Things to do in Inverclyde

Our most recommended things to do in Inverclyde

Greenock: Shore Excursion to Stirling Castle and Loch Lomond

Greenock: Shore Excursion to Stirling Castle and Loch Lomond

Explore the majestic scenery of the Trossachs National Park and discover where the Scottish Highlands meet the Lowlands. Learn more about some of the nation's heroes at historic castles and monuments. Following a pick-up from Greenock Port, travel northeast into the Trossachs, known as “Scotland in Miniature” for the craggy hills and sparkling lochs. Discover where writers such as Sir Walter Scott found their inspiration. Continue into “Braveheart” country to see the magnificent landscapes of Stirlingshire and Stirling Castle, the latter arguably one of the most important castles in Scotland. The Old Town of Stirling is still surrounded by its 16th-century walls, built to protect Mary Queen of Scots from Henry VIII. Enjoy some free time to tour the castle and learn about the exploits of Robert the Bruce. Then enjoy some refreshments at the café, before driving into the heart of the Trossachs and the home of the folk hero Rob Roy MacGregor and his “Children of the Mist.” Go to Kilmahog to get up-close to Highland cattle. Then journey to the village of Aberfoyle just below the Highland fault line. Stop for a bite to eat before travelling through Trossachs National Park to the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond. Marvel at one of the largest lochs in Scotland and see many of its islands. Enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding mountains before the return journey through Campsie Fells to Greenock Port and your drop off.

From Glasgow: Isle of Bute Day Trip with Mount Stuart Entry

From Glasgow: Isle of Bute Day Trip with Mount Stuart Entry

Start your day trip from Glasgow, heading along the south shores of the Clyde Estuary. Relax and enjoy the stunning views across the Firth of Clyde to the Argyllshire Sea lochs and Highland mountains. Traveling through the seaports of Greenock and Gourock, you continue down to the North Ayrshire coast to the quaint ferry port located at Weymss Bay. Take a deep breath as you sail across the Firth of Clyde before disembarking at Rothesay, the largest town on the Isle of Bute. Continue the journey on to the ancestral seat of the marquesses of Bute, Mount Stuart, a spectacular 19th-century neo-gothic mansion boasting ornate Gothic revival architecture. Explore the wonderful grounds which was the first Scottish home with electricity and an indoor heated swimming pool. After a short jaunt around Mount Stuart, get back on the bus and relax as your driver-guide takes you for a scenic drive around the south side of the island. Take in the spectacular views across the Firth of Clyde, making stops along the way. Then, get ready to curl your toes in the sand of the West Coast's beautiful beaches. Keep an eye out for Bute's beautiful wildlife, from red squirrels to otters. Head back to Rothesay and get free time to sample the local cuisine, explore the promenade, grab a souvenir, or take in the castle ruins. Next, jump back on the ferry and enjoy the journey back to Glasgow.

From Glasgow: Scotland Sightseeing Tour Shore Excursion

From Glasgow: Scotland Sightseeing Tour Shore Excursion

Meet your guide at the meeting point at the port of Greenock (Glasgow) and depart by bus over the Clyde River and onto the southern tip of the Scottish Highlands. Enjoy narration enhanced by Scottish music and movie sound bites setting the scene for the sights you are about to see. Your first stop is at An Ceann Mor with a vantage point overlooking Loch Lomond. This recent creation fits into the landscape due to its wooden composition and offers spectacular views of Scotland's most picturesque loch. As you travel onwards, make a brief stop at The Green Welly Stop for refreshments and a little souvenir hunting. Your next stop is at Kilchurn Castle, a ruin that was originally built on an island on Loch Awe in the 15th century. A short walk across a causeway gives you access to this magnificent former home of Sir Colin Campbell that has lain in ruin over the centuries. Spend time viewing the fantastic surroundings as you photograph the ruins before heading to your next destination. Arrive at Inveraray and visit the family seat of the Duke of Argyll where you can wander the halls and visit the castle armoury (Closed to public on Tuesdays). While in Inveraray, take the opportunity to sample Scottish cuisine at one of the town's delicious eateries. With your appetite sated, head to a stunning viewpoint overlooking a magnificent Scottish glen at the Rest and be Thankful mountain pass where you can capture a picture-perfect image of Scotland. The final destination before heading back to your ship is at the small village of Luss. Take time for last-minute souvenir shopping and some light refreshments as you wander around this lovely little village. Visit the church built by Sir James Colquhoun of the Clan Colquhoun where you’ll find some early medieval graves and evidence of Viking presence in the area.

