Keils and Kilearnadil cemetery, Craighouse

Summary

This easy walk from Craighouse visits the old settlement of Keils and Kilearnadil graveyard with its medieval graves - it has been the island's cemetery for many centuries.

Grade

Bog Factor

3.5/5

Rating

Terrain

Tarmac lanes and landrover track.

Getting there

Start

Craighouse.

Public Transport

Infrequent Jura bus service runs between Feolin Ferry and Ardlussa calls at Craighouse.

Start Grid Ref

NR527671

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Walk Statistics

Distance: 4.75km / 3 miles
Time: 1.5 hours
Ascent: 39m (Profile)

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Explorer 355 - Jura & Scarba

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Walk Description

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Stage 1

Craighouse - set on the Bay of Small Isles - is Jura's tiny capital, and the site of the island's only shop, cafe and hotel/pub - as well as the famed distillery. There is a parking area by the island community hall just north of the shop. Begin the walk by heading north along the road. There are lovely views out across the Bay of Small Isles which is sheltered by a whole row to tiny islands - and usually dotted with moored yachts.

Stage 2

Pass rows of cottages and later the church. Continue until a roadsign indicates a lane off for the Cemetery to the left. Turn up this, following it up to and through the old settlement of Keils. 102 people lived here in 22 houses in 1841; the population then declined but more recently new crofts have halted the decline and some new houses are being built. Continue along the lane, turning left to stay on the tarmac when a track heads down to the right (used on the return route).

Stage 3

Pass through a large metal gate, and keep right along the track to reach the cemetery, heading up the steps to explore. This ancient burial ground has been in use for many centuries; look out especially for the carved medieval slabs lying flat soon after entering the main part of the cemetery - there are several with warrior swords and some with celtic designs. Towards the far end of the cemetery is the Campbell Mausoleum which houses the remains of several of the island's former lairds.

Stage 4

Retrace your steps down the track and through the gate, but when the lane turns right to return to Keils just keep straight ahead down a track to return to the main road around the back of the bay. At the road turn right to return to Craighouse, passing the island school along the way.

Route Profile

Where to stay

Islay, Jura & Colonsay Hotels

Islay, Jura & Colonsay B&B

Islay, Jura & Colonsay cottages

Islay, Jura & Colonsay hostels

Glamping and Camping

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