Tobermory village burgh with its delightful different coloured houses (as seen in the children BBC production, 'Balamory'), around the natural harbour home to sailing and fishing boats is the islands capital, located in the north east side of the island on the Sound of Mull. The village was founded as a fishing port in 1788, based on the famous engineer Thomas Telford designs.
Tobermory means "Mary's Well" dedicated in ancient times to the "Virgin Mary".
There is a legend which suggests that there is a Spanish galleon laden with gold bars lying on the muddy seabed of Tobermory Bay. Despite modern day divers efforts no real evidence of a galleon has been found.
The coloured seafront buildings are mainly shops and restaurants. There is a bank and cash point, the Isle of Mull Museum, and the Tobermory Distillery, producing popular Tobermory non peated malt whisky and Ledaig (pronounced 'Le-chic' and meaning 'safe haven') peated malt whisky. There is a visitor centre and whisky tour in the summer months. Also an aquarium, a brewery, An Tobar Arts Centre and a clock tower on the harbour, an attractive landmark. Eateries in Tobermory cater for all tastes and budgets. Cafe Fish serve local freshly caught fish and shellfish with flair and style and the fish and chip van on the Fisherman's Pier serves a hale and hearty fish supper. The local Bakery and Chocolate Shop are also a must visit for those with a sweet tooth and a desire for excellent coffee. There are 3 pubs and a garage as well as several craft shops and boutiques. Tobermory has an offshore lifeboat station and a small marina complex with aquarium.
There is a small scenic golf course and a stunning coastal walk to the lighthouse, Rubha nan Gall with seaviews to Morven hills Tobermory is home to a lively traditional music and arts scene. Throughout the year An Tobar plays hosts to many traditional and folk musicians as well as art exhibitions.
Festivals Include:
The Isle of Mull Music Festival - Traditional Scottish Music and 'good craic' throughout the Tobermory pubs in April Mendelssohn on Mull Festival - After Felix Mendelssohn's Hebridean Overture in relation to Fingal's Cave on the Isle of Staffa - July Isle of Mull Highland Games - Mid-Late Summer Gaelic MOD in September Mull Fiddlers Rally in September
Please see our Events Diary for exact dates.