Things to do in the Dunoon & Cowal area

Cowal highland gathering
The biggest and most spectacular highland gathering in Scotland. With over 120 competing pipe bands from all over the planet, the world highland dancing championships, competitions in heavy athletics (yes, that’s where they toss the caber) and shinty it is a great and colourful spectacel for the whole family. Every year on the last weekend in August. (www.cowalgathering.co.uk)

Waverley Excursions
Once again, WaverleyExcursions.co.uk will be operating a full programme of cruises throughout the summer months, with the first cruise setting sail on Friday 14th April 2006. As I am sure you are aware, the Waverley is the last remaining, fully functioning paddle steamer in the world and has recently completed a £7million refit – returning the vessel to its original 1940s splendour. However, you may not be aware that the Waverley (and its sister ship, the Balmoral) are wholly-owned by the charitable Waverley Steam Navigation Company and can continue to operate and give pleasure through the support and many individuals and organisations.

If you require any additional information about our programme of activities, please visit our website or contact us directly via email, or by phone on 0845 130 4647.



Ben More Botanic Gardens
Situated on the A815, approximately 7 miles north Dunoon. The garden sits at the foot of the impressive mountain range of Ben More with the best views over the Holy Loch, Parts of Dunoon, Kilmun and the river Clyde. The 140 acres are covered by partly exotic trees and over 250 species of Rhododendron. Open between March and October, Café and Shop available, entry fee applies. (www.rbge.org.uk)

Castle House Museum
Dunoon’s landmark building, right above the Dunoon pier. The museum is accommodated in a rebuilt medieval castle in the middle of Castle Gardens. The displays include evidence of live in Cowal from its beginning in the stone age to the modern days with plenty of pictures, models, art, fully furnished theme rooms and others. Entry fee applies, opened Easter to October www.castlehousemuseum.org.uk

Deer Stalking with Winston Churchill
Either with a camera or a rifle, here’s an opportunity to get close to some of Scotland’s finest creatures under the supervision of a local expert who’s built up an understanding of these creatures and their ways. You’ll need to be fit to be up in the hills by daybreak, but the breathtaking scenery will make this well worth the effort. Winston’s headquarters are situated in Glen Lean, just outside Dunoon, so are within easy reach of ferry connections and Glasgow Airport.

Ben More Outdoor Centre
Activity centre for kids and teens. A team of instructors offer different courses to get some hands on experience in rock climbing, mountain biking, kayaking, canoeing, gorge walking and cave exploring. www.benmorecentre.co.uk

Dunoon Leisure Centre
The local leisure complex with 25m pool, kid’s pool, a free flume, a well equipped gym with qualified instructors, health suite with spa and sauna, and a café. Open daily (with restrictions), www.riversideleisure.com

Bowling Greens
Bowling Greens are available at the local Bowling Club in Kirn by Dunoon on Ardenslate Road, and Innellan.

Kilmun Arboretum
Established in the 1930s as a forestry research plot, now part of the Argyll Forest. 4 Beautiful and way marked paths along the Kilmun hill lead you through a collection of over 162 tree species. Great walks and great views over the Holy Loch. (www.forestry.gov.uk)

Quad Bike hire and outdoor adventure centre
Provider of a range of outdoor activities for adrenalin junkies, including quad bike hire, abseiling, shooting, kayaking, rib boat rides, archery and many others. Blairmore, by Dunoon. www.quadmaniascotland.co.uk

Velvet path trekking and riding centre
Beach and Forest Rides for experienced riders and pony trekking for beginners, riding courses and trail riding. Also offers child care for unaccompanied children plus riding for disabled people. Campbell Road, Innellan by Dunoon

Cowal Golf Course
On Ardenslate Road in Kirn, Dunoon. Great and challenging 19-hole course for beginners and experienced players with stunning views.

Dunoon Bird Garden
Between Dunoon and Sandbank. Displaying a variety of exotic birds such as parrots, geese and macaws. Petting zoo.