Arisaig: Local History, Garden History and Boat Trips

Arisaig combines local history, historic garden design and experiences on the water. The historical themes and water-based activities offer different points of interest. You can tailor your time in Arisaig to what interests you most.

Culture and history in Arisaig

The Land, Sea and Islands Centre is Arisaig’s local history centre. It is housed in a converted former blacksmith’s forge, known as a “smiddy”. The name “smiddy” refers to the building’s former use as a forge; as a converted building, the centre itself is also connected to local architectural and social history. If you are interested in local history, the building’s former function and its role as a local history centre come together here. This focus differs from the garden and architectural history at the heart of Arisaig House.

Arisaig House: gardens and architecture

Another historical point of interest is Arisaig House. Its gardens are a good example of early 20th-century traditionalist garden design. Arisaig House was also the only Scottish country house designed by architect Philip Webb (1831–1915). These details highlight different aspects: the gardens represent a design tradition and era, while Webb is associated with the design of the house. This distinction is useful if you are more interested in garden art or architecture than in the local history centre.

Boat trips, the Small Isles and sea kayaking

There are several different experiences to choose from on the water. Arisaig Marine offers a three-and-a-half-hour boat trip without going ashore aboard the MV Sheerwater. It departs from Arisaig and travels through Loch nan-Ceall; the route may change depending on conditions. The MV Sheerwater also carries foot passengers to and from the Small Isles. On day trips, visitors can explore the island scenery and watch wildlife. This distinguishes the trip without going ashore from the day trips: the boat trip focuses on the journey through Loch nan-Ceall, while the island trips focus on scenery and wildlife watching. Sea kayaking in Arisaig takes you between islands, beaches, hidden coves and sheltered sea inlets. The three-and-a-half-hour duration makes the round trip easy to plan as a standalone activity. Seasonal sailing times and the availability of trips and Small Isles connections may vary, so check the current timetable before making plans.

Practical information

Arisaig Marine has parking, toilets, a café and a well-stocked gift shop; these facilities may be subject to seasonal restrictions. If any of these services are important to your plans, check their availability in advance. Sailing times and the availability of trips and Small Isles connections may also vary seasonally; check the current timetable before making plans.

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