It is a surprisingly long walk from the car park to the actual entrance to the boat jetty although there are plenty of seats dotted along the way if it does get too much. One at the jetty it is good fun for kids to ring the bell to call the ferryman who comes quickly from the opposite side of the river bank. You are given a very friendly welcome as you step in the boat as well as a very knowledgable introduction to the history of Threave and the the wildlife and fauna to be seen on the lake. Once on the island, the guide showed us a family of ravens nestling in the alcove of the tower and for that reason we were unable to go into the upper levels for fear of disturbing the birds. The grounds are very peaceful and would be a perfect picnic spot. read more