Loch Lomond is the largest fresh water lake in the British Isles containing 38 islands on the loch, some of which have been inhabited since Neolithic times. The varied terrain is the territory of ash, rowan, oak, beech and sycamore trees along with an impressive 25% of Britain’s wild plants. The area is a haven for wildlife; eagles, hawks and peregrine falcons are some of over 200 species of birds that fly around Loch Lomond. On the islands and on the shores there are wild deer, pine martins and wild cats. The Loch itself is home to more species of fish than any other; including pike, brown trout, salmon, fresh water herring and powan. On the eastern shore, and viewed from Wards Estate, the majestic Ben Lomond (3195ft) keeps an eternal vigil over nature in all its finery.

The local area is steeped in Scottish history. The lands of Wards Estate and the surrounding lands were owned by the Lairds Of Buchanan from 1225, when a charter was granted by the Earl of Lennox to Maurice, Chief of the Buchanans. When the last Laird of Buchanan died in 1681, the lands were bought by the third Marquis of Montrose, whose family home at Montrose had been destroyed by fire. Buchanan House then became the principal seat of the Montrose family. In 1852, Buchanan House was almost completely destroyed by fire when the Duke and his family were in London for Christmas. All that remained was part of the servant’s wing at the rear. A new home was designed by William Burn on higher ground nearby and completed in 1855. However in 1925, the family were crippled by death duties, and so the house became a hotel and then a military hospital during the Second World War.  In 1955, the roof was stripped to avoid land taxes and sadly lies in ruins today.

Part of the lands were sold off in the late 19th Century to become Wards Estate, which was a Tileworks prior to becoming a successful working farm. The current owners acquired Wards Estate in 2005, and have developed High Wards into a luxurious self-catering house and stunning wedding venue.

Jim and Emily Morrison have travelled extensively and lived abroad during their careers. They are now raising their children and developing the estate to conserve and enhance the natural and cultural heritage of the area. This should increase the enjoyment of locals and tourists of the Loch Lomond National Park, woodlands and scenery of the estate. The proposed development will continue the diversification of the farm while at the same time being sympathetic to the development guidelines of the National Park. As guests have said, it is rare to find a holiday rental where the owners are so invested and passionate about making your stay memorable. Nothing is too much trouble for the Wards Estate staff during your stay.