Est. 1774

Our Story

A building that has served Killearn for more than two centuries — from stables and mill to the pub and kitchen we know today.

Historic photograph of Balfron Road and The Old Mill

1774

The beginning

The building was built and, for many years, was used by the village carter to stable his horses in the buildings through the arch. The carter's business, later run by Willie McCready, continued until 1924.

The village carter with his horse and cart at Killearn

1924

A weaving mill

The building was converted into a weaving mill. The looms were removed in the 1970s, and Miss McCready was based here as a handloom weaver.

A pipe band marching through Killearn village past The Old Mill

1951

The Stone of Destiny

The Stone of Destiny was famously stolen on Christmas Day 1950 from Westminster Abbey. Miss McCready had connections with the Glasgow School of Art and was a friend of Wendy Wood, an ardent campaigner for Scottish independence. It is possible that Miss McCready was involved in hiding the Stone of Destiny. Giving the building a place in Scottish history.

Daily Record front page, December 1950 — Nation-wide hunt finds no sign of Stone
Newspaper report — Scottish border closed in the hunt for the Stone of Destiny

1980

The local pub

The weaving equipment was removed and the building was converted into the local pub, beginning a new chapter as a village gathering place.

The Old Mill on Balfron Road as a local village pub

Present

The Old Mill today

The Old Mill is enjoyed by Killearn locals and many tourists from around the world. The pub sits along the route of the famous West Highland Way and close to Loch Lomond, Ben Lomond and Conic Hill, with spectacular views over to the West of Scotland.

Guests enjoying drinks in the busy beer garden at The Old Mill

Historical details courtesy of the Killearn Heritage Trail.

Reservations

A table is waiting

Book a table for lunch, dinner, or Sunday roast, and we will save you a seat by the fire, in the yurt, or in the garden.