Tyndrum is situated in Strathfillan, at the southern edge of Rannoch Moor. Tyndrum is Taigh an Druim in Gaelic, which translates as the house on the ridge. The village is overshadowed by Ben Lui, a Scottish Munro (i.e. a mountain over 3000 feet).
Like many of the villages in the Trossachs National Park, Tyndrum is steeped in history. The village is built over a battlefield: in 1306 AD, clan MacDougall defeated Robert the Bruce and took from him the Brooch of Lorne. Tyndrum is also a former lead and gold mining centre, when it was known as the hamlet of Clifton and consisted of but a few mining cottages. The actual gold mine is now a visitors attraction, located 2 miles south-west of Tyndrum at Cononish Farm. Tyndrum also has 2 railway stations and 2 railway lines which arrived in the 1800s (and has been famous as the smallest settlement in Britain to be served by 2 railway lines).
The West Highland Way passes through Tyndrum before heading north towards Bridge of Orchy and Rannoch Moor on the old military road. In addition, Tyndrum also serves as a stop off point for the Coast to Coast Walk from Oban to St. Andrews. The village has a tourist information centre, the Green Welly Stop and a brightly coloured mini-market.
Tyndrum was formerly a mining centre for Gold. Scotgold is applying to have permission to reopen the mine 4kms to the west of Tyndrum but to date the National Park Authority has now passed the plans to go ahead with the the application.
From Tyndrum you can head north towards Glen Coe and Fort William, or you can choose to head West towards Oban.
Tyndrum has the following facilities
Tyndrum: Exploring the Hidden Gem of the Scottish Highlands
Tyndrum, a small village nestled in the heart of Scotland’s hillwalking country, is an intriguing destination for travellers seeking a picturesque and historically rich experience. Located five miles north of Crianlarich and surrounded by the stunning Glen Lochy landscape, Tyndrum offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure, natural beauty, and fascinating history.
Originally a mining centre, the hamlet of Clifton features a row of former mining cottages, along with the remnants of a lead mine. Exploited in several phases between 1730 and 1928, this mining history adds to the distinctive character of the village. Tyndrum has since evolved into an important transport hub, with the main A82 road dividing north of the village, and the West Highland railway line connecting various parts of the region. Additionally, the West Highland Way, popular among hikers, runs through Tyndrum, attracting tens of thousands of visitors each year.
Visitors to Tyndrum can also indulge in the local whisky scene, with The Green Welly Stop in Tyndrum serving as a purveyor of whisky since 1975 and housing an impressive collection of over 1,000 whiskies, wines, and spirits. With a blend of natural beauty, outdoor pursuits, and heritage, Tyndrum is a captivating destination for those exploring the Scottish Highlands.
Tyndrum’s History
Early Settlement
Tyndrum is a small village situated in the heart of the hillwalking country around Glen Lochy in Scotland. The area is historically significant due to the battlefield where Clan MacDougall defeated Robert the Bruce in 1306 CE and took the Brooch of Lorn from him. The village is located near the famous Tyndrum Hills, which include the prominent mountain, Ben Lui.
In the 18th century, Sir Robert Clifton discovered a rich lead mine at Tyndrum after taking a mining lease of the Earl of Breadalbane’s extensive estate in 1730. This discovery played a role in the development of the village.
Modern Developments
Today, Tyndrum is an important transport staging post in the region. The main A82 road divides just north of the village, with the A85 heading west to Oban, and the A82 heading for Fort William via Glen Coe. The village is also notable as a junction of transport routes, marked by the presence of a church built at Clifton in 1829 by Lady Glenorchy.
Located within Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, Tyndrum attracts tourists for its outdoor activities and the hillwalking opportunities in the Tyndrum Hills. With its rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and modern transport connections, Tyndrum continues to be a point of interest for visitors and locals alike.
Geography and Climate
Location
Tyndrum is a small village in Scotland. With its Gaelic name translating as “the house on the ridge”, it lies in Strathfillan at the southern edge of Rannoch Moor.
Topography
Tyndrum’s positioning at an elevation of None metres (0 feet) above sea level contributes to its unique climate. The landscape of the area is characterised by hills, moors, and picturesque valleys.
Weather Patterns
Tyndrum experiences a Marine west coast, cool summer climate (Classification: Cfc). The yearly average temperature is 8.34ºC (47.01ºF), which is slightly lower than the United Kingdom’s average. Precipitation in Tyndrum is generally higher, with an approximate average of 55.32 millimeters (2.18 inches) of rainfall per month.
