St. Conan’s Kirk: A Captivating Architectural Marvel on the Shore of Loch Awe

Scotland, , 73 Comments

Last Updated on the 3rd of December, 2025

Loch Awe is Scotland’s third largest freshwater loch, stretching 22 marvellous miles through the wild and wonderful Highland landscape.

It’s a sight to behold as you travel along its curving shore towards Oban, catching glimpses of shifting sunbeams that sweep across the wide, shimmering lake.

If you look closely, you’ll see a heavily wooded island linked to the mainland by a bridge. It’s called Innis Chonnel.

The island was purchased by Walter J. Douglas Campbell, brother of the 1st Lord Blythswood, who designed and built a stately mansion-house where he settled with his sister Helen and their elderly mother.

Apparently, his mother found the carriage ride to the local church too tiring and taxing, therefore, Douglas decided to build a church for her on the lake shores.

Today the church is known as St. Conan’s Kirk.

Read More: The Perfect Road Trip Itinerary For A Spellbinding 5 Days In Scotland

The cloisters.
One of the many interesting statues at the Kirk

St Conans Kirk – A Hidden Gem on the Shores of Loch Awe

Last summer, as we travelled from Loch Lomond to Glencoe, we made a detour to the stunning Kirk and I couldn’t be happier with the short yet quite memorable visit.

Over the years, we’ve driven past the church many times before, eventually finding an opportunity to enter.

The rain was drizzling down on a very quick visit, and we were almost the only visitors who braved the unpredictable Scottish weather for a quick peep.

I could have spent hours here, even with the rain, as it is not another lovely old medieval church. Instead, it is a unique feat of imagination, highly decorated, inside and out, with fanciful architectural flourishes, statues, tombs and towers.

The level of detail is astonishing – it keeps us well-occupied finding all the little quirks and whimsies.

Read More: How to Visit Enchanting Stirling Castle & Gardens in Scotland: An Easy Guide

Photo courtesy of St Conans Kirk website

A Short History of St. Conan’s Kirk

St Conan’s Kirk was designed and built in the late 19th century by Walter Douglas Campbell.

As a skilled woodcarver, architect and keen collector of objets d’art, Campbell started work on a small cruciform church in 1881.

Five years later, the church was completed, but it was not long before Walter proceeded to create something far more elaborate.

In 1907, he began a much larger, more ornate building and entirely rebuilt the earlier structure, devoting the rest of his life to its execution until he died in 1914.

After that,  his sister Helen continued developing the structure until her demise in 1927, but it was not until 1930 that the building was finally consecrated.

Currently, Kirk is under a trust that seeks to maintain the structure to its full glory.

Read More: What To See and Do In Edinburgh: 12 Amazing Things For The First-Time Visitors

Skilfully carved Cambell tomb.
One of the many interesting details within the church.

Reasons to visit St. Conan’s Kirk

St Conan’s Kirk is unexpectedly grandiose and embellished for its setting in such a small and isolated settlement. 

Clinging to a steep cliffside, the church itself is quite remarkable in ambience and design, oozing a powerful aura of peace and spirituality and making for the perfect stop along your Scottish road trip.

The interior is filled with light and deep shadows, and once you step outside, you are greeted by stunning views of Loch Awe.

There are also lush lochside gardens to stroll around, and a welcoming tearoom next door serving homemade scones.

*Fun Fact – it is said that Campbell deliberately included examples of every type of church architecture found in Scotland.

Read More: Top 11 Things To Do In Edinburgh This Autumn That Are Good For Your Soul

Exterior of the church.

Highlights and Unique Features

It is hard to sum up the style of St Conan’s Kirk; it is unlike any other church I’ve visited.

While the Kirk is heavy on Romanesque style, other parts of the church just don’t fit any category at all.

As you meander around the church, you’ll find that it also features the Saxon tower,  a stone circle, art carvings, the Celtic cross, ten Gothic flying buttresses and a Norman entrance.

Some of the highlights within the church:

  • The south wall of the Bruce Chapel contains a window from St Mary’s church in South Leith
  • The heavy oak beams were seized from two famous old battleships, the Duke of Wellington and the Caledonia.
  • A beautiful tomb featuring the recumbent image of Campbell, his head resting on a pillow carved by the sculptor Carrick 
  • Bruce Chapel contains a bell made for the Skerryvore Lighthouse in 1843.
  • King Robert Bruce‘s ossuary and stones from Iona Abbey

Read More: 8 Amazing Reasons Why You Should Visit Edinburgh At Least Once

The incredible St. Conan’s Kirk on the shores of Loch Awe.

Things To Know Before You Go

While the church is open throughout the year, please check the calendar for upcoming events as it is quite a popular place for weddings and renewal of vows.

