Glen Shira facts for kids
Glen Shira (which in Gaelic is called Gleann Siara, meaning "Glen of the eternal river") is a beautiful valley in Argyll, Scotland. You can find it at the top end of Loch Fyne, just north of a town called Inveraray.
This glen is a really special place for nature, known as a Special Area of Conservation in the UK. It's next to a mountain called Beinn Bhuidhe. The name Glen Shira comes from the River Shira, which flows right through the middle of the valley. This river starts at a dam called Sron Mor (which means Big Nose) at the northern end. It then travels about 7 miles down to a lake called Loch Dubh (meaning Black Lake). From there, the water flows into a small inlet on Loch Fyne called Loch Shira. A ferry boat, the MV Loch Shira, is even named after it!
Most of Glen Shira is a sheep farm, but there are also several houses scattered around. Some of these houses have interesting names like Elrigbeg, Elrig More, Kilblaan, and Drimlee. There's only one narrow road that goes up the glen to the dam. This road then splits off to an access road that crosses the River Shira on a bridge, leading to Drimlee.
Rob Roy MacGregor's Home in the Glen
A famous Scottish folk hero, Rob Roy MacGregor, once lived in Glen Shira for a short time. He was protected by John Campbell, 2nd Duke of Argyll, who was also known as Red John of the Battles. In 1716, the Duke helped Rob Roy get a pardon and permission to build a house in the upper part of Glen Shira. Records show that Rob Roy also built a fank, which is a pen for sheep or cattle, in the glen.
However, after a rebellion in 1719, Rob Roy moved away from Glen Shira, probably around 1720. He went to live by Loch Doine. Even though he left, you can still see the ruins of his old home and structures in the glen today.
Images for kids
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Inveraray facing north towards the glen mouth.
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Looking northwards (up-glen) at the mouth. Dubh Loch is in foreground.
