Bonawe Iron Furnace

Argyll and Bute, United Kingdom

The most complete charcoal-fuelled ironworks in Britain, Bonawe was founded in 1753 by Cumbrian iron masters who were attracted by the industrial potential of Argyll’s woodlands. Bonawe Iron Furnace is situated in a spectacular setting at the head of Loch Etive which extends up towards the dramatic Glen Coe.

At its height the furnace produced up to 700 tons of pig iron from Cumbrian ore annually which was cast into everything from cannonballs during the Napoleonic War to iron pigs for export and even the first monument erected to Admiral Nelson after the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805.

A detailed and informative exhibition charts the development of the furnace up until its closure in 1876 and explains the chemistry behind iron making. Today visitors can see inside the charcoal sheds – immense, cathedral-like structures – and admire the remarkably complete furnace.

References:

Visit Scotland

Industrial sites in United Kingdom

Address

Bonawe, Argyll and Bute, United Kingdom

See all sites in Argyll and Bute

Details

Founded: 1753
Category: Industrial sites in United Kingdom

More Information

www.historic-scotland.gov.uk
www.visitscotland.com

Rating

4.4/5 (based on Google user reviews)

Interesting Sites Nearby

Ardchattan Priory (4,9 km)

St Conan's Kirk (11,8 km)
Inveraray Castle (24,2 km)
Kilchurn Castle (13 km)
Glenfinnan Viaduct (50,4 km)
Dunstaffnage Castle (12,9 km)
Inverlochy Castle Ruins (44,8 km)
Skipness Castle Ruins (74,7 km)
Duart Castle (26,2 km)
Dunollie Castle Ruins (15,7 km)

User Reviews

gunnyglock89 (7 months ago)
Very quiet and nice place to walk around and view some real history of this area. Lots of info boards, many of the buildings were closed for renovations when I visited but it's still worth the visit.

Shox Wake (11 months ago)
It's a good historic furnace , having a guide book helped as the site was closed and the buildings fenced off when I visited , I would love to explore the site properly and when renovations are complete I will return

Pat Beeby (2 years ago)
Some structures are closed off for restoration but the grounds are still accessible and free to explore. A beautiful, peaceful spot with a fascinating history. There are plenty of signs around the site with information on each of the buildings.

Tim Gardner (3 years ago)
An interesting part of the area's history, with really well - preserved buildings. The staff member looking after the site was fantastic - very friendly and informative.

John Brown (3 years ago)
Pleasant and informative staff.

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