Dunoon and Cowal has a population of about 10.000 people with easy transport links to Glasgow with is only 30 miles away. With the exception of internationally renowned Dunoon Mugs, there are few manufacturing industries in the town, leaving tourist and local government at the major employers in the area.

Dunoon is unique, that while being close to Glasgow, it is also on the edge of the Highlands with the breathtaking scenery of the Argyll Forest Park only a short drive away. There are many attractions in and around Dunoon for visitor to enjoy. However, the highlight of the year must be the Cowal Highland Gathering which takes place on the last weekend of August each year.

This world famous event provides the venue for the World Highland Dancing Championships and the Cowal Gathering Pipe Band Competitions, which are second only to the World Pipe Band Championships. Both competitions draw entries from all over the world and concludes on the Saturday evening with a spectacular march-past of the over 1.000 pipers and drummers through the streets of Dunoon to mark the end of the Games.