Explore Inveraray
Explore Inveraray – A Great Day Trip from Melfort Village
Inveraray is a picturesque lochside town in Argyll that makes for a fantastic day trip from Melfort Village. Established in 1745 by the Duke of Argyll, it’s one of Scotland’s best examples of a planned Georgian town, boasting charming whitewashed buildings against the scenic backdrop of Loch Fyne. Located about 43 miles (roughly 1 hr 20 minutes drive) from Melfort Village, the journey to Inveraray is a treat in itself – expect winding roads through hills and glens, with stunning views of Argyll’s countryside. Upon arrival, you’ll find rich history and plenty to do: from exploring an iconic castle and an old jail-turned-museum to enjoying waterfront views and family-friendly activities. Warm, welcoming, and steeped in Highland heritage, Inveraray offers a little something for everyone, all within easy reach of your base at Melfort. It’s no wonder this historic town is often recommended as a “must-see” day trip for visitors exploring Argyll and the west coast of Scotland.
Top Things to See and Do in Inveraray
Below are 9 of the top attractions and activities in Mid-Argyll, each an easy excursion from Melfort Village.
Inveraray Castle & Gardens
Inveraray Castle and Gardens – the iconic home of the Duke of Argyll.
Inveraray Castle is a grand neo-Gothic castle and the ancestral home of the Duke of Argyll, Chief of Clan Campbell. Its imposing turrets and battlements are visible for miles around, and inside you can tour lavish rooms like the State Dining Room and the Armoury Hall lined with historic weapons. The castle is surrounded by beautiful gardens and woodland. Energetic visitors can also tackle the Dùn na Cuaiche woodland walk – a trail behind the castle that climbs 250 m (800+ feet) to a lookout tower, rewarding you with spectacular views over the castle, town and Loch Fyne.
Inveraray Jail
Step back in time at Inveraray Jail, an award-winning museum housed in the town’s former 19th-century prison and courthouse. Costumed guides and live actors bring the experience to life – you can watch courtroom trials, chat with “prisoners” and the warder, and even briefly experience life behind bars. The exhibits graphically recount prison conditions from medieval times to the 1800s, giving a vivid insight into Scotland’s justice history. It’s an engaging attraction for all ages (kids love the interactive elements, and the actors).
Inveraray Jail also features an Escape Room game (min age 8yrs) for an added thrill, great for families with older children.
Auchindrain Township
Auchindrain is a fascinating open-air museum located just 6 miles southwest of Inveraray. It preserves the last inhabited Highland farming township, a kind of rural village that was once common across the Highlands. At Auchindrain you can wander among original thatched cottages and barns, imagining how crofters lived and worked here from the medieval period up until the 1960s. Informative signs and an exhibition tell the stories of the families who lived in this secluded community. It’s a peaceful, evocative site that offers a glimpse of Scotland’s rural past.
The George Hotel
Located in the heart of Inveraray, The George Hotel is a beloved Georgian coaching inn known for its rustic charm, real fires, and hearty Highland hospitality. Inside you’ll find several atmospheric dining rooms and bars with flagstone floors, open fireplaces, and cosy nooks — perfect for a relaxed lunch, dinner or a dram. The menu features locally sourced seafood, steaks, and traditional Scottish dishes, and the whisky list is one of the most extensive in the region. Live music often fills the bar in the evenings, especially at weekends. It’s a great base for lunch during your Inveraray visit or just to pop in for a drink.
Crarae Woodland Garden
A short drive south of Inveraray lies Crarae Garden, a hidden gem maintained by the National Trust for Scotland. Known as Scotland’s Himalayan-style woodland garden, it’s set along a dramatic gorge carved by the River Crarae, filled with rhododendrons, maples, azaleas and rare Himalayan plants. Winding paths and rustic bridges create a peaceful setting for a tranquil walk, especially in spring and early summer when the garden bursts with colour. The riverside setting and lush planting make it a photographer’s delight, and it’s suitable for all ages (with some gentle inclines).
Loch Fyne Oyster Bar & Deli
Just north of Inveraray at the head of the loch, the Loch Fyne Oyster Bar is a must-visit for seafood lovers. Founded on the site of the original Loch Fyne Oyster farm, it’s now a renowned restaurant and deli showcasing exceptional oysters, smoked salmon, langoustines, mussels and seasonal specials, all sourced from the surrounding waters. Enjoy loch views from the dining room or grab something tasty to take away from the deli. This is a perfect stop on your way to or from Inveraray for a true taste of Argyll’s coastal bounty.
Why you should visit...
Inveraray combines rich Highland heritage with stunning lochside scenery, all just an hour from Melfort Village. You can tour the grand castle, explore the interactive old jail, and stroll through beautifully preserved Georgian streets with views across Loch Fyne. It’s a town that offers something for everyone — from history and architecture to family-friendly attractions, scenic walks and great places to eat. Whether you’re after a cultural day out or a relaxing escape, Inveraray delivers it with charm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Driving from Melfort Village to Inveraray takes around 50 minutes to 1 hour by car, depending on route and traffic. The roughly 43-mile journey follows a scenic route through Argyll’s countryside. It’s an easy day trip – just head south toward Lochgilphead, then north on the A83 to Inveraray.
The top attractions include Inveraray Castle & Gardens (the iconic home of the Duke of Argyll with beautiful grounds), Inveraray Jail (a 19th-century prison museum with live actors), and the Inveraray Bell Tower (climb to see Loch Fyne views and its famous bells). Just outside town you have Auchindrain Township, an open-air folk museum. Don’t forget a stroll by the pier on Loch Fyne for photos of the town and perhaps a look at the historic ship moored there.
Inveraray can be enjoyed year-round for its scenery, but late spring to early autumn is ideal. From April to October, all major attractions are open – for example, Inveraray Castle is generally open to visitors April–October (closed in winter months), and Auchindrain Township opens in April through October as well. The Inveraray Jail is open year-round (usually daily, with reduced hours in winter). Summer offers the best weather and events (like Inveraray Highland Games in July), while spring brings lovely garden blooms (bluebells in May). In winter, the town is quieter – you can still admire the architecture and visit the jail or local shops, but the castle interior will be closed and daylight hours are short.
Yes! Inveraray is very family-friendly. Children love the entertaining tour at Inveraray Jail – the costumed “prisoners” and interactive exhibits make history fun. Inveraray Castle’s sprawling lawns are great for kids to run around, and there’s often an ice-cream van or small café on site. For active families, Argyll Adventure offers pony rides, paintball and more to keep older kids and teens happy. The town also has toilets, baby-changing facilities, and several casual eateries that welcome children. Overall, it’s a stress-free destination with plenty to keep youngsters engaged.
Absolutely. Inveraray has a good choice of pubs, cafés and restaurants for lunch or a snack. On Main Street you’ll find traditional inns like The George Hotel (famed for its local ales and hearty pub food) and cafés offering coffee, home baking and sandwiches. Fish and chips by the harbour is a popular option in good weather. If you’re a seafood lover, the famous Loch Fyne Oyster Bar is just 10 minutes up the road at the head of the loch – a great stop on your way back, known for its oysters, smoked salmon and other fresh seafood. Whether you fancy a quick bite or a sit-down meal, Inveraray will have something to satisfy you during your day out.