Kerrera

Infobox Scottish island|
latitude=56.4
longitude=-5.53
GridReference=NM813281
celtic name=Cearrara
norse name= Kjarbarey
meaning of name= Norse for 'Kjarbar's island' or possibly 'copse island'
area=1,214 ha
area rank=44
highest elevation= Carn Breugach 189 m
Population=42
population rank=57
main settlement=Bailiemore
island group= Mull
local authority=Argyll and Bute
references= [2001 UK Census per List of islands of Scotland] [ [http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/vli/language/gaelic/pdfs/placenamesK-O.pdf Pàrlamaid na h-Alba placenames] ] Haswell-Smith, Hamish. (2004) "The Scottish Islands". Edinburgh. Canongate.] [ [http://www.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/ Ordnance Survey] ] [Anderson, Joseph (Ed.) (1893) "Orkneyinga Saga". Translated by Jón A. Hjaltalin & Gilbert Goudie. Edinburgh. James Thin and Mercat Press (1990 reprint). ISBN 0-901824-25-9]

Kerrera is a island in the Scottish Inner Hebrides, close to the town of Oban. In 2005, it has a population of about 35 people and is linked to the mainland by passenger ferry on the Gallanach Road.

The island is known for the ruined Gylen Castle, built in 1582. It was also the place where Alexander II of Scotland died in 1249. The highest point on Kerrera is Carn Breugach at 189 metres. Most of the island is owned by the McDougalls of Dunollie, who are descended from the Scottish Prince Somerled.

The main industry on the island is farming (Sheep and Highland Cattle) and tourism. There is an excellent Tea Room/Cafe at the south end near Gylen Castle. The castle itself has recently been restored and is now fully open to the public.

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References