Glasgow Shore Excursion Incl. Loch Lomond and the Trossachs

Glasgow Shore Excursion Incl. Loch Lomond and the Trossachs

By air conditioned coach/mini-coach from the Port Terminal, we head to wards Stirling Castle, with a stop en-route for refreshments Our licensed official guide will provide an interesting commentary, full of local information. Our first stop is Stirling Castle (entrance fee not included) - a great opportunity for photos. A stop in a local village where you have the opportunity to choose your own location for lunch. We then head via the Trossachs to Loch Lomond - experience the most beautiful scenery with ample photo opportunities. 'If your ship is not Porting for the full duration of the tour to be operate, we ensure your return to the ship on time, normally 1 hour prior to your sailing. In this event, time spent at each location will be reduced slightly'.

From Greenock Cruise Terminal: West Highland Private Tour

From Greenock Cruise Terminal: West Highland Private Tour

Start your day with a pickup by your driver at the door of the cruise arrivals hall. Climb aboard the minibus with your personal group and embark on a very scenic and memorable tour. This tour is fully flexible, you can suggest adjustments and changes to the tour itinerary, even on the day. If time and geography allow, your driver will strive to meet your requests. Luss Enjoy your first stop after a 45 minute drive from Greenock in the village of Luss on the Western short of the Loch Lomond. Walk past the sandstone and slate cottages to the pier with it's wonderful views across to Ben Lomond and up and down the Loch. A very short walk and into the atmospheric Luss Graveyard which has graves dating back to the 5th and 6th centuries.. Marvel at a Viking grave from the 11th century complete with a Viking Hogback Stone on this 30 minute stop. Tyndrum A scenic drive of 60 minutes as we head north and into the Highlands proper and start transitioning into a bigger and wilder landscape. Passing through Tyndrum, altitude increases and we arrive at the elevated Loch Tulla viewpoint, a great place to enjoy the Highland expanse. Rannoch Moor One of the last wilderness areas in Europe, a vast area of bogs, small lochs (lochans), streams and rock outcrops. There are numerous stopping points where you can walk away from the road and soak in the atmosphere of this remarkable place. Our return to Tyndrum gives a far bigger and grander view of the Rannoch Moor wilderness. At Tyndrum we turn right into the beautiful county of Argyll. Kilchurn Castle. Built around 1450, this long abandoned castle is still very impressive, it sits at the top of Loch Awe ringed by mountains both close by and distant makes for a very memorable visit. There are Highland Cattle living in the vicinity and hopefully they will be visible and very close when you view the castle. 30 minute visit Inverary. Inverary, on Loch Fyne is a lovely village in a grand scenic setting on the western shore of Loch Fyne, as well as strolling in the village, a walk to the picture perfect Inverary Castle is very popular for visitors. There are shops worth browsing for souvenirs, an excellent whisky shop which will let you sample some quality Scotch. There are also some food takeaways, although tour guests love the Loch Fyne Oyster Bar which we pass on our way to our next stop, the take-away fish and chips is the favourite and siting at the outdoor tables with wonderful views of the Loch and Mountains somehow makes them even more delicious. 30 minute stop. The Rest and be Thankful. The famous pass called The Rest and Be Thankful divides Glen Kinglas from Glen Croe. On top is a viewpoint with beautiful views of Glen Croe where you can clearly see the old valley road which was engineered by General Wade during the subjection of Scotland following the Jacobite rebellion. 10 minutes Return to Greenock 50 minutes scenic drive. This tour is fully customisable.

