Argyll didn’t build its beautiful green palette around an endless run of dry sunny days. What makes this part of Scotland such an eye-catching masterpiece is the (sometimes unpredictable) weather pattern. The dazzling colours, fauna, and landscape that Argyll has become iconic for are brought about by warm continental drifts, and a healthy mix of sunshine and rain.
So, as we celebrate the drizzle that sometimes graces our coastline, we want to make sure that it doesn’t get in the way of your Scottish vacation. Pack a light rain jacket and take note of these 6 things to do on a rainy day around Oban and Argyll … because it’s nice to be prepared!
1. Catch the latest film in a classic movie theatre
In 2012, the people of Oban clubbed together to collectively buy the town’s old cinema building, transforming it into a thriving picture house previewing a diverse mix of arthouse, big blockbuster movies and live streamed theatre. Today, this independent community-owned cinema is a great place to while away a rainy afternoon whilst supporting the town.
Learn what’s playing now: obanphoenix.com
2. Do some time in Inveraray Jail
The doors to Inveraray Jail were re-opened to the public almost one hundred years after it saw its last prisoners depart. The attraction gives visitors a behind the scenes look into the lives of the men, women, and children who were tried and served sentences in the prison. With costumed guides and realistic presentations, the attraction is now one of Scotland’s favourite tourist stops.
Buy your tickets online and save on entrance fees: inverarayjail.co.uk
3. Travel back in time at the Oban War and Peace Museum
Establish in 1995 to mark the 50th anniversary of the ending of World War II, this little museum is run solely by a team of enthusiastic volunteers, eager to talk visitors through their astonishing collection of historic artefacts and photographs. Expect a deep dive into Oban’s inspiring maritime, war, and railway history, as well as the story behind the town’s famous McCaig’s Tower.
Plan your visit: obanmuseum.org.uk
4. Enjoy a long, cosy Scottish lunch
The weather needn’t spoil the views. In fact, in Scotland, it often makes them more memorable. Watch the mists roll from our spacious Restaurant and hunker down with tasty treats from Argyll’s land and sea. Our hearty menus offer everything from seafood sourced fresh from the waters around Oban, to seasonal vegetables picked fresh from our on-site garden.
Sample our menus: lochmelfort.co.uk/food
5. Take to the waters at Craobh Haven Watersports
On lighter drizzle days, why not fully embrace getting wet and take part in your very own paddle board adventure? From just £20 an hour, you can explore the Argyll coastline by sea, taking in the greenery and island views from a brand-new perspective.
View all of Craobh Haven’s watersports options: craobhwatersports.co.uk
6. Have a NEAT time at Oban Distillery
Wet weather or not, no trip to Argyll would be complete without a trip to a whisky distillery. One of our favourites? The Oban Distillery, of course! Guides at the working facility will take you through the process of whisky production, as well as tastings and a look into the history of their brand.
Book a distillery tour: Oban distillery
For more activities around Argyll, take a look at our earlier post, 5 ways to beat Winter blues in Argyll. In this blog, we detail additional attractions, such as a guided tour through Argyll’s giant hollow mountain, and a chocolate making workshop.