The origins of Tyndrum are thought to lie in the convergence of old drover routes, as well as lead mining. There was also a short gold rush in the area in the early nineteenth century. It was formerly a mining centre in the 1800s with a lead mine situated on the Sron nan Colan hill above the village. The remaining scar on the hill gives evidence to the extent of the mining. The tiny hamlet of Clifton (the row of cottages just off the A82 opposite the village centre) is the original cottages built to house the newly arrived miners. There are precious metals in the hills surrounding Tyndrum and a gold mine situated 2 miles to the south-west of Tyndrum at Coonish Farm. This was originally built in the 1980s, but economic conditions at the time meant the mine never became operational. However, given the huge increase in global commodity prices in recent years, an application was made in Oct 2011 to re-open the mine. Gold panning is allowed and proving increasingly popular in the local area. You can hire Gold panning equipment at By The Way if you want to try your luck in one of the local rivers. The development of the railway also brought further expansion to the village.
Today Tyndrum is an important transport hub with both the A82 and the West Highland Line branching off to other parts of Scotland. The West Highland way also passes through Tyndrum and is popular with tens of thousands of walkers who travel the route every year. Tyndrum is also the smallest settlement in the UK with more than one railway station.
Activities
Ben Oss and Beinn Dubhchraig
Ben Oss and Beinn Dubhcraig are satellites of mighty Ben Lui. Although the mountains themselves are not particularly distinguished, the approach walk leads through natural pine and birch forest and is very picturesque, though also very wet.
Terrain – Extremely boggy path on the approach. Higher up the going is drier; the ridges are broad but rocky and undulating and with some crags- confusing terrain in poor visibility.
West Highland Way
Tyndrum to Inveroran – This is a shorter and easier stage; staying on the glen floor after the initial climb from Tyndrum, together with the road and railway, to reach the Bridge of Orchy, with fine views of the steep grassy mountains along the way. From there the route climbs through the woods to cross a low ridge before descending to the lonely hotel at Inveroran.
Terrain – Easy walking through the Glens to Bridge of Orchy, then a short climb over a low ridge.
Oban
A small town approx. 36 miles from Tyndrum. A scenic train journey from Tyndrum, or 50 mins by car. Attractions include The Oban Distillery, Dunstaffnage Castle, Dunollie CastleCathedral of St Columba and McCaigs Tower.
Ice Factor (Kinlochleven)
37 miles from Tyndrum, Ice Factor is home to the largest indoor ice climbing wall in the world. The facility also offers rock climbing, Aerial Adventures with a course circuit of 250m, and mountaineering courses with expert instructors.
Eating Out
The Real Food Cafe – 01838 400235
The Tyndrum Inn – 01838 400219
Drovers Inn and Pub – 01301704234
Artisan Cafe – 01838 400391
Bridge of Orchy Hotel – 01838 400208
Ardlui Hotel & Restaurant – 01301 704243
Scoffers Fish &Chips – 07901 274281
The Green Welly Stop – 01838 400271