The Crannog Centre near Kenmore opened its doors to visitors once again for the 2019 season on the 30th March. The centre, one of only 2 of its kind in the UK, is a significant and unique historical site featuring a reconstructed Crannog, an Iron Age dwelling built over water, in this case Loch Tay. Crannogs were found throughout Scotland and Ireland up until the 17th century and appear to have been built as individual homes for extended families to keep themselves and their livestock safe. The Centre is a well-preserved example built by The Scottish Trust for Underwater Archaeology. It was created to promote the research, recording, preservation and interpretation of Scotland’s underwater heritage, and has immense historical value. Artefacts found on the site have attracted world wide attention, including the discovery of what is thought to be a harp bridge from the Iron Age.
The Centre is a fantastic place for history lovers to experience life in the Iron Age. Here you can step inside a Scottish Crannog as it would have been when it was lived in, including weaving station, sleeping area, and livestock quarters. An expert guide is on hand to take you on a tour of the Crannog and provide you with information about its inhabitants, structure and history. There are a number of fantastic events taking place throughout the year, with hands on demonstrations of ancient crafts and techniques, from natural dying of fabrics, to tanning, and creating fabric from nettles. These events also include cooking demonstrations with an actual Iron Age stove, food made on site can be tried and tasted, with experts talking you through the process. For this year there will be tanning courses available for anyone interested in learning the craft.
For a full calendar of events check out the Crannog Centre Website
A gift shop and museum are also on site, and teas and coffees are available. Long boats are also available to be hired out if you fancy a trip on the Loch Iron Age style. An interesting, educational fascinating day out for the whole family giving a real glimpse into life as it was 5000 years ago. Well worth a visit.