  • Location in Argyll: Saint Conan’s Road, A85, Loch Awe, Dalmally, Argyll and Bute, Scotland
  • Opening Hours: Summer (April to September) 9am – 6pm,  Winter (October to March) 9am – 5pm.
  • Church Service: Actual church services are rare, but the building’s interior and gardens are usually open
  • Entrance by Donation: Visitors and their donations are vital to ensure the church’s survival.

Read More: Some Of The Best Things To See At The National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh

The Nave.

Things To See and Do Nearby

The region of Argyll and Bute is still fairly undiscovered yet offers so much, from soaring mountains to quaint villages tucked around the lake’s sweeping shoreline.

There are glens and mountains with rewarding hikes and stunning vistas. You can catch glimpses of wildlife: red deer roam gorse-plastered hillsides around the loch, and Ospreys and Golden Eagles hover above the mountain tops.

You can go fishing, book a table at one of the cosy restaurants hidden inside inns and relax by the roaring fireplace or visit Kilchurn Castle, said to be the most photographed castle in Scotland.

It doesn’t matter whether you’re passing through or spending a few days exploring Loch Awe, you’ll be smitten by the alluringly tranquil setting of the lake and the friendliness of the locals.

Read More: Your Guide To Some of The Edinburgh’s Best Neighbourhoods Worth Exploring

West Island Way on the Isle of Bute.

Kilchurn Castle: A Historic Jewel on the Banks of Loch Awe

If you are visiting Saint Conas Kirk, you cannot leave the lake shores without catching a glimpse of the famous Kilchurn Castle, which is located a stone’s throw away.

The ancient ruin, with its imposing walls and weathered stones, stands as a striking testament to Scotland’s rich history.

Built in the 15th century, the castle played a significant role in the region’s history and witnessed the struggles of Scottish clans, the ebb and flow of power, and the societal changes that shaped the nation.

As different clans sought dominance and control in the region, the castle exchanged hands multiple times. Over the years, it endured sieges, attacks, and the ravages of time, yet its crumbling ruins still evoke a sense of grandeur and resilience.

We found Kilchurn Castle to be a wonderful addition to our itinerary, especially as we found several highland cows roaming near the castle, which makes it a great spot to have more of an authentic Scottish experience!

  • Getting There: The castle is located at the northeast end of Loch Awe, 2.5 miles west of Dalmally off the A85.

*Good To Know – there is no vehicular access to the castle, and you have to cross over agricultural land to reach the lake shores.

Read More: Isle Of Skye Guide: 5 Amazing Stops You Should Visit On The Trotternish Loop

The wonderful Kilchurn Castle, Scotland

Where To Stay Near the Kirk

Loch Awe has no shortage of amazing accommodation ranges – there are cosy inns, wooden chalets and boutique hotels.

Some hotels are situated right on the lake shores, while others are further inland. As it is a fairly remote area, some of the hotels have their own restaurants.

If you plan on spending more than a day in the area to soak in the spectacular scenery, alluringly tranquil setting and lesser-known Munros, you can spend a night in one of the unique hotels dotted around the lake shore.

Here are some of the accommodations you can choose from:

  • The Ben Cruachan Inn | offering stunning views over the lake, the Ben Cruachan Inn has a bar, restaurant and an outdoor terrace.
  • Loch Awe Cabins | A hidden gem in the middle of the forest, Loch Awe Cabins are perfect for a quiet retreat. The wooden houses are well equipped with everything you might need for a relaxing weekend break, including a wood stove and a hot tub.
  • The Kilchrenan Inn | What was once an 18th-century trading post is beautifully refurbished and cosy. You’ll find that bedrooms at the Kilchrenan Inn have Hypnos beds and mattresses, and the hotel boasts an excellent food menu and a welcoming bar.

Read More: A Local’s Guide: Some Of The Best Things To See And Do In Edinburgh’s New Town

One of the rooms at The Kilchrenan Inn

Getting To St. Conans Kirk

Located in the village of Loch Awe, on the A85 between Dalmally and Oban, St. Conans Kirk is easily accessible from different locations.

The closest city to Kirk is Glasgow, located only 1 1-hour and 50 minutes away.

Arriving From Glasgow By Public Transport – If you don’t feel like driving, then look at Scottish Citylink, which operates a bus from Buchanan Bus Station to St Conans Road junction 3 times a day. Tickets cost €21–30 and the journey takes 2h 22m.

Alternatively, ScotRail operates a train from Glasgow Queen Street to Loch Awe twice daily. Tickets cost €24–55 and the journey takes 2h 25m.

