AN Iron Age-style crannog has opened to the public five years on from a devastating blaze.
The completion marks the end of the first £6 million project at The Scottish Crannog Centre on Loch Tay.
The project was to re-establish the centre on a new site with a visitor centre/museum/café, car park, Iron Age Village, play park, sensory garden and the crannog.
The second project – which will require more fundraising – is to build two more crannogs, a state-of-the-art museum and create a centre of excellence in traditional skills, as well as plans for some social housing.
However, managing director Mike Benson told the Local Democracy Reporting Service they were “taking a breath” before costing the second project, which he said “is a bit of a way off just now”.
For now, The Scottish Crannog Centre has announced that the crannog is now officially open to visitors.
On Monday, a spokesperson for The Scottish Crannog Centre said: “We would like to say a HUGE thank you to our incredible build team and dedicated volunteers who have worked tirelessly to create this magnificent structure.
“Through heatwaves, snow, wind and rain, they have shown remarkable determination and commitment to bring this vision to life. Every challenge was met with hard work, skill and passion, and the result is something truly extraordinary.
“Construction began in October 2024, and now, in July 2026, we are proud to see the completed crannog standing proudly out on the loch, a stunning testament to traditional craftsmanship, teamwork and perseverance.
“We couldn’t be prouder of everyone who helped make this possible. Thank you to every volunteer, supporter and member of the build team for being part of this incredible journey.
“Come and see the crannog for yourself; we can’t wait to welcome you!”
Around 2500 years ago some Scots lived in Iron Age loch-dwellings known as “crannogs” – 18 of which have been found on Perthshire’s Loch Tay.
In 1997 a crannog was reconstructed – based on excavation results – and became The Scottish Crannog Centre’s showpiece until it was destroyed by fire in 2021.
The blaze hastened the need for the planned development of the £12m new centre on the other side of the loch at Dalerb.
The centre says it has now “rebuilt and become bigger and better than ever, thanks to the efforts of many through fundraising, development, and dedication”.
The museum is open daily from 10am to 6pm with guided tours.
Reacting to the “tremendous news”, Highland Perthshire ward Conservative councillor John Duff said: “The completion of the new crannog is tremendous news and marks a significant milestone in the remarkable regeneration of The Scottish Crannog Centre and its Iron Age village on the shores of Loch Tay.
“Five years on from the devastating fire that destroyed the original crannog, it is fantastic to see an even stronger and more ambitious attraction rise from the ashes. The new crannog is a testament to the determination, vision and hard work of the team involved in bringing this important heritage site to life.
“With its stunning location extending out into Loch Tay and offering spectacular views across Highland Perthshire, the new crannog will provide visitors with a truly unique experience. The completion will help attract more visitors to the area, supporting local businesses and further strengthen Highland Perthshire’s reputation as one of Scotland’s premier tourism destinations.”
