Top Things to do in West Dunbartonshire
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The 7 Best Historic Sites in West Dunbartonshire, Scotland
Discover the best top things to do in West Dunbartonshire, United Kingdom including Dumbarton Castle, Scottish Maritime Museum, Dumbarton, Balloch Steam Slipway, Overtoun House, Maid of the Loch, Old Kilpatrick Heritage Trail, Balloch Castle.
Restaurants in West Dunbartonshire
1. Dumbarton Castle
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 480 reviews
This site is closed for now. We’re working hard to gradually reopen the places you love while making sure the experience is safe for everyone. Dumbarton Castle is located in the ancient capital of Scotland and is spectacularly sited on a volcanic rock overlooking River Clyde. Conquer more than 500 steps to stand atop one of Scotland’s greatest strongholds. The iconic Rock of the Clyde has heritage as breathtaking as its views over the Clyde, Loch Lomond and Argyll. This dramatic volcanic plug, which is Dumbarton Rock, in-filled the crater of a volcano that was active 350 million years ago. Admire great examples of 18th century Georgian military architecture and stunning views from the Tower Crag. Throughout Dumbarton Castle’s long history it has been a royal residence and a fortress, and has fascinating connections from the Vikings to the Scottish Wars of Independence.
Reviewed By Barry2137 - Donaghadee, United Kingdom
Still under continuous restoration this is one of Scotlands interesting history spots with fantastic views of the surrounding area, depending on how high you want to clime the many stairs. The notice boards give an informative guide into the history of the Castle and its purpose in past times , and some interesting facts about the Scottish Royals ? A great place to visit so don't drive past go in and enjoy.
2. Scottish Maritime Museum, Dumbarton
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 237 reviews
The Denny Ship Model Experiment Tank, part of the Scottish Maritime Museum, is a fantastic collection of working exhibits, models and artefacts based in the last remaining building of Alexander Denny and Sons one of the Clydes most famous and innovative shipyards.
Reviewed By cameronag - Rosneath, United Kingdom
William Denny built ships on the Clyde at Dumbarton for 120 years. This museum, sister to the Scottish Maritime Museum at Irvine, is the last surviving element of the business which built the Cutty Sark, the TS Queen Mary, and many other familiar vessels. The museum occupies the buildings which were once the principal design offices and model test tank. The test tank is the prime exhibit, being 100m long and dominating the building. This was the first commercially operated hydrodynamic test tank in the world (the first ever was built in Torquay by the Admiralty). Even today this is considered the 'mother tank' of all test tanks and a bottle of Denny tank water is used to 'christen' any new tank across the world. Despite, or because of, its size the tank is a relatively small part of the experience as the really interesting stuff is the work that went on around it. Each visit starts with a personal introduction to the facility, beginning with the model-making and testing process. Beyond that there are the trace analysers and the draughting offices, to explore, together with exhibits explaining the history of the site and the company, the work done on propeller and cutting edge hull design, and models of some of the landmark craft Denny's was responsible for, such as the D2 experimental passenger hovercraft. This really is the ultimate steam-punk museum experience. Don't just trundle arround the Glasgow Transport Museum, take a trip 'doon the watter' to Dumbarton as well
3. Balloch Steam Slipway
4. Overtoun House
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 45 reviews
Reviewed By BrandonF141 - Murrieta, United States
To be completely open, we actually came to see the bridge. The bridge is known for a weird phenomena that drives canines crazy and has them leap to their death. It is thought that it is haunted or it could simply be the mink smell. The House itself is very nice. From what we understand, they serve a nice tea.
5. Maid of the Loch
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 130 reviews
Built in 1953 and one of the last paddle steamers in Britain, you can walk around the ship and enjoy the views over Loch Lomond. Our engines are now 'in steam' for the first time in 39 years, come onboard and watch the engines & paddles move (not enough for us to sail just yet)!. We are now taking wedding & event bookings as we have just spent £1.1million on renovations so if you are looking for something a little different to show your family & friends enquire now about prices. We are now open Wednesday's to Sunday's from 11am - 5pm until the end of October. Admission is £3 per person with kids under 12 getting on for free. Plenty of kids activities to keep them busy! Our first 'In Steam' event of 2020 will be on Saturday 29th & Sunday 30th August. Admission is £5 per person (kids under 12 free). All funds go back into keeping the ship running.
Reviewed By 275DavidW - Paignton, United Kingdom
We visited this Paddle Steamer which is static at the moment with very friendly helpful staff on board being very informative on the history of the former Loch Lomond Paddle Steamer with some good informative video's about the history. The aim in the future is to restore it to running order so it'll be able to offer trips around the loch again which would be great to see. On board snacks are served.
6. Old Kilpatrick Heritage Trail
7. Balloch Castle
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 1 reviews
