Europe & Britain | Destination Guides

Ledard Hill Farm in the Highlands of Scotland

Recently updated on July 10th, 2023 at 02:58 pm

Tucked within the lush highland glen of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park (the first designated National Park across Scotland), Ledard Farm sits on the peaceful shores of Loch Ard, alongside a 20,000-acre forest. It’s on this historical hill farm that the Wood family provides guests with a privileged insight into authentic Scottish culture, and the opportunity to explore the farm’s verdant natural surroundings.

Highlands of Scotland

Dating all the way back to 1474, Ledard Farm has centuries of history to uncover, and having run the farm for the past three generations, the Wood family is well-placed to take guests on a journey of discovery, imparting stories about the farm’s connections to famous figures throughout history, including Scottish outlaw Rob Roy and novelist, playwright and poet Sir Walter Scott who wrote a novel there.

To give visitors a real feel for the country, the family showcase Scottish Highland dress as well as traditional folk music. In fact, Fergus Wood is a founding member of the esteemed Kinlochard Ceilidh Band, who perform at venues across the world. Fergus, along with his wife Francesca and son Gregor, host Ceilidh dances here to share their passion for this distinctive musical style. “Our family are all musical,” Fergus enthuses, “Gregor welcomes guests on the bagpipes, I play guitar and harmonica, and my wife has a beautiful voice that has won her several recording awards.”

Highlands of Scotland

As Ledard is still a working farm, the family spends time each day taking care of the animals. “We need to look after the sheep by feeding them in the winter, lambing and shearing, and Francesca looks after our horses and dogs,” Fergus explains. “Following a meal, visitors have the chance to take a look round the farm and meet some of the animals, including our seven sheepdogs, the Quack Commandos, who round up Indian Runner ducks.”

Guests are also given the opportunity to try their hand at clay pigeon shooting or archery, go fishing for salmon and trout, and canoe across the calm waters of Loch Ard. The farm’s setting within the National Park is ideal for outdoor exploration, and guided walks can be taken along its winding trails.

Highlands of Scotland

Showcasing the quality of local produce from the farm and its surroundings, guests are served hearty meals within the 17th century MacGregor’s Barn. “Visiting the farm means joining the family for lunch or dinner,” Fergus says, “and at each mealtime we like to entertain our guests with traditional Scottish music and stories of days gone by. Naturally, the best Scottish lamb is on the menu.”

Each Trafalgar guest welcomed onto the farm is certain to have an unforgettable experience as they gain an insight into this side to Scottish life. Fergus concludes: “Visitors to the farm have the experience of meeting a real Scottish family and the opportunity to spend time in their home. Ultimately, it’s a chance to really get under the skin of Scotland.”

Highlands of Scotland

Visit Ledard Farm on the Best of Scotland trip or Scotland’s Highlands, Islands and Cities trip.

Image credits: featured image of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park © iStock / munro1. Gregor Wood © Ledard Farm. Loch Ard in Trossachs National Park © iStock / karamboi. Fergus and Gregor Wood © Ledard Farm. Ledard Farm © courtesy of Ledard Farm.

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