Greenock is a small port town on the south bank of the River Clyde in Scotland that has much to offer both locals and visitors alike. It is home to many historical attractions, making it a great place for sightseeing. Located on the Firth of Clyde, it is steeped in history, yet modern in its amenities and attractions. With a vibrant community and many things to do, Greenock has something for everyone.
If you’re traveling for business or pleasure, have some extra free time and are planning to hire a taxi from Greenock to Glasgow Airport, you’ll probably want to know more about the things you can explore in Greenock.
Here are some of the must-see things in Greenock that you should consider visiting when you’re in the area.
The Custom House
The Custom House in Greenock, Scotland is a beautiful structure that has been standing since 1817. This building is an important part of the town’s history and its architecture is a must-see for any visitor to the area. Located on the Waterfront at India Street, the Custom House is a popular destination for visitors as it offers stunning views of the River Clyde and a glimpse into Greenock’s past.
Originally serving as a customs house where revenue was collected from ships entering the port, today it has been transformed into an attraction with something to offer everyone. Visitors can explore the upper floor of this grade-A-listed building which houses interactive displays and artifacts from days gone by, including historic maps and archival documents. The old weighbridge can also be seen here along with a touchscreen display featuring information about ships that used to use Greenock’s docks.
The lower floors of the building are open to the public too and contain interesting memorabilia from across 200 years of history including models of ships that used to leave from Greenock’s docks. There are also exhibitions dedicated to prominent figures from local history such as Robert Burns, who died in 1796 aged 37 after being taken ill while visiting friends in nearby Paisley.
Explore the seafront
One of the main attractions of Greenock is its stunning seafront, with promenades offering unparalleled views across Clyde. One can enjoy these views while taking a gentle stroll along the waterfront or try their hand at some of the activities available such as paddle-boarding or kayaking. You can also explore nature with trips out to Dunoon or admire one of the unique sculptures scattered around the seafront such as “The Hand” or “The Wave”.
The Battery Park
Another important attraction is Battery Park, which overlooks The Esplanade and the River Clyde. This park was built by Thomas Telford and features gardens, statues and memorials dedicated to local figures, including James Watt who invented the steam engine here in Greenock in 1773. Visiting this park will give you an opportunity to learn about one of Scotland’s greatest inventors and engineers.
For those who enjoy exploring outdoors, there are ample opportunities in Greenock – from historical walks like The Cut which meanders through parts of old Victorian Industrial Scotland to hikes up nearby hillsides providing breathtaking views across Firth Of Clyde Bay. For those looking for something more energetic, there are several excellent bike trails weaving their way through Inverclyde’s many parks, forests, and coastline paths making this an ideal destination for cycling enthusiasts as well as families seeking an adventure outdoors.
Gyle Shopping Centre
If you’re looking for something more contemporary than historic sites, then consider visiting Gyle Shopping Centre – one of Scotland’s largest shopping centres with over 60 stores spread across two floors. You’ll find everything from clothing stores to supermarkets here, so there’s plenty of choice for shoppers looking for bargains or high-end brands alike! In addition, there are several restaurants located inside the centre where you can enjoy meals or simply have a drink after all that shopping!
McLean Museum Art Gallery
The last must-see thing in Greenock is the McLean Museum Art Gallery – housed inside a former courthouse building dating back to 1848. This museum features several interesting collections focusing on local history, such as shipbuilding, clockmaking, and industrial heritage, as well as artworks from notable Scottish artists like William McTaggart and James Paterson. Even if you don’t have much time to spare during your visit here, make sure you take at least a quick look around this impressive building before leaving!
Overall, Greenock has plenty of interesting sights that will keep any visitor entertained for hours on end! From historic sites like The Custom House to more modern attractions such as Gyle Shopping Centre – there’s something here for everyone! So why not make your way down to this small town on Scotland’s west coast and experience it all on your way to Glasgow?
