St Fillans
This summary profile is taken from the St Fillans Community Action Plan published in 2008.
Location
The community of St Fillans is situated at the eastern end of Loch Earn. It comprises the village of St Fillans, a small community outlying the village and a string of individual houses on the loch’s southern shore. It lies 30 miles west of Perth, 60 miles from Glasgow and 60 miles from Edinburgh. It is uniquely situated in both Perth and Kinross Council area and the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park Authority area.Population
St Fillans has an estimated population of 224 people, the majority of whom live in the village of St Fillans. The age-structure of St Fillans residents has changed considerably in recent years with a decline in the number of people in the 18 to 40 age group and more than 75% of people aged 40 and over. 25% of people are aged 65 and over.Housing
There are 130 houses in St Fillans and of these 91 have permanent residents (Census, 2001). The number of holiday and second homes has doubled between 1991 and 2001 and now accounts for 27% of housing stock in the community. There is currently no social housing provision in St Fillans. The average house price in St Fillans is very high at just under £300,000.Employment and The Local Economy
52% of economically active people commute to work in Stirling, Perth, Comrie, Crieff or Edinburgh.Tourism and leisure (in particular the 3 hotels and large caravan site) are by far the biggest employers in St Fillans. The number of people employed in traditional industries like agriculture and forestry has declined over the past 10 years.
The village is the base for a diverse range of businesses and consultancies, many of which are home-based.
Social and Community
The Community Council is very active and takes forward issues on behalf of the community. St Fillans Community Trust Limited is currently being established and will be able take forward projects for the community.There are many different local groups and clubs in St Fillans. These include everything from drama groups to lunch and book clubs. There are many local events including a summer festive weekend, bon-fire night and a Hogmanay party.
St Fillans has a range of local services which include:
- A village shop/ café.
- Many local hotels and pubs
- The Sandison Hall
- Dundurn Parish Church
- Many other services are available in the nearby towns of Comrie and Crieff.
Environment and Recreation
The local environment is St Fillans’ major asset. Situated at the eastern end of Loch Earn, surrounded by spectacular hills and scenery, its natural beauty makes it an attractive place for residents and visitors alike.There is an abundance of flora and fauna in the area including areas of ancient woodland and protected species such as osprey, eagles, red kites, otters and bats.
There are many recreational opportunities in the St Fillans area including: water sports on Loch Earn, hill-walking, cycling, golf, river and loch fishing. St Fillans has its own golf-club and there is a sailing club on Loch Earn.
There is a small recreational area behind the Drummond Hotel, which is used by the children for football, but no play area.
Heritage
St Fillans has a rich cultural heritage.Important cultural sites and buildings include:
- Dunfillan Hill - This hill at the eastern edge of the village is associated with the missionary Faolan, from whom the name St Fillans derives
- Dundurn Cemetery - this is the ancient burial place of the Stewarts of Ardvorlich
- The Queen of Lochearn. This was a popular steamer which operated until the outbreak of WorldWar 2. She made two daily trips between St Fillans and Lochearnhead
- Neish Island - This island was used by the Clan Neish in the 17th century
- Legend tells of a raid on the island by the Clan McNab (from Killin) which almost wiped out the Clan McNeish
- Sandison Hall - The village hall is named after Alexander Sandison, who bequeathed his extensive library to the residents of St Fillans