Throughout the year, the temperature variation in Tyndrum is significant, with a difference of 11.3 °C (20.3 °F) between the driest and wettest months. The region can also experience varying levels of humidity, with more rainy days generally occurring during the wetter months.
Attractions and Activities
Outdoor Adventures
Tyndrum offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors, with its picturesque location in the heart of Glen Lochy in the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. Popular activities include:
Tyndrum Community Woodland: This well-signposted area offers an interesting amble through the woods, perfect for a leisurely walk or a more energetic hike. It is a popular destination for nature and wildlife lovers, with various hiking trails to explore.
Tours & Sightseeing: Tyndrum is the perfect starting point for day trips and excursions to explore the natural beauty of the surrounding areas. There are many tour operators offering cultural and themed experiences, as well as multi-day tours.
Historical Sites
Tyndrum boasts a rich history, providing visitors with an opportunity to delve into the past with some engaging historical sites:
St. Fillan’s Priory: The ruins of this priory date back to the 12th century and are situated in nearby Crianlarich. Once a significant religious site, it now offers an intriguing glimpse into the area’s medieval history.
Glen Coe: Just a short drive from Tyndrum, journey along the A82 to visit this famous historical site. Glen Coe is not only rich in natural beauty but also steeped in history, having borne witness to the infamous Glencoe Massacre of 1692.
Local Events
While Tyndrum may be a small village, it hosts several local events throughout the year, providing visitors with a chance to experience and engage with the community:
Tyndrum Highland Games: Held annually in July, these games showcase traditional Scottish sports such as caber tossing and tug-of-war, accompanied by music and dance performances.
Local Markets: Frequently held in the village, local markets provide a chance for visitors to purchase a variety of Scottish products, from arts and crafts to homemade food items. A great way to support local businesses and artisans.
Remember to keep an eye on the events calendar when planning your visit to Tyndrum, as these local events offer unique experiences for travellers.
Transport and Accessibility
Road Connections
Tyndrum is a significant transport hub in the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. The main road, the A82, divides just north of the village, allowing easy access to different parts of Scotland. The A85 heads west towards Oban, while the A82 continues north, leading to Fort William via Glen Coe. These connections provide travellers with various opportunities for exploration and the ability to enjoy the surrounding areas.
Public Transport
Tyndrum serves as an important transport hub with accessible links to many parts of Scotland via both bus and train. The West Highland line branches off the main train route, with two main stations in the area, Tyndrum Lower and Upper Tyndrum. Tyndrum Lower Station is a Category A station, offering step-free access to the single platform. Upper Tyndrum Station, however, is a Category C station and does not offer step-free access due to stairs and rough ground.
In terms of bus connections, Citylink provides services along the Glasgow to Oban route, passing through Tyndrum. The 975 and 976 routes run through various stops within the National Park. Additionally, Demand Responsive Transport (DRT) services are available in areas where regular bus routes are limited. DRT operates similarly to a taxi service, offering flexible transport options with fares comparable to regular bus fares.
Travellers can also benefit from the West Highland Way, a popular long-distance walking route that passes through Tyndrum. The tens of thousands who travel this route each year contribute to the village’s vibrant atmosphere and bustling tourism industry.
Accommodation and Dining
Hotels and Bed & Breakfasts
Tyndrum offers a variety of accommodation options for visitors. Some notable hotels in the area include:
The Green Welly Stop: Situated near Tyndrum Community Woodland, this hotel offers guests free Wi-Fi, parking, and access to the on-site restaurant.
Tyndrum Lodges: A popular choice for travellers, these lodges rank #2 out of 7 B&Bs/Inns in Tyndrum. Known for their excellent service, cleanliness, and mountain views, they provide free high-speed internet and private bathrooms in every room.
In addition to hotels, Tyndrum has several other accommodations such as the Tyndrum Holiday Park, which offers various self-catering options including Hiker Pods and Hot Tub S-Pods, perfect for those seeking a scenic and remote Highland experience.
Restaurants and Pubs
Tyndrum has a range of dining options to suit all tastes, though it may not have an extensive list of eating establishments.
The Real Food Café: A popular choice among locals and visitors, The Real Food Café offers a wide variety of meals made with locally sourced ingredients.
The Green Welly Stop: Located within the hotel, this on-site restaurant offers guests delicious options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The menu includes traditional Scottish dishes as well as international cuisine.
Paddy’s Bar & Grill: Known for its welcoming atmosphere, Paddy’s Bar & Grill is an ideal spot for a drink and a meal, featuring classic pub fare and a range of beverages.
The options for dining in Tyndrum may be limited, but you will find quality food and a friendly atmosphere in the available establishments.
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