Loch Katrine Victoriana Weekend 17th and 18th September 2016
14/09/2016
Trossachs Pier, Loch Katrine, Perthshire
At Loch Katrine, the heritage of the Victorian Era is all around us. The Steam Ship Sir Walter Scott (launched in 1900) has been sailing ever since on Loch Katrine, a reservoir created by Victorian engineers as a water supply for Glasgow here in the heart of the Trossachs, offering visitors a unique perspective of the scenic majesty of the area made famous by Sir Walter Scott’s epic poem, “The Lady of the Lake”
The reservoir was constructed as part of an innovative water works project by Fredrick Bateman and was completed in 1859.
The Victoriana weekend - September 17th and 18th is to celebrate and marvel at the technology and Victorian legacy in the area and hopefully, even inspire a new generation of steam enthusiasts!
The Steamship Sir Walter Scott was built in 1899 by William Denny Brothers Limited (ship number 623 from the yard) and transported to Stronachlacher to service the Stronachlacher – Trossachs Pier route on Loch Katrine allowing Victorian Tourists, inspired by Sir Walter Scott’s vivid descriptions of the scenery and goings on around the loch, to experience them for themselves.
After 116 years the steamer is still running the same triple expansion steam engine fitted to the vessel in 1899. The triple expansion engine was at the cutting edge of Victorian design and technology at the time and is still one of the most efficient types of steam engine. Visitors can watch the engine from above, seeing the three cylinders pushing the crank round at 85 rpm, which gives about 8 knots of forward speed.
A trip on the loch is unforgettable - the sights and smells of the engine and loch side and the lack of sound from the engine, the steamer is quiet enough to catch out unsuspecting canoeists. A Rob Roy Special (hot chocolate with brandy) helps keep the breeze away whilst enjoying the stunning Trossachs scenery.
Loch Katrine is also home to The Scottish Steamboat Association and there is likely to be some smaller steamers on the loch following the SS Sir Walter Scott around- a great opportunity for steam enthusiasts to see the boats in an authentic setting.
A produce and craft market will also be taking place and other steam related curiosities will also be featured as well as a special guest or two.
All of us here at Loch Katrine look forward to welcoming you to the Steam Ship Sir Walter Scott, which has one of the best views anywhere and we hope you will enjoy the experience and learn more about the timeless legacy of the Victorians!
Fàilte gu Loch Katrine!
Why not make Callander your base for the weekend -Check availability and book your accommodation online at www.destinationcallander.co.uk
The Team at Loch Katrine.
