In 1977, Paul McCartney had a Christmas season hit with a song about his love for his family’s Argyll hideaway, The Mull of Kintyre. Find out why Scotland’s most scenic peninsula offers boatloads of off-the-beaten-path charm, perfect for a relaxing festive season.
With a surfeit rich history and stunning coastal views around every corner, Kintyre provides a picturesque backdrop for a variety of Christmas events that everyone in the family will love. The festive season kicks off 22nd November with the annual Campbeltown Christmas Lights Switch-On ceremony. The town square will glow with dazzling lights, and the atmosphere will be alive with music, dance performances and festive stalls. Enjoy festive treats while the kiddies wait for Santa to make a special appearance.
On Sunday 24th November, join local farmers and artisans at the Christmas Market held at Springbank Malt Barns. This market is a treasure trove of seasonal produce, from locally sourced meats and cheeses to freshly baked goods and handmade crafts. Support local businesses while finding the perfect ingredients for your Christmas dinner or unique gifts for loved ones.
The jolly spirit continues throughout December with a series of seasonal programmes at local venues and churches. From the McDougalls Fairytale Christmas Show on 11th to lively community performances, festive events will showcase local talent and bring everyone together to celebrate the spirit of Christmas.
Kintyre’s wee villages are getting in the holiday spirit as well. On the Isle of Gigha, Ardminish Stores hosts Christmas shopping on the evening of 30th November. Head to Southend’s Dunaverty Hall on 1st December for the annual Christmas Market or the popular Senior Citizens Christmas Party on the 13th.
Gather with friends to enjoy an evening of festivities at the much-anticipated Hogmanay Hoolie in the Hall, and bring in the bells in style, complete with music from the Town Hall House Band, balloon drop and snacks, with the £20 ticket fee in support of the Robert Black Memorial Helipad.
If getting away from the chaos of the Christmas rush sounds like your idea of holiday heaven, why not switch the bumper to bumper traffic for a drive along the iconic Kintyre 66, one of Scotland’s most beautiful journeys, and shopping malls and for small town magic and miles of unspoilt beaches? So, mark your calendars and prepare for a festive journey filled with joy, laughter and unforgettable memories in Kintyre this Christmas!
Campbeltown Christmas Lights Group has taken delivery of new lights for every street crossing and existing pole lights, as well as new tree lights complete with a shiny new star for the top of the tree!
Thanks to the efforts of one man, Darren Kelly, Managing Director of McFadyens Contractors Campbeltown. After hearing the plea from the group’s chair, Raymond Harvey, about how they needed to repair and purchase new lights, Darren was quick to approach his contacts in managerial positions in various businesses to ask them to take part in his idea for a new community initiative. With thanks to McFayens Contractors, McFadyens Transport, Glen Scotia, Springbank, West Coast Motors, Jewsons Campbeltown, Huws Gray, Dawson Wam, AM Transport and McKinven and Colville who all donated to the appeal for lights on the street crossing and poles and Campbeltown Community Windfarm Trust who funded tree lights and a new star light in memory of those we have lost as a community, all these lights have been renewed. The group cannot express their thanks enough!
Thrifty and Nifty - Salvation Army Shop
The Salvation Army Shop in Campbeltown is a beloved thrift store that plays a vital role in the community. Offering second-hand clothing, furniture, books, and household items, it provides affordable options while promoting sustainability through recycling and reusing goods. All proceeds from the shop help fund the Salvation Army’s charitable work, benefiting individuals and families in need across the area.
The friendly staff and volunteers are always on hand to assist, creating a warm and welcoming environment. This shop is not only a resource for affordable shopping but also a hub for community support and outreach.
Don’t miss the community Christmas Carol Service, Sunday 8th December, 6pm, Campbeltown Parish Church
Muasdale Stores – a festive emporium!
Located in the cute coastal village of Muasdale, near Campbeltown, Muasdale Stores is very popular with locals and tourists. Known for its essentials, groceries, locally produced goods, the store serves as a one-stop shop for daily needs and unique treats. Offering a friendly service and an array of supplies, from fresh food to camping essentials.
This Christmas, the shelves are stacked to the rafters with festive delights – check out the ‘Britains’ and ‘Schleich toys and models’ which make perfect gifts for the young budding farmer! Get set for the Christmas feast - orders are being taken for hampers and pre-orders for McDowall Butchers too... they have everything you need for a great gastronomic season! See catalogue in store for details.
