Neolithic farmers, iron age settlers, clan dynasties and, in the 20th century, the infrastructure of war all left their mark on Islay, but the way the island looks and works today stems primarily from the 18th and 19th centuries.

Starting with the Campbells of Shawfield, who bought much of Islay in 1726, the impact of Georgian and Victorian ambition was of exceptional significance. Their story, along with those of other landowners, is one of grand ideas, some realised, some thwarted. Other significant influences on island life during this time came from national and international developments.  Changing attitudes to religion, education, agriculture and industry all left their imprint and contributed to a legacy that remains in both buildings and landscapes.

This book vividly records the island’s built heritage as well as the stunning physical beauty of its landscape, and is informed by history and local memory freely given by the islanders themselves.