Helensburgh

Situated in Argyll and Bute on the north shore of the Fifth of Clyde, Helensburgh is a former Burgh within the Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park. The town was founded in 1776 when Colquhoun Sir James of Luss built spa baths outside the town next to the Ardencaple Castle. In 1808 he bought the public baths and hotel while he continued his interest in early steamboats. He introduced Europe’s first successful steamboat service bringing passengers from Glasgow to Greenock and Helensburgh.

Around 45 years later, holidaymakers were brought to the resort and Helensburgh the second railway station was built in 1894. Helensburgh is notable as birthplace of John Logie Baird, the inventor of the television. The town is also also known as birthplace of the academy award-nominated actress Deborah Kerr and Jack Buchanan.

Nowadays, Helensburgh is a popular destination for day trippers and is served by three railway stations. The town has a population of more than 20,000 people and serves as a main shopping centre for the area. The seafront attracts visitors to have a walk along the esplanade where you can find a number of shops, cafes, and pubs and the sailing club of Helensburgh. A regular ferry runs from Helensburgh to Kilcreggan and Gourock.

For those who like to play golf, there is a golf club with views on the town of Clyde and the Loch Lomond with the Trossachs hills in the background. Other sports represented in the town are: football, rugby, athletics, bowling, hockey, curling, fishing, and many more. Helensburgh has a number of annual events such as the annual firework display on Guy Fawkes Night and the Real Ale Festival at the Victoria Halls.

Tourist Information

The Clock Tower, East Clyde Street

Helensburgh

Tel. 01436 672642

(Open April-Oct)

Nearby places to visit

The Waverley Paddle Steamer