For all the latest visit their Facebook page
Tee up for a great gift at Machrihanish Pro Golf Shop
Machrihanish Pro Golf Shop, located at the stunning Machrihanish Golf Club is stocked with high-quality golf apparel, equipment, and accessories from top brands, ensuring golfers have everything they need for a great day on the green. In addition to retail, the shop offers expert advice on golf gear and provides insights into the challenging Machrihanish course, known for its breathtaking views and traditional links-style layout. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a beginner, the Pro Golf Shop has something to enhance them game at any level.
Click here for their Facebook page
Festive fun for the whole family at Glenbarr Stores
Christmas Walkabout: Just £5 per child, includes Santa letters at the Elves Post Office and reindeer food making! Runs from 23rd Nov to 22nd Dec, 11:30 am to 3:15 pm.
• Garden Centre: Stroll through beautiful Christmas trees and sparkling lights – free to explore!
• Café: Enjoy Christmas specials; book early for lunch as seating is limited.
• Gift Shop: Stocked with festive treasures for perfect gifts.
• Bauble Painting: Hands-on fun for £5 per ticket.
• Santa’s Grotto: Extra dates added for Dec 14th and 15th!
Tickets are LIVE!
Book at Glenbarr Stores
Small Things Bright and Beautiful
Small Things Boutique in Campbeltown is a delightful shop that specialises in unique, stylish clothing and accessories. Known for its carefully curated collection, the boutique showcases independent brands and one-of-a-kind pieces that appeal to those seeking something special. Small Things offers a blend of modern and classic styles, making it a perfect shopping destination for all ages. Friendly staff are passionate about fashion and ready to assist with styling tips, ensuring customers find pieces that reflect their personality. The boutique has become a go-to for locals and visitors looking for chic, distinctive finds in Campbeltown.
Click here for their Facebook page
Argyll & Bute Council Gift Card
The Argyll & Bute Council Gift Card is a convenient way to support local businesses and encourage shopping within the region. Accepted by a variety of retailers, restaurants, and service providers, this gift card offers flexibility and makes a great present for friends, family, or colleagues. Designed to keep spending within the community, the gift card supports economic growth in the area by encouraging residents and visitors to buy locally. Available in different denominations, it can be purchased online or at designated locations, providing an easy, thoughtful gift solution while helping local businesses thrive.
Order Argyll & Bute Gift Cards
All things fresh and festive at McIvor’s
Located at 8 Longrow South, Campbeltown, McIvors is a well established florist and grocer, renowned for creating beautiful, stylish floral designs for every occasion. Their experienced, qualified florists ensure each arrangement is crafted with care and attention to detail. Beyond flowers, McIvor’s offers home-baked goods, champagne, fine wines, fruit, fine malt whiskies, gifts, house plants, and patio plants. Delivery available. The shop operates Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 5 pm.
Christmas Events, Light Switch ons. Fayres, Markets, Entertainment, etc
Nimble Fingers Christmas Market
Town Hall, Campbeltown
Saturday 16th November, 10am - 4pm
Skipness Winter Fair
Skipness Village Hall, Skipness
Sunday 17th November, 11am - 3pm
Christmas Lights Switch On
Campbeltown
Friday 22nd November
6.30pm
Christmas Market and Santa’s Grotto
Springbank Malt Barns, Campbeltown
Sunday 24th November, 11am – 4pm
Tarbert Christmas Light Switch On
Friday 29th November, 6.30pm
Santa will be making an appearance, the lantern parade will be from the harbour marquee to the
creel tree and the Primary School choir will be singing carols.
Christmas Fayre
Dunaverty Hall, Southend
Sunday 1st December, 1pm - 5pm
Santa’s Grotto
Entry by donation
Christmas Market
The Ramsay Hall, Port Ellen
Sunday 1st December, 12pm - 3pm
Gifts, crafts, food
U3A Carol Concert
Argyll Hotel, Campbeltown
Thursday 5th December, 10.30am
Free coffee and mince pies
Christmas Shopping Evening
Tin Roof Diner, Campbeltown
Thursday 5th December, 5pm - 8pm
£5 entry which includes a glass of bubbles and festive nibbles
The McDougalls Fairy Tale Christmas Show
Campbeltown Picture House
Wednesday 11th December, 4.30pm
All seats £10
Christmas Party Nights
The Gather
Friday 13th & Saturday 14th December
The Jacobites
7pm til late
£43 per person includes entry, 3 course dinner, live entertainment and disco
Campbeltown Bowling Club Christmas party
Saturday 21st December, 8pm
Tickets £7.50 from the bar or
AP Taylor’s
Hogmanay Hoolie in the Hall Town Hall, Campbeltown
Tuesday 31st December, 8pm - 2am
Tickets £20
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