Balloch Castle Country Park: Historic Charm on Loch Lomond’s Shores
Explore historic ruins, enchanting trails, and breathtaking Loch Lomond views at Balloch Castle Country Park’s 200-acre natural haven.
Balloch Castle Country Park, nestled on the southeast shores of Loch Lomond near Balloch village, is a sprawling 200-acre public country park featuring the romantic ruins of Balloch Castle, extensive ornamental gardens, woodland trails, and family-friendly amenities. This