Helensburgh

Named for Helen, the wife of Sir James Colquhoun who founded the town in the late 18th Century, the town of Helensburgh developed into a beautiful Victorian seaside resort for the wealthy merchants of Glasgow.

Visit Charles Rennie Mackintosh’s internationally renowned Hill House (NTS), currently protected by an award-winning architectural chainmail ‘Box’ which offers visitors a unique perspective from its walkways, the Outdoor Museum, or the Scottish Submarine Centre museum. Families are well catered for with the Helensburgh Leisure Centre, the waterfront Skate Park and play facilities at Hermitage Park, or visit Ardardan Estate to say hello to their Highland Coos!

In the Spring, Helensburgh truly lives up to its name as the ‘Garden City of the Clyde‘, with beautiful cherry-blossom lined streets, and fabulous gardens at Glenarn and Geilston (NTS).

Visitors can get outdoors on the Three Lochs Way, John Muir Way, Argyll Sea Kayak Trail or Clyde Sea Lochs Trail, or follow one of the town trails in the free Discover Helensburgh App.

Helensburgh is a great shopping destination, with a fantastic range of unique independent shops and galleries, and there are also many wonderful eateries to enjoy, with everything from patisserie and cosy cafés to award-winning restaurants. You can also get fish and chips or an ice cream to enjoy on the Pier!

The town is always busy with local events like markets, craft fairs, concerts, theatre and sporting activities. You can find out more at the What’s On Calendar on the Destination Helensburgh website, where you can also find other visitor information.

Helensburgh is easy to reach with direct trains from Edinburgh and Glasgow, and on the West Highland Line. There is also public parking on the waterfront at the Leisure Centre giving direct access to the Pier, including EV charging facilities.

Scroll to Top