Greenock Cruise Terminal; Stirling Castle and District Tour

Greenock Cruise Terminal; Stirling Castle and District Tour

A tour that is ideal for cruise ship visitors, combining Scottish scenic beauty with the history of Stirling and its district. This tour is fully flexible, you can suggest adjustments and changes to the tour itinerary, even on the day. If time and geography allow, your driver will strive to meet your requests. Stirling Castle Stirling Castle is one of the largest and most important castles in Scotland, historically and architecturally. The castle sits high on a volcanic outcrop, guarding the lowest crossing point of the River Forth. There is a lot to be discovered and enjoyed in the castle. 60 minutes Entrance Fee The William Wallace Monument Just a 8 minute drive from the Castle, this iconic monument is 220 feet high and sited on top of Abbey Craig hill above the fields, where in 1297, Wallace led his troops to victory at The Battle of Stirling Bridge. There are 276 steps to the top. 40 minutes Entrance Fee Old Stirling Bridge A short drive from The Wallace Monument brings us to Stirling Bridge. The present Stirling Bridge was built in the 1400s replacing a succession of timber bridges. In 1297 William Wallace defeated Edward 1's forces at The Battle of Stirling Bridge. If your time allows we will make extra stops, which will let you see so much more. An example is stopping in the Cathedral District of Glasgow on our way to Stirling. This is always a very welcome addition for guests. There are other options as well, this tour is fully customisable to your requirements

Greenock Ocean Terminal; Half-Day Tour to the West Highlands

Greenock Ocean Terminal; Half-Day Tour to the West Highlands

This tour for you and your personal group is fully flexible, you can suggest adjustments and changes to the tour itinerary, even on the day. If time and geography allow, your driver will strive to meet your requests. Your day begins at the door of the cruise arrivals hall at Greenock Ocean Terminal, then a 45 minute drive from Greenock along the River Clyde then across the Erskine Bridge and into the Highlands. Enjoy your first stop in the village of Luss on the Western short of the Loch Lomond. Walk past the sandstone and slate cottages to the pier with it's wonderful views across to Ben Lomond and up and down the Loch. A very short walk and into the atmospheric Luss Graveyard which has graves dating back to the 5th and 6th centuries.. Marvel at a Viking grave from the 11th century complete with a Viking Hogback Stone on this 30 minute stop. Travel to The Rest and Be Thankful, only a 27 minute scenic drive from Luss. Passing through Arrochar, at the head of the fjord, Loch Long, you will drive through high and steep sided Glens before arriving at The Rest and Be Thankful, traditionally for travellers and drovers to rest at the top, and be thankful for having made the highest point. For centuries the pass has been affectionately known as The Rest and Be Thankful, or simply 'The Rest'. Inverary, on Loch Fyne is a lovely village in a grand scenic setting on the western shore of Loch Fyne, as well as strolling in the village, a walk to the picture perfect Inverary Castle is very popular for visitors. There are shops worth browsing for souvenirs, an excellent whisky shop which will let you sample some quality Scotch. There are also some food takeaways, although tour guests love the Loch Fyne Oyster Bar, the take-away fish and chips is the favourite and siting at the outdoor tables with wonderful views of the Loch and Mountains somehow makes them even more delicious. Leaving Inverary we have a very scenic 65 minute journey along the east shore of Loch Fyne and through the heart of the Cowal to Kirn at the entrance to the Holy Loch and onto an open ferry. Make the 15 minute crossing of the Firth of Clyde on the small open deck ferry boat and admire the views up and down the Firth and back towards the steep sided glens. We drive ashore just 10-minutes away from your cruise ship.

From Glasgow or Edinburgh: Scottish Whisky Tour

From Glasgow or Edinburgh: Scottish Whisky Tour

Discover the ultimate tour for whisky lovers and get a real taste of life in the Highlands and Scottish countryside. Your driver, a Scottish whisky ambassador, will share their knowledge and stories with you along the way, and may even stop for an extra dram or 2 along the way. Begin your adventure by heading across the Forth River and heading up to the Highlands where you will stop at your first distillery, the world-famous Dalwhinnie Distillery, which was built in 1897 and is Scotland's highest distillery. Break for lunch at the famous House of Braur, where you can also pick up gifts and souvenirs from your time in Scotland. Afterward, head to your second distillery, Blair Atholl, which is the oldest working distillery in Scotland and was founded in 1798. If time permits, stop at one more distillery on the way back to your hotel for one final tasting.

