Helensburgh

Helensburgh is renowned for its spectacular display of cherry blossom at the end of April/beginning of May. The streets running from east to west have been lined with cherry trees and the further "up the hill", the later the trees come in to bloom.

The Clyde Coast and Sea Lochs Trail provides an interesting glimpse of Scotland's west coast; driving through Dumbarton, Cardross and Helensburgh along the north shore of the Clyde, you come to Garelochhead and Loch Long. A leaflet on this fascinating tour is available from the local tourist information centre.

Charles Rennie Mackintosh designed The Hill House for the Blackie publishing family. For more information about this renowned architect, click here

Dumbarton Castle and Rock - just off Glasgow Road, Dumbarton - is open all year. (01389 732167 for opening hours). The rock - a volcanic plug, attracts some interest from climbers - more information here. For some general information about Dumbarton, Click Here.

Also in Dumbarton is the Denny Ship Model Experiment Tank, Castle Street, Dumbarton. The Denny Tank was the first commercial ship model testing tank built in the world (1882) It's a fascinating place to visit.

Activitiesin theHelensburghArea

From Carman Hill, Cardross there is a magnificent view over the Clyde Estuary. Carman Stables located in Renton, West Dunbartonshire is a friendly Livery Stable and Riding School for all who have the welfare of Horses at heart. Why not visit the website at Carman Stables

Shandon Country Pursuits offer off-road driving, quad bikes, clay target shooting, archery and much more. Telephone 01436 820838On the Clyde - sail "Doon the Watter" on the paddle steamer 'Waverley' which is the world's last seagoing paddle steamer (July and August). Pleasure cruises are also available on board the MV Second Snark and MV Rover from May to September. These trips can be booked at Helensburgh Tourist Information Office. There is a daily ferry service running between Kilcreggan, Helensburgh and Gourock.

Click here for a picture of one of Clyde Marine's ferries leaving Helensburgh pier.

This site gives some fascinating pictures of the steam ships which sailed the Clyde

Scotrail - includes details of the famous West Highland Line which passes through Helensburgh.

CityLink Bus Services including pdf timetables.