A - Z of Mull (Part 3), Isle of Mull

Written by Hooked on Mull

Published on 28th May 2020

Continuing our celebration of the Isle of Mull, our third feature of ‘Mull in Pictures’ includes letters K – O.

K – Knock House

At the heart of Benmore Estate sits Knock House, a truly beautiful Highland lodge, set amoungst spectacular scenery.

From the mid 15th century Knock and the surrounding lands belonged to the MacLeans of Duart, having been granted by King James IV of Scotland. Knock remained within the family for over 200 years. Around 1650 the MacLeans granted a bond in favour of their kinsman, the Marquess of Argyll.

The Marquesses, and subsequent Dukes, of Argyll went on to own Knock House and it’s surrounding lands for almost 300 years. During this time Queen Victoria’s fourth daughter Princess Louise married John Marquess of Lorne, the 9th Duke of Argyll. The property ended its history with the Argyll’s in 1924 when it was bought by Lord Massareene.

Now belonging to the Radford Family, Knock House has special significance for its owners. Mr Radford enjoyed family visits to Knock House as a child and, following the unforgettable family holiday on the Isle of Mull, is now delighted to offer the experience to guests.

Guided walking & wildlife breaks, Hooked on Mull

L – Landscapes

The Isle of Mull has some of the most beautiful and dramatic landscapes in Scotland.

For some people these panoramic views offer creative inspiration – drawing in photographers, painters and writers from all over the world.

To others, they offer an adventure playground to climb, hike and explore. The rolling hills hide hidden lochs and otherworldly rock formations awaiting discovery.

And, perhaps to all who visit, the wild and untamed landscapes of Mull offer an escape from the modern world.

There are very few places left untouched and unshaped by man – but here the landscapes are still deeply connected to the wildlife and nature of the island.

M – Clan MacLean

The founder of the clan was a Scottish warlord named ‘Gillean of the Battle Axe’ – a name he is said to have acquired due to his weapon of choice and constant companion – his deadly battle axe.

By the 14th century, the Clan MacLean had become a dominant force in the Western Isles. Life in the 14th Century was tough, dangerous and warfare between clans for land and power was rife. But the MacLeans had Duart Castle. Acting both as a defensive fortress and a noble home, the strength of Duart allowed the Clan to establish its powerbase on the western coast of Scotland. By the end of the 15th century the Macleans owned the isles of Mull, Tiree, Islay, Jura, Knapdale as well as Morvern in Argyll and Lochaber in mainland Scotland.

Today, Duart Castle still boasts a commanding position at the entrance to the Sound of Mull, complete with outstanding views that have changed little over the centuries.

Duart Castle opens it’s doors to visitors from April through to October (currently closed due to the Coronavirus pandemic) and true to tradition Sir Lachlan Maclean of Duart and Morven, the 28th Chief of Clan Maclean, still resides in Duart Castle.

N – Night Skies

Whether it’s sunsets, stargazing or even witnessing the Northern Lights – Mull’s skies never fail to disappoint.

Year round, the island’s spectacular scenery offers a breathtaking backdrop to frame the perfect Scottish sunset. During the colder darker months, with a little bit of luck and a clear and cloudless night, you just might get to experience the spectacular show of the Aurora Borealis.

Even if luck isn’t on your side, stargazing on Mull during the darker winter months is an unforgettable experience. Due to the lack of light pollution the island lies beneath one of the darkest skies in Europe.

O – Otters

One of the biggest draws to Mull is the potential to spot the Eurasian Otter. Otters can be spotted year round on the Isle of Mull, they tend to be more active at dusk and dawn and at a particular state of tide.

They are often found along a stretch of rocky coastline, fishing in the seaweed, playing or grooming on top of the outcrops or quietly sleeping.