The Old Smiddy

The Old Smiddy was built in 1862 and was used as a blacksmith's shop until the middle of the 1900s.

There is a lot of history surrounding the place itself which enjoys modern features as well as reminders of years gone by. The self catering accommodation is built over Ballagan Burn which flows down into the River Leven, meeting the water of Loch Lomond to eventually join the River Clyde. The building that formerly stood on the site of the present self catering unit was used for firing and then throwing the cart wheels through a trap door into the burn to cool down. There was also a mill further upstream.

The accommodation is all on one level with main door entry into a very well-equipped kitchen which hosts everything required: cooker, washer/drier, dishwasher, fridge, freezer, microwave, coffee maker,  etc..  There is free WIFI

There is a very comfortable sitting room with cable TV, a bookcase full of information and magazines.  There are two en-suite bedrooms. The double bedroom has fitted mirror wardrobes with ample storage space, clock, radio and remote control frreeview TV. There is an electric blanket on the bed and there is a shower/toilet with shaver point within the bedroom. There is a large, sprung sofa bed which is suitable for one adult or two children to sleep on. The other bedroom is a twin with two single beds (both with electric blankets) and also clock radio and remote control freeview TV. There is also a toilet/shower and shaver point in this room as well.

There is full gas central heating in this cotage and although electricity is included in the price, overuse will result in a payment at the end of the stay.

Until recently the Old Smiddy was used as a very successful Bed and Breakfast and therefore has all the requirements requested by the Tourist Board. Private parking is available and can easily accommodate car and boat if required. There is also a patio for guest use - come and sit beside the ducks !

Located within and forming part of the boundary of Scotland's first National Park, the former blacksmith's cottage offers a very comfortable, well-appointed and modern facility.

The self catering accommodation is separate to the main dwelling and is located approx. 6 minutes walk to Loch Lomond and all it has to offer including sailing, fishing, water ski-ing, etc. Nearby are horse riding facilities and if you are a hill walker, plenty of mountains to climb. Various sporting activities including shooting, canoeing, off-road driving, quad biking, etc., are available and details can be supplied on request.

Balloch is centrally located for Glasgow and the train journey from Balloch will take 40 minutes and cost roughly £5 return. Stirling is 35 minutes drive and Glasgow Airport is 20 minutes from Balloch. There is also a bus service near the door of the Old Smiddy, taking you to Glasgow or up to the east side of Loch Lomond to Balmaha near the foot of Ben Lomond. There is beautiful Scottish countryside all around this area.