
Loch Earn, nestled in the heart of Central Scotland, is more than just a breathtaking landscape of shimmering waters and towering mountains—it’s a place steeped in folklore, where the whispers of the past still echo through the glens. Stories passed from generation to generation keep the magic alive, weaving tales of faeries, water spirits, and legendary figures into the fabric of these mystical lands.
A Land of Legends.
Throughout history, Loch Earn and its surroundings have been home to characters whose stories have transcended time:
- Rob Roy MacGregor—Outlaw or hero? His name remains one of Scotland’s most celebrated, drawing visitors to his resting place in the grounds of Balquhidder Kirk.
- Robert Kirke—A 17th-century reverend who penned The Secret Commonwealth, detailing the realm of faeries. Once read you can decide whether he was of sound mind or not.
- St Fillan—An 8th-century saint whose healing stones and sacred waters were believed to cure the afflicted.
- Fingal the Giant—A figure of Celtic myth, rumored to rest beneath the village of Killin.
- St Blane—A monk who laid a terrible curse upon the lands around Edinample Castle, sealing a grim fate for the MacGregors.
Mystical Creatures & Otherworldly Encounters.

Ghosts, too, have a strong presence. The specter of an ill-fated architect is said to stalk the rooftops of Edinample Castle, doomed to wander after meeting his end at the hands of the furious Black Duncan (Campbell) of Glenorchy.
Then there are the "faeries", believed to dwell beneath certain earthen mounds and enchanted stones. As recently as 1995, the villagers of St Fillans opposed a housing development that threatened a sacred rock, believed to shelter a fairy colony. Their determination prevailed, and the plans were modified to safeguard the enchanting site. The "chieftain’s mound" near Loch Earn’s games field, is said to be home to the Good Folk. Guid Folk or Wee Folk were Scots terms that people used to refer to fairies in order to show respect and avoid their displeasure. Watch for Gaelic names like Sidh or Sith, signifying places connected with these otherworldly beings. Robert Kirk’s 1691 Secret Commonwealth remains an essential guide to their elusive society.
The Celts held a deep reverence for "thin places"—sacred sites where the boundary between the earthly and spiritual realms was thought to be at its most fragile, offering a profound connection to the divine. Balquhidder is said to be a thin place. We recommend guests visit The Friends room inside Balquhidder Kirk.
Folklore That Shaped Culture.

Stories of enchanted relics also abound. The Clach Dhearg of Ardvorlich is a crystal ball mounted in silver - in spite of translating as "red ochre". Said to hold healing powers; it was once used to cure sick cattle through ritual and Gaelic incantations. It was said to have been brought back from the Crusades in the 14th Century.
Magregors, MacLarens and Stewarts of Ardvorlich are mentioned here. The annual Balquhidder, Lochearnhead and Strathyre Highland Games is a great place to ask questions and hear stories. Held annually in July, MacLaren and MacGregor clan folk rally from near and far. The Chiefs and Chieftans host a Highland Games gathering of kinsfolk in their respective tents in the games field. A fantastic traditional event.
Loch Earn’s folklore stretches far beyond what can be told in mere words. From the Lady of Lawers’ prophecies to the revenge of the McNabs, from Pictish ruins to sacred stones—there’s no shortage of mysteries to explore.
To truly experience the spirit of Loch Earn, one must stand upon its shores, listen to the wind, and let the legends reveal themselves.
Come, step into a world where history and myth walk hand in hand—you may even leave with a story or experience of your own.
Kim Proven
Briar Cottages - Luxury and Pet friendly
Lochearnhead on Loch Earn
www.stayatbriar.co.uk