Helensburgh in Scotland, Scottish Regions, Travel Destinations

Helensburgh - A Friendly Tourist Destination

The town of Helensburgh is located on the River Clyde and was originally founded in the 1600s. The Ardencaple Castle was built next to the small coastal town, but was destroyed by Sir Ian Colcyuhoun in the year 1776, for the construction of spa baths on the site and building of the town that he dedicated to Helen, his wife. Today, there is not much left to suggest that Ardencaple Castle ever existed, but the beautiful blossoming trees that line the street of Helenburgh and the breathtaking Victorian architecture has attracted thousands of visitors over the years.

As a destination in Scotland, Helensburgh has everything a peaceful town should be able to offer. The historical atmosphere of the town is seen amongst the hotels, cafes and pubs, but with a touch of modernization in the retail outlets and private businesses. The most exquisite example of an architectural masterpiece is Hill House. The architect for Hill House was Charles Rennie Mackintosh and features a beautiful garden surrounding the house. It was constructed for Walter Blackie, a publisher from Glasgow, and was completed in the year 1904.

Helensburgh also has two very important historical figures in their heritage, namely John Logie Baird, who was the pioneering mind behind the invention of televisions, and Henry Bell. There were two memorials erected in Kidston Park to honor these two men. Henry Bell was the very first sea-going steamboat operator in the world with the construction of the Comet, and the last sea-going paddlesteamer, the Waverly, still docks in Helensburgh. This magnificently restored steamer offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy a wonderful trip on the water.

The railway stations in Helensburgh also form part of the rich heritage of the town, adding to this wonderful destination in Scotland. The first railway and railway station was constructed in the year 1858 to deal with railway traffic from Dumbarton and Glasgow. In 1894, with the arrival of railway lines from Loch Long, Clyde and others, a second railway station was constructed to take care of the trains and passengers that arrived from these new destinations. Visitors are able to connect with Oban, Glasgow and Fort William via rail.

Visitors will find Helensburgh to be a tranquil and peaceful town that is steeped in history but still has the capability to cater for the modern lifestyle. It you are yachting or merely passing through, you will be able to enjoy the hospitality of the locals and the beauty of the area.