideal for cold dipping—especially for beginners.

9. Crarae Garden Loop

Discover an unexpected paradise of Himalayan plants and mossy bridges. It’s just a short drive down the road, and it’s serene and stroller-friendly—perfect for a lovely wander.

Did you know? Crarae is one of Britain’s finest examples of a Himalayan woodland garden, established in 1912.

10. Climb the Inveraray Bell Tower

A short climb rewards you with a grand view over Inveraray. The bell tower offers a peaceful vantage point over the town and loch. Unless the bells are being rung, of course.

Did you know? The Inveraray Bell Tower, with its impressive peal, ranks among the most notable bell towers in the United Kingdom.

11. Lochside Wildlife Spotting

Take a quiet moment by the loch, and you might be rewarded with sights of herons, oystercatchers, and even the occasional seal.

Did you know? Loch Fyne translates as 'Loch Wine'.

12. Capture the Light

Bring a real camera and chase the famous Scottish light. The early morning mist on the loch, golden light on whitewashed walls, and dramatic skies over Inveraray are all stunning sights.

Did you know? Inveraray’s unusual combination of Georgian symmetry and dramatic Highland scenery has made it a favorite among landscape painters and film crews alike.

13. Explore Argyll Estate

When you wander near Inveraray Castle, you’ll discover more than just peacocks and picturesque paths. There’s a huge estate to explore, featuring various fascinating structures and ruins.

Did you know? Before refrigeration, ice houses like this one were essential for preserving food and cooling drinks—often stocked with frozen lochs or cut blocks of river ice.

14. Make a Wish at the Wishing Well

Tucked away in the woods behind Inveraray Castle lies a mysterious old wishing well. It’s not marked on many maps, but locals know where to go.

Can you find it? If you do, take a moment to make a wish!

15. Relax in the Garden Bar and Enjoy Free Entry Music Festivals

The George’s outdoor bar is just the ticket after a day of exploration. With your dog at your feet and the child off somewhere safe, grab a pint while enjoying world-class views. Don't miss our free entry, family-friendly festivals in the garden throughout summer. www.thegeorgehotel.co.uk/festivals

Interesting fact: The George’s garden bar, nestled on the shores of Loch Fyne, was voted National Outdoor Bar of the Year in 2021 and 2022!

16. Fishing at Inveraray's Old Pier

Inveraray’s handsome old pier has reopened, and it’s a fine place to spend a quiet hour with a fishing rod and a flask. There's no permit needed for sea lochs—just a little patience and perhaps a lucky hat. Mackerel, pollack, and occasional sea trout patrol these waters.

When you’re ready to sit down, we’ll be here. Whether it’s a burger and soft drinks in our sunny Garden Bar, oysters and champagne in our AA rosetted restaurant, or something peaty from our Whisky Bar (Whisky Bar of the Year 2025), we’ve got you covered!

Getting Here

Reaching Inveraray is easy. A regular, scenic Citylink bus runs from Glasgow, dropping you right in the town center. Whether arriving by car via the stunning Rest and Be Thankful, or catching a ferry via Dunoon, the journey is part of the adventure.

Once you arrive, there’s plenty of parking available. If you're feeling nautical, you can moor your boat right at Inveraray Pier.

No matter how you arrive, we look forward to welcoming you!