Tarbert History

Tarbert has several assets worthy of a mention which remain in the village, and are part of a range of heritage sites and historical assets throughout the Kintyre Peninsula.

Fishing has been a part of the history of Tarbert for centuries, the quay is an interesting place bustling with activity when the fishing boats come in, lorries loading and scales weighing. The silver darling (Loch Fyne Herring) is what made Tarbert and Loch Fyne famous, a product that was in heavy demand and has now declined to almost nothing, in favour of shellfish. Herring stocks were drastically reduced through overfishing, and now the fishing boats are not equipped for such fishing.

Langoustine and other shellfish used to be thrown back into the Loch as were of little value, in favour of landing as much herring as possible, however Langoustine and other shellfish provides the most value today and are supplied locally as well as transported throughout Europe.

Religion is also a part of what has developed and shaped Scotland's people and cultures, the influences of which can be seen in the monuments and architecture across the country. Tarbert's very own Church is one a number of religious buildings that are used and looked after. The church that dates back to around 1775 is sat upon a small mound and can be seen from quite a distance from various points in the village. It is a very dominant building in the Tarbert landscape and one which is used regularly.

Tarbert's Royal Castle is another item of interest, sitting high above the village. The keep, which accounts for the majority of the remains above grass level is in a ruinous state, although you can make out how the castle would have been from the walls and undulations that remain. The association with Robert the Bruce is a well known one and demonstrates the importance of the Kintyre peninsula and Tarbert in the making of Scotland.

The harbour, a welcoming sheltered place, to has a great association historically and has been used as a sheltered place for over a thousand years.

There is much to find and much to learn about Tarbert and its people.