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, on the west coast mainland, near Skye. |
(Photo by Alain Dohet) |
The village is sheltered from the worst of
the weather, and the relatively warmer climate is created by the Gulf
Stream influence. That's why the famous Plockton palms can survive and
thrive- they're not native to the area but have been a much
loved and photographed part of the streetscape for many years now.
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 far from being a monument or
postcard 'creation' - it is a thriving lively place with a bustling
social life and a warm sense of community. It's growing too - the
Bankside development at the entrance to the village is proof that
families want to move and stay in the village.
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. The 2009 Regatta is on from Monday July 7 -
Saturday August 8.
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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
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There
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. The photo opposite shows Loch Achaidh
na h-Inich, a small beautiful little fresh water loch not far from the
village, near
Achnandarach.
Visit Craig Highland Farm to see lambs, and
other farm animals (great for all the family). Or just wander around
the
village of Plockton itself, beside crofting fields, and revel
in 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 usually 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.
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 Plockton Jetty in a beautiful dawn. Thanks to
my brother Ian for this
photo
 My part of Plockton. Thanks to my
sister-in-law Alison Hunter for this
photo
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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.
Tourism and accommodation is a big employer,
because of the beauty of the village and surrounding country.
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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