  • By Car – if you are travelling by car, it takes 30 minutes to reach it from Oban, an hour and a half from Fort William and around 2 and a half hours if you are travelling from Edinburgh.
  • By Bus – it is also possible to reach the Kirk by public transport. The following transport lines have routes that pass near St Conan’s Kirk: 266, 975, 976, 978, and 403.
  • By Train – you can also arrive by train operated by ScotRail from Oban Railway Station, from Fort William and from Glasgow.

Read More: A Short Guide to The Best Attractions Along The Royal Mile in Edinburgh

You can catch a train from Glasgow Queen Street

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Now, over to you!

Have you ever been to St. Conans Kirk? Let us know in the comments!

Let us know if you are planning a visit to St. Conans Kirk or Scotland and have travel-related questions!

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73 thoughts on “St. Conan’s Kirk: A Captivating Architectural Marvel on the Shore of Loch Awe”

    1. As the church is normally open throughout the year and entry is free, it’s a wonderful place to stop, stretch your legs, take in the surrounding scenery and learn a bit about the unique kirk. Thanks for stopping by, and have a wonderful day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. I am glad to hear that, Jim. Over the year, we’ve driven past the kirk many times until decided to check it out last summer. The views of the lake are so beautiful and so is the unique church. Thanks for stopping by, and have a wonderful day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. It’s one of Argyll‘s hidden gems worth visiting. So glad we stopped and I would highly recommend anyone to visit. Thanks for stopping by, and have a wonderful day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Truly a place that I find words hard to describe, it’s simply unmissable for its beauty, history and tardis-like interior. We’ve driven past this church many times before eventually finding an opportunity to enter. During the day there always seems to be a lot of cars parked in the immediate area, I now know why. Thanks for stopping by, and have a wonderful day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Hi, Lyssy, this is such a wonderful surprise to hear from you on the last day of March! I hope all is well and you are enjoying life as a new mom. There are few castles in Scotland as picturesque as Kilchurn Castle on Loch Awe. It is a treasure trove of history and stunning scenery and is a must-see when visiting this part of Scotland. Thanks for stopping by, and have a wonderful day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. It was my very first time visiting St. Conans Kirk and I can say that it’s a very interesting take on ecclesiastical architecture and has a background worth reading about. There’s also the Robert the Bruce connection which adds to the attraction. Definitely worth stopping and taking the time to wander round. Thanks for stopping by, and have a wonderful day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Given that Scotland has more than 30,000 freshwater lochs, ranging from small lochans to the likes of Loch Ness and Loch Lomond, one cannot know them all. St. Conans Kirk is a remarkable architectural gem with a rich history and stunning craftsmanship. I can highly recommend visiting it. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  8. What a stunning work of art and dedication. This kirk is a testament to Douglas’ dedication to church and mother and what a perfect site. So many beautiful Scottish scenes in this post. Thanks for sharing Marion. Allan

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    1. I was captivated by its unique design as the church has so many turrets, spires, arches, and intricate stone carvings. And I loved the picturesque setting. What was meant to be a short stop turned into a tranquil and inspiring experience. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Thanks so much for your wonderful comment, dear Luisa. St. Conans is a wonderful place to visit as you can marvel at its architectural details, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Don’t you worry, Allan! Enjoy the last day of March and be aware of April Fools pranks tomorrow. As kids, we used to swap out our parents’ pillows with blown-up balloons for a bedtime surprise! When they laid down expecting a soft pillow, they were met with a squeaky, bouncy shock—or even a surprise pop if they put too much weight on it.

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  11. What an eclectic church. When I started reading, I expected a small charming church on an island, but wow, what a fascinating building! Adding it to my Scotland list. Thanks for the info Aiva. Maggie

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    1. The church is truly beautiful, Maggie. I loved how each element of the kirk has been carefully crafted to create a harmonious and awe-inspiring space that reflects the beauty of its surroundings. What a fantastic thing to build for your mother. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  13. That brought back so many memories, Aiva. The excitement of many a youth hosteling trip originating from Queen Street Station. The Kirk was quite magnificent. The photo of the castle was fantastic!

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    1. What a fantastic surprise, Kerry. It’s so nice to hear from you! I am so glad my photo of the Queen Street Station brought back many wonderful memories. It’s one of my favourite train stations and during our time in Glasgow, we returned many times as I just loved Glasgow’s shiny new gateway and the constant buzzing within it. I also loved the fact that the windows offered an external benefit acting as a mirror for all those spectacular buildings Glasgow is so famous for – proof that modern innovation and historical grandeur can live side by side in the city. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 I hope all is well 🙂 Aiva xx

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      1. I went to college, Caledonia University, just north of the station but my bus terminus was at St Enoch’s square, so passed Queen Street every day. At least it was downhill on the way back…

        My boyfriend during the college years was an architecture student so I had a wonderfully informative guide to all the beautiful buildings. K x

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        1. Having a boyfriend who’s also an architect in a city like Glasgow where many stunning buildings range from medieval cathedrals and Victorian structures to modern landmarks like the Riverside Museum must have been a real treat.

