The Grave of Duncan Campbell (& Archibald McDonald), Ardnave, Islay, Inner Hebrides

Islay,

Those with an interest in Scottish clan history may be surprised to find a Campbell and a MacDonald interred together.

https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/2979850

55.88644187315443, -6.333767365084151

Indeed there is some confusion over whether a member of each great clan rests here together, or if one merely wished to see the other committed to the earth. One thing that is for certain is that Duncan Campbell (1753-1825), formerly resident of nearby Ardnave House, lies in the lonely grave overlooking near Ardnave Point on Islay in the Western Isles. What is less clear from the faded, somewhat confusing inscription, is whether Archibald McDonald (1803-1873) lies with him.

Campbell's epitaph states that: "He was interred in this spot by his own particular desire, and of Archibald McDonald, eldest son of Hon: Archibald McDonald, born 17th August 1802 [date unclear], died 3rd May 1878".

Sources:
https://marccalhoun.blogspot.com/2019/10/islay-to-cork-day-6-kilchoman-ardnave.html
https://www.highlandtitles.com/blog/clans-scotland-macdonald/
https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/2979850

Where?

The grave is in the middle of the peninsula a short distance south-west of Ardnave Point. A path to the grave heads north from just east of Ardnave. Limited parking is available at the trail head.

Getting there

Public -

Opening times

Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday

Author Tom Moran

Added on 14/08/2026

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