Five thousand years ago many Scots lived in crannogs circular structures built out on to water for defensive purposes.
The Scottish Crannog Centre on Loch Tay has recreated the ancient dwelling, giving visitors a unique insight into life in Iron Age Scotland.
The centre usually opens in April and closes in late autumn, meaning tourists have never had the chance to see how ancient families would have coped with Scotland’s harsh winter. But that’s changing this year.
The Crannog Centre is one of a range of tourism businesses in and around the scenic Perthshire village of Kenmore which have teamed up in a bid to attract more visitors in what, historically, is low season for them.
WinterWeek+ which kicked off on Wednesday and runs until Sunday, February 27 promotes around 20 events and activities on and around beautiful Loch Tay.
The Crannog Centre is putting on a range of events including classes on Iron Age skills such as nettlecraft, woodwork, cooking, fire-lighting and spear-throwing.Photo gallery: Winterweek+ fun at the Scottish Crannog CentreOther activities include winter boat tours on Loch Tay, chocolate-making workshops and food-tasting events at the Mains of Taymouth Courtyard.
Director of the Scottish Crannog Centre Barrie Andrian said, “We’re delighted to be opening in winter this year as part of the WinterWeek+ celebrations.
“Kenmore is perfect for a mid-term or short winter break and, with many families and couples flocking to the area during winter, it seems to make sense to open our doors and ensure they see the best of Kenmore while they are here.”
For more information go to www.winterweek.co.uk
THINGS TO DO DURING WINTERWEEK:
Daily Scottish Crannog Centre tours: Enjoy a tour of the historical Iron Age crannog with hot drinks and Iron Age cake around the crannog fire. Opening hours 10am-4pm. To book call 01887 830583.
Legend Sailing Loch Tay cruises: Departures at 11.45am, 1.15pm, 2.45pm. Enjoy a one-hour trip in a heated cruise boat with a steaming cup of tea or coffee and get a 20% discount when combined with a crannog tour. Pick-up/drop-off at the Scottish Crannog Centre. To book call 01887 830583.
Sunday: Music in the crannog. Join the highly-acclaimed Loch Tay Steamers from 3.30pm-5pm for some foot-tapping music in the crannog around a cosy log fire with special crannog cake and hot cordial. Tickets £10 adults, £8 children. Discounts for combined crannog tour and music package. Booking is essential on 01887 830583.
Saturday, February 26: Taste some of Perthshire’s finest products from 12pm-4pm at Mains of Taymouth Courtyard. This event is free.
WHERE TO STAY DURING WINTERWEEK:
The Kenmore Hotel: Nestling on the banks of the River Tay, the hotel is famous for its warmth, charm, Highland hospitality and vivid history. Scotland’s oldest inn, dating back to 1572, it has survived through the centuries and will thrive for many years to come. Phone 01887 830205 or visit www.kenmorehotel.com
WHERE TO EAT DURING WINTERWEEK:Waterfront Restaurant: Located on the shores of Loch Tay at Kenmore, the restaurant is of a superb quality and tastefully designed to fit into the historic setting beside the walled garden which once served Taymouth Castle, and well placed to let diners admire the stunning views along the loch.