McCaig's Tower, also known as McCaig's Folly, is the most recognisable landmark in Oban. Standing high on Battery Hill, it offers some of the best views across Oban Bay, the Isle of Mull, Kerrera, and the surrounding Inner Hebrides. If you arrive into Oban by ferry, you'll spot its striking circular structure overlooking the town.
The monument was commissioned by John Stuart McCaig, a wealthy local banker, who wanted to create a lasting family tribute and provide winter work for local stonemasons. Inspired by Roman architecture, McCaig designed the Tower with a Colosseum-style shape, featuring 94 granite arches built using stone from Bonawe quarry. It spans roughly 200 meters in circumference and boasts 94 arches, 50 on the top tier and 44 on the bottom tier.
McCaig died in 1902 before the project could be completed, leaving the monument as the open-shell structure seen today.
Inside the Tower is a peaceful garden with benches where visitors can sit and take in panoramic views of Oban. On a clear day, you can see the islands of Lismore, Kerrera and the Isle of Mull, and watch CalMac ferries moving in and out of the bay. Please have a look at our guide to things to do in Oban.
The Tower is a short but steep walk from Oban town centre. Many visitors climb the 144 steps of Jacob's Ladder before continuing up to the viewpoint. The walk takes around 20 minutes, depending on fitness.
There is also a small car park right beside the Tower, around 10 minutes' drive from the centre, though the roads are narrow and steep. A sloped path provides disabled access, though it remains quite steep in places.
Even unfinished, McCaig's Tower has become an iconic symbol of Oban thanks to its architecture, history, and superb views. It's one of the best free things to do in the town and a must-visit stop on any trip to the West Coast.
Yes, entry is free and open year-round.
Most visitors spend around 20–40 minutes exploring the gardens and enjoying the views. On a nice day, you could sit for hours.
Yes. There is a small car park beside the Tower, but spaces are limited, and the road is narrow.
No, it does not have toilet facilities.
McCaigs had intended for the structure to accommodate a museum, art gallery, and statues of his family, but those plans never came to fruition after his passing.