From Greenock: The Kelpies, Stirling Castle, and Loch Lomond

From Greenock: The Kelpies, Stirling Castle, and Loch Lomond

Discover the best of Scotland on a full-day tour from Greenock. Visit the Kelpies, Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond, and the Trossachs National Park. Stop for lunch at a local eatery and explore the charming village of Luss. Start your tour with a drive through Glasgow city center towards the Kelpies. Located on the Forth and Clyde Canal near Falkirk, the Kelpies are the world's largest equine sculptures. Standing 30 meters tall and weighing over 300 tons each, they are a tribute to the heavy horses that powered Scotland's industry and agriculture in the 18th and 19th centuries. Next, visit Stirling Castle, a symbol of Scotland's turbulent past and royal legacy. Uncover tales of kings, queens, and legendary battles that have shaped the nation's history. With origins dating back to the early medieval period, the first recorded use of the site as a royal residence and fortress was back in the 12th century. Significant construction and development of the castle took place, particularly under the reigns of James IV, James V, and James VI, who transformed it into a major royal palace. After the wonders of Stirling Castle, enjoy a delicious lunch at a nearby eatery (cost not included). Following lunch, head in the direction of Loch Lomond and the Scottish Highlands. Drive through Scotland’s First National Park, The Trossachs. This breathtaking region of rolling hills and serene lochs inspired some of the works of the famous novelist Sir Walter Scott. The region's dramatic landscapes and rich history provided the perfect backdrop for the writer's story on the adventures of the titular Scottish folk hero, Rob Roy. Your final stop will be the Highland village of Luss on Loch Lomond. Located on the western side of the loch, there has been a settlement in this location for centuries. Walk the charming streets, pick up a few souvenirs, and enjoy the views from the ‘Bonnie Banks’. Then, make your way back to Greenock cruise terminal in plenty of time before your ship departs.

From Greenock: Inveraray and the West Highlands

From Greenock: Inveraray and the West Highlands

Discover the beauty of the Scottish Highlands on a shore excursion from Greenock. Explore the charming town of Inveraray, visit the scenic village of Luss, and take in the stunning views of Loch Lomond and Loch Fyne. After being collected from the Greenock cruise terminal, head north, crossing the River Clyde and heading towards the Scottish Highlands. Your first stop is the scenic village of Luss, nestled on the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond. Here you’ll have time to explore the village and take in the sights of Scotland’s largest loch. From Luss, your journey continues deeper into the National Park. Your route will take you into Argyll and over the ‘Rest and Be Thankful’ – a stunning mountain pass viewpoint which divides Glen Kinglas from Glen Croe. The name comes from a stone inscribed by soldiers who built the original military road in 1753, expressing their gratitude for reaching the summit. Pause here to enjoy the views and learn about the history of this spot. After this short stop, the road opens up onto Loch Fyne which is famous around the world for its succulent seafood, including oysters, langoustines, and mussels. Work your way into Argyll, arriving in the charming town of Inveraray – a former royal burgh and the ancestral home of the Duke of Argyll and Clan Campbell. The streets here are lined with elegant buildings characterized by their white-washed facades and black window frames. Stop here for lunch, and explore the town at your leisure. Visit Inveraray Castle and Gardens, where you can discover the fascinating stories of Clan Campbell, one of the most influential Scottish Clans. Take the opportunity to explore the opulent rooms and picturesque gardens of this striking castle, which has stood on the shores of Loch Fyne since the 1400s. *Please Note - The Castle is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. You can still walk part of the castle estate and photograph the castle exterior on these days.* After exploring Inveraray, we'll stop for lunch at a nearby restaurant. After lunch, continue around the quiet side of Loch Fyne towards Loch Eck – a hidden gem located on the western most side of the national park, surrounded by lush forests and serene landscapes. Here, visit Pucks Glen, where you can enjoy a walk surrounded by nature. Follow the winding paths to find numerous cascading waterfalls and feel the magical atmosphere. *Please Note - A visit to Pucks Glen is weather dependant. Access to this site may be restrcited over the 2025 season* As your shore excursion draws to a close, journey back to the Greenock port via a short ferry crossing over the ‘watter’, giving you time to reflect on the incredible journey you’ve taken through Scotland’s first national park and ancient clan lands.

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