The approach to Ullapool and the Summer Isles

The approach to Ullapool and the Summer Isles

ID: QZP40_CARD_1500 DESCRIPTION: The road into Ullapool on Loch Broom, with the Summer Isles in the distance. Ullapool began in 1788 as a planned village, designed by Thomas Telford for the British Fisheries Society to exploit the boom in the herring fishing industry. The streets were laid out on a grid pattern and some of the new buildings included curing sheds, storehouses, a pier and a schoolhouse. At first, the new fishing village was a success but in the early 19th century the herring deserted Loch Broom and by the 1830s the industry was in decline. In the 20th century, however, Ullapool's harbour found a new role as the east coast fishing fleet began to use it as a safe anchorage in the west. In the 1970s and 1980s the village's economy was also helped by the arrival of East European factory ships. These have now gone but the harbour remains a focal point in the village, being the terminus for the car ferry service from Stornoway. The spectacular scenery and the many hillwalking opportunities in the surrounding area make Ullapool a popular tourist centre. Just up the coast from Ullapool, opposite Achiltibuie, are the Summer Isles. There are about two dozen small islands, some of which can be accessed by boat from Achiltibuie or Ullapool during the summer months. They are popular with nature lovers who come to see the birds, flowers, seals and porpoises. PLACENAME: Ullapool DISTRICT: Lochbroom OLD COUNTY/PARISH: ROSS: Lochbroom SOURCE: Highland Libraries COLLECTION: Highland Libraries' Postcard Collection Asset ID: 33421 KEYWORDS: