Name: Auchindrain Township
Rating: 5.0

Auchindrain Township

Auchindrain, Furnace, Argyll and Bute, PA32 8WD, Scotland

1-90 Years

Paid

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Description

Auchindrain Township is a remarkably preserved settlement located near Inveraray, making it one of the best things to do with kids in Argyll. This open-air museum offers families a rare chance to walk through the last remaining Highland farming township, where the buildings stand exactly as they were left by the people who lived there. It is a fantastic spot for children to explore old stone longhouses and meet the farm animals that still roam the grounds.

Admission for a step back in time is reasonably priced, with adult tickets at £10.00 and children (ages 5-18) at £5.00. Families can save with a group ticket for £25.00. All visitors receive a tablet-based tour guide included in the price to help bring the stories of the township to life.

If you are looking for the best place for a day out with family and kids that blends fresh Highland air with real-world history, this is it. It provides an educational day out where kids can see how people lived without electricity or running water in a rugged, natural setting. From exploring soot-blackened rafters to feeding the chickens, it is a hands-on journey into Scotland's past.

Features

Paid
Host birthday parties: No

Features

Eddie’s House: A mid-20th-century longhouse that shows how modern comforts like wallpaper and stoves were integrated into ancient stone walls.
The Stone Byres: Stables and barns where you can see the clever ways farmers sheltered their cattle from the harsh Highland winters.
The Township Animals: Meet the resident sheep, chickens, and cats that keep the farm feeling alive and active.
Martin’s House: An older, more traditional dwelling that highlights the communal living style of early Highland families.
The Rhubarb Patch: A historic garden area where you can see the types of hardy crops that sustained the township for generations.
The Cruck-Frame Barn: A building that demonstrates ancient Scottish architectural techniques using curved timbers to support the roof.
The Weaver's House: Discover the tools used for spinning and weaving wool, essential tasks for survival in the glens.
The Restoration Lab: A new interactive space for 2026 where visitors can watch conservation experts repair 18th-century tools and furniture.

Facilities

The Visitor Centre: A modern hub housing the ticket desk, a small shop, and an introductory display.
Tea Room: Offers light refreshments, home baking, and hot drinks with indoor and outdoor seating.
Toilets & Baby Changing: Accessible facilities are located within the main Visitor Centre building.
Gift Shop: Sells locally made crafts, traditional Scottish books, and township-themed souvenirs.

What to see

Pro-Tips for Your Visit

Wear Sturdy Shoes: The township paths are original and can be uneven or muddy; wellies or walking boots are highly recommended.
Check the Weather: Most of the experience is outdoors or in unheated buildings, so bring waterproofs and warm layers.
Charge Your Tablet: The digital guide is essential for the full experience; ensure you grab one at the desk and ask for a quick tutorial.

What Visitors Love

Realism: Parents appreciate that the site feels "real" and unpolished, providing a much deeper connection to history than a typical museum.
The Digital Guide: The tablet tour is frequently praised for being engaging for both kids and adults without being overwhelming.
Animal Interaction: Children love seeing the cats and chickens wandering freely around the site.

What Visitors Don't Like

Accessibility: Because the paths are historic, they can be difficult for standard buggies or those with mobility issues.
Exposed Site: The location is quite open, meaning it can feel very cold and windy even on bright days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it worth it for toddlers?: While younger children will enjoy the animals and the space to run, the historical context and tablet guide are best suited for ages 5 and up. Parents with toddlers should bring an all-terrain buggy or a carrier due to the rough stone paths.
How long does a visit take?: A thorough exploration of the houses and the full tablet tour typically takes between 2 and 3 hours. This allows plenty of time to visit each building and stop at the tea room for a break.
Where is the best place to park?: The on-site car park at the Visitor Centre is the best option. It is free, situated right next to the entrance, and offers easy access to the township start point.
Cheap indoor activities in Argyll?: If the weather is poor, the Inveraray Jail offers a fantastic indoor historical experience nearby, or you can visit the Argyll Adventure centre for some covered horse riding and activities.

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Contact

Price

Price: Paid

Price Details

Adult: £10.00
Child/Concession (over 65)/Local Resident: £5.00
Family (2 adults + children under 18): £25.00

Pricing URL: https://www.auchindrain.org.uk/buy-tickets/

Birthday Parties

Offer Birthday Parties: No

Spring/Summer (April - October): Daily, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
Winter (November - March): Limited hours; check the website before traveling.

Address: Auchindrain, Furnace, Argyll and Bute, PA32 8WD, Scotland

Post Code: PA32 8WD

Council: Mid Argyll

County: Argyll and Bute

By Car: Located on the A83, 6 miles south of Inveraray. Free parking is available on-site for all visitors.
By Bus: The Scottish Citylink 926 and 976 services between Glasgow and Campbeltown/Oban stop at the township entrance.