Ferry House, Ardentinny

Ferry House in Ardentinny is a small but distinctive building, likely dating from the early 1800s. It serves as a reminder of Ardentinny's historical role as a ferry port until the early 19th century. This small rectangular-plan rubble structure contributes significantly to the local streetscape.

The ferry house was associated with the ferry service connecting Ardentinny to Coulport across Loch Long. It is believed to have functioned as a waiting area for ferrymen when ferries operated on demand. This route was vital for transporting fish and supplies from Loch Fyne to Glasgow, supported by a new road from Strachur built around 1805.

In later years, the building likely also served as a waiting room for passengers being rowed to the steamer that operated between Lochgoilhead and Dunoon. By the time of the first edition Ordnance Survey map, the ferry point at Ardentinny was no longer mentioned.

The ferry house is a simple single-storey structure facing the road, with a single entrance accessed by two stone steps. On the seaward side, there are two openings: an upper one reached by a modern timber external stair, and a lower door that leads to a lower room.

In recent years, the Ferry House has been renovated, which included the addition of the external stair and rooflights. The stone jetty was also concreted and extended during this renovation. As of 2004, the building is used for storage by the Ardentinny Outdoor Centre.

The materials used in its construction include stone rubble with cement pointing, a slate roof with overhanging eaves, and stone stacks topped with modern clay cans.