          Before the trip, I had not been back to Glasgow for close to two decades now and loved feasting my eyes upon Glasgow Cathedral, Provand’s Lordship, Tolbooth Steeple and my favourite – Glasgow University.

           I hope all is well xx

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    1. Thanks so much for letting me know 🙂 Wishing you a safe, smooth, and enjoyable trip! May your journey be filled with wonderful experiences and create lasting memories. Aiva xx

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  15. What a gorgeous gem! St. Conan’s Kirk looks absolutely magical, and Loch Awe truly looks AWE-some (haha)! I’ve not been to this part of Scotland yet, but I hope to head back and check it out. Thanks for sharing, Aiva! 🙂

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    1. I am glad you like the church, Rebecca. St Conan’s Kirk is a marvel of Scottish heritage. The lake and its many attractions are fabulous places to incorporate in the itinerary. I hope you get to return to Scotland one day. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  16. Hi Aiva, looks and sounds like an absolutely beautiful and fascinating part of Scotland to explore. And you’re right, that’s no ordinary church. Intricate and compelling to visit I’m sure. Thanks for taking me there. Awe is such an apt name! Much love. xx

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    1. The church is magnificent, beautiful, remarkable, eccentric and just a little bizarre. I loved the fact that Walter Campbell did not design the church to conform to any particular style. Rather he took ideas and designs from different places and periods and produced something that serves as a collection of the best or most interesting features drawn from many other churches. And, yes, Awe is such an apt name 🙂 Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. I’ve been to many churches, Diana, as this is one of the most memorable ones for sure. The details within the church are so exquisite and varied it is difficult to take in easily. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  18. Much of the charm of this church comes from the passion of its designer. Nowadays, this kind of passion rarely turns towards religious works. In the photo of Kilchurn Castle, the play of light and reflections is fascinating.

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    1. Campbell took ideas and designs from different places and periods and produced something remarkable. I am glad you loved the photo of Kilchurn Castle. We arrived very very early in the day and were greeted by a clear windless morning, and hardly a ripple to disturb the lake. It’s a location I can see myself returning to over and over again because the castle is located amidst some of the finest Scottish scenery. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. It’s a church unlike any other I have seen, Hannah! As I was admiring the overall melange of spires, towers and turrets, I also found metal rabbits’ heads used as spouts in the drainage system and carved stone owls. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. I am so glad that we stopped by the church, Linda. St Conan’s Kirk is such a beautiful and fascinating Kirk in Argyle. My highlight was finding the Bruce Chapel which contains a fragment of Robert the Bruce’s bone. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  21. Amazingly beautiful. Thank you for sharing and all the details. You make traveling so easy. You have tour guides in your posts!! There are so many incredible castles in your area. Imagine how long and the cost to build them back then… 💕

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    1. Thank you kindly 🙂 I am glad you enjoyed my post about St. Conans Kirk. The church is a unique feat of imagination, highly decorated, inside and out, with fanciful architectural flourishes, statues, tombs and towers. The interior really is beautiful and has lots to look at. Then there are the views over the lake, the icing on the cake. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Thanks so much, Melodie. We only had a day to visit Argyll and Bute, which, like many regions in Scotland, has a variety of beautiful natural landscapes to explore. Loch Awe is well worth a stop –  it is surrounded by a beautiful and rugged landscape, there are historic sites like Kilchurn Castle and St. Conans Kirk as well as many charming villages along its shores. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. The beauty of Loch Awe and St. Conans Kirk is undeniable and a must-see when visiting the Argyll and Bute region. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. St Conan’s Kirk is beautiful and fascinating in Argyle, and I am so glad that we finally had a chance to stop by and admire its unique design. It is truly a place that I find words hard to describe, it’s simply unmissable for its beauty, history and tardis-like interior. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. I am glad you like it. This is a beautiful church and spot overlooking the loch that has a wonderful atmosphere and is well worth visiting if you are in this part of the world. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. I hope you get to visit both countries, dear Rebecca, as it’s quite possible to experience both Ireland and Scotland in a single trip. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. I am glad you enjoyed it. It’s a unique church on the shores of Loch Awe, and we very much loved its captivating architectural blend of Gothic, Romanesque, and Scottish Baronial styles. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. It’s a wonderful Kirk that features elements like turrets, cloisters, and intricate stone carvings. I particularly loved how the Kirk’s exterior and interior showcased a beautiful blend of architectural styles, making it a visually stunning sight. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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