Inveraray – Day trip
A marvellous day out, Inveraray is on the western bank of Loch Fyne north of Arrochar beyond the ‘Rest and be Thankful’. Inveraray Castle was used in the series Downton Abbey for a Christmas
Special. The Bell Tower dominates the town and houses the second heaviest ring of ten bells in the world and is open to the public spring /summer. You can also walk to the Tower on the hill (path starts behind the castle) which offers stunning views the length of Loch Fyne and over surrounding mountains any time of year. The George Hotel in the main street is renowned for great food.
Glasgow – Day trip
A city of amazing architecture as you walk the streets. The easiest way to travel is by train (45 min journey) from either Helensburgh Central or Balloch Central stations. The train takes you into Glasgow Queen Street station, next to George Square in the centre of the city. Boasting great pubs, restaurants and of course shops. There are many museums that are FREE such as the Riverside Museum, Kelvingrove Museum and Gallery. The famous Burrell collection is also located in Pollock Park, along with the historic Pollock House.
West Highland Line (train to Oban or Fort William and Mallaig) – Day trip
Considered by many to be the most scenic rail journey in the world. Boarding the train at Helensburgh Upper Station the train carries you north along the west coast, through the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park until the line splits at Crianlarich, carrying you either past Loch Awe to the west coast ferry/fishing port of Oban, or high up to Rannoch Moor, through remote wilderness and on to Fort William and Mallaig. Taking the train onto Mallaig you cross the Glenfinnan Viaduct, used in the Harry Potter films for the Hogwarts Express. Views from the train are amazing in any weather!
https://www.scotrail.co.uk/scotland-by-rail/great-scenic-rail-journeys/west-highland-line-glasgow-oban-and-fort-williammallaig
Regarded as one of Britain’s best drives, the A821 road between Aberfoyle and Loch Achray leads you through some of the most scenic parts of the iconic Trossachs landscape.https://forestryandland.gov.scot/visit/forest-parks/queen-elizabeth-forest-park/dukes-pass
The preserved buildings from the 1700s give an authentic insight into how people lived and worked in the north and west of Scotland. You can wander freely around the houses and farm buildings furnished with everyday objects from time gone by.
If the outdoors is your thing then there are mountains in abundance to suit all levels of walkers. Ben Lomond, Scotland’s most southerly Monroe (a mountain over 3,000ft high), just one of 283 in Scotland. Starting point is at Rowerdennan on the east side of loch lomond. Well worth it for the views of Loch Lomond as you […]
