The Village of Plockton

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 into and stay here.

See Plockton Web for much more.

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 2011 Regatta was on from Monday July 25 - Saturday August 6. This photo was taken at the start of the Long Distance Race. My grandson Sam is crewing in the boat with the yellow sails!

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 wee shop, a take-away and coffee-shop. It doesn't have a policeman, however! Eateries include

• Plockton Inn
• Plockton Hotel
• Plockton Shores, next to the Plockton Store
• a takeaway

There are some lovely walks around Plockton. The shortest is up to The Brae, the raised shelf above the village. From the road, the vistas 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 stroll around the village of Plockton itself, along the shore or beside crofting fields, and revel in the views which, on a fine day are just breathtaking, before heading back to one of the eating establishments for a great meal or a warming dram at one of the hotels.

Heaven!

In spring and summer, it's great to hire one of the variety of watercraft from Leisure Marine, or take a boat trip to see seals which usually laze on the rocks at the mouth of the bay.  See the bottom of this page for another photo of a beautiful grey seal.
This short trip is highly recommended - Calum, the skipper and owner, is one of the treasures of the village!

Plockton was originally a fishing village, and prawn fishing is still important. It's a popular haven for cruising boats large and small too, especially during the summer months.

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 (that includes a Piping School), 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.

A grey seal basks on a rock in Loch Carron - what a show-off...
Thanks to guests Malcolm and Ethel Hillier for this photo