Around the year 1098 Magnus Barefoot, King of Norway, had his longship carried across the isthmus at Tarbert to signify his possession of the Western Isles.

Despite its distinction as a strategic stronghold during the Middle Ages, Tarbert's socioeconomic prosperity came during the Early Modern period, as the port developed into a fishing town.

The Annals of Ulster attest that in 731, Dúngal burnt a "Tairpert Boitir", which was most probably Tarbert and was at the time in the lands of the Cenél nGabráin.

[4] Around the year 1098 Magnus Barefoot, King of Norway, had his longship carried across the isthmus at Tarbert to signify his possession of the Western Isles.

This castle was captured from John MacDonald by James IV of Scotland as part of his campaign to destroy the power of the Lords of the Isles.

There are only a couple of standing walls left which have been stabilised, allowing removal of fencing and closer access for visitors.

The castle has a very commanding view of the water approaches.The coast of Tarbert Bay is rocky and the cliffs are fringed with young firs, the village itself being an extremely tranquil and beautiful place.

In addition to the Seafood Festival, Tarbert also plays host to the Scottish Series, which usually takes place in the last weeks of May every year.

[12] Begun in the early 1800s, Tarbert Fair was originally a place where farmers and crofters would barter cattle, wool, and other goods.

Today, however, the Fair is all about entertainment, with a suite of fairground rides, arcades, and fast food outlets that stretch along the harbour walls.

The village is served by a Caledonian MacBrayne ferry service, which connects Tarbert with Portavadie in the Cowal peninsula during the summer, and Lochranza on Arran in winter.