Helensburgh & Clyde Sea Lochs

Don’t miss the opportunity to visit Helensburgh. The town is easy to reach, with regular direct trains from Glasgow and Edinburgh, and Helensburgh Upper Station is on the world famous West Highland Line.

Named for Helen, the wife of Sir James Colquhoun who founded the town in the late 18^th Century, Helensburgh developed into a grand Victorian seaside resort for the wealthy merchants of Glasgow. Of the many architectural gems in the area, the finest is surely Charles Rennie Mackintosh’s internationally renowned Hill House, currently protected by an award-winning architectural chainmail ‘Box’ which offers visitors a unique perspective from its walkways.

Helensburgh is a great place to explore, with a fantastic range of unique independent shops and galleries, and a market twice a month. There are also many wonderful eateries to enjoy, with everything from patisserie and cosy cafés to award-winning restaurants or fish and chips on the seafront promenade.

The ‘Garden City of the Clyde’, Helensburgh is also famous for its tree lined streets, particularly the spectacular Spring cherry blossom, and beautiful gardens nearby include Geilston and Glenarn. Families are well catered for with the Helensburgh Leisure Centre and play facilities at Hermitage Park, and boat trips on the River Clyde allow visitors to get up close to the famous Sugar Boat shipwreck and maybe even see some dolphins!

The free Discover Helensburgh App features over 50 places of interest, 8 self-guided trails and family fun activities. If you are feeling adventurous, Helensburgh is also a great base to explore the John Muir Way, Three Lochs Way, Argyll Sea Kayak Trail and Clyde Sea Lochs Trail, all of which pass through the town. There is a busy local programme of events and activities and you can find the latest listings on the Destination Helensburgh website or in their Visitor Information Centre in the town.