The Village of Plockton
| Plockton, with a permanent population
of just over 300 people, is one of the prettiest villages in Scotland.
It nestles around Plockton Bay in Loch Carron. |
(Photo by Kathleen MacRae) |
It is one of the very few complete villages that
are wholly controlled by the National Trust of Scotland. This
ensures that any development is sympathetic to the overall 'look'
of the village.
But Plockton is anything but a postcard 'creation' - it is
a thriving, lively place with a bustling social life and a
warm sense of community.
See Plockton
Web for much more. |
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My grandson Sam is crewing the "Mary Anne" during the 2007 Regatta
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A highlight of the year for Plocktonions
from all over Britain is the annual Plockton Regatta, held
for a fortnight in late July-early August. Races are held daily and a great
time during and after the races is assured.
PSBSC (Plockton Small Boat Sailing Club) was inaugurated
in 1933 and goes from strength to strength.
Regatta starts every year on the Monday after the 4th Sunday
in July. This is to accommodate the Free Presbyterian Communion,
which, since time immemorial, has taken place from the Thursday
- Monday morning around the 4th Sunday in July. In 2007 the dates were Monday 23 July — Saturday 4 August.
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Despite what any sailor might tell you, Plockton enjoys a comparatively mild climate, due to the influence of the Gulf Stream, and yes, there ARE palm trees in the main street!
The village is not old by Scottish standards,
having been built in the late 1700's as a result of the "clearances" by the Earl of Seaforth.
It boasts 3 hotels, a newsagent, a post office, a well-stocked
shop, a take-away and coffee-shop. It doesn't have a policeman,
however! Eateries include
The are some lovely walks around Plockton. The shortest
is up to The Brae, the raised shelf above the village. From
the road, the views are fabulous and it is very peaceful.
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Highland cows are still quite common in the
Highlands.
They used to be commonly found in the Village, but are now
excluded. However, you'll see them close by.
Visit Craig Highland Farm to see lambs, and other farm animals
(great for the kids). Or just wander around the village of
Plockton itself, up past crofting fields, and marvel at the
views which, on a fine day are just breathtaking, before heading
back to one of the hotels for a warming dram and a bar meal.
Heaven!
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In spring and summer, it's great to hire
one of the variety of watercraft from Leisure
Marine, or take a boat trips to see seals which
laze on the rocks at the mouth of the bay.
Plockton was originally a fishing
village, and prawn fishing is still important. It's a popular
haven for cruising boats large and small too.
Tourism and accommodation is a big employer, because of the
beauty of the village and surrounding country. |
 Plockton Jetty in a beautiful dawn. Thanks to my brother Ian for this photo
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Local employers include the regional High School located
in Plockton, the Navy and the Highland Regional Council. There
are still crofters in the village and the district.
The Plockton Post Office is located at Rhu Cottage, which
is just next door to Heron's Flight.
Opening hours: 10am - 1pm Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday.
Email facilities are available at the Post Office and the
Library.
Are you convinced yet, as I am,
that Plockton is amongst the
most beautiful places on earth??
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