The Inveraray Highland Games were said to have started in 1563, when Mary Queen of Scots visited her half-sister, The Countess of Argyll, and was shown a display of athletics by the young men of the area. The next recorded games were in 1844 when Lady Elizabeth Levenson-Gower was the Duchess of Argyll and the games were known as the Inveraray Regatta and Sports Club.
The Duke of Argyll was appointed Chieftain of the Games in 1904, a position still held today, which involves the Duke leading the marching bands, games officials and supporters through the town before officially opening the games for the day.
The Inveraray Highland Games have been held on the first Tuesday of Glasgow Fair ever since, apart from during the Second World War, and are now at the Winterton Park, loaned by the Duke for the occasion.
The games consist of traditional solo piping, Highland dancing, heavy, field and track events and wrestling, demonstrated by some of the finest in their fields from all over Great Britain and overseas. One of the highlights of the Inveraray Games is the Challenge Caber, one of the longest cabers in the games’ circuit, measuring 21 feet and 6 inches. The caber is thrown and judged on the style of the throw, rather than the distance. Since 2009 the World Caber Championship has been held at the Highland Games and will again play host this year.
As well as the games, there are a variety of stalls selling crafts and gifts, full catering facilities with the emphasis on Scottish produce, demonstrations from the armed forces, amusement rides and side shows – so fun for all the family. Visit the Inveraray Games Website. All the action on 19 July 2011.
Visit the Inveraray Castle Website
Castle Tearoom: 01499 303112
Castle Kiosk: 01499 3021787
If you would like to stay in a castle locally:
Barcaldine Castle
Barcaldine Castle
Stonefield Castle
Stonefield Castle
Lachlan Castle (self-catering)
Lachlan Castle
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