Inchmurrin

Inchmurrin is the largest freshwater island in the British Isles, lying in Loch Lomond in West Dunbartonshire. It is the most southerly of the loch’s islands and rises to 89 metres at its northern end. The island is mostly covered in woodland, with fine views northwards along the loch. It sits on the Highland boundary fault, alongside smaller islands such as Creinch and Inchcailloch. The shoreline is calm and wooded, giving the place a quiet, sheltered feel. The island has a long history tied to saints, kings and noble families. A 7th-century monastery once stood here, dedicated to Saint Mirin, who gave the island its name. Later it became a deer park for the Dukes of Montrose, who built a hunting lodge in 1793. Ruins of a castle recall Duncan, 8th Earl of Lennox, and the troubled times of Isabella, Countess of Lennox, who lived here after her family was executed. Rob Roy raided the island and once controlled all the boats on the loch to move stolen cattle. Visitors find self-catering flats, a cottage and a restaurant run by the Scott family, who have farmed the island for over 70 years. There is a bar and a naturist camp in the north-east corner. The grassy slopes and wooded paths hold memories of saints, kings and outlaws. The island’s quiet shores and open views make it a peaceful place to walk and reflect.