Historic Attractions in the Trossachs area.
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, 
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 on Fridays and Mondays.
Gift Shop and Visitor Information. Open: Every day (Easter to Oct.) Tel:(01567) 820254 www.breadalbanefolklorecentre.com