Go to the Main Scottish Cave and Mine Database Search Page

King Robert's Cave

Sron Uaidh, Inversnaid, Loch Lomond, Stirlingshire.

Not actually a cave, but a small shelter under a natural rock feature. Possibly a boulder cave or just an overhanging rock. Associated with King Robert I (Bruce or The Bruce).

Alternative Names: None recorded.

Notes: The OSA account claims there are many caves (probably boulder caves or rock shelters) in this area and specifically names King Robert's Cave. The story is told of how Robert Bruce, defeated by the Douglases at Strathfillan near Tyndrum, retreated down the east side of Loch Lomond into country held by the Buchanans. Near the mouth of Glen Arklet at a place later called Sgiath an Righe, he sheltered in a crevice below a rock. Waking while it was still dark, he found himself not alone but fearful of being discovered he kept still with his hand on his sword. When dawn came he discovered he was sharing the shelter with a goat. It is claimed this inspired him to make a law proclaiming goat pastures free from land tax, as with the goats around he could sleep safely knowing anyone approaching would disturb the goats waking him in time to prepare to fight or flee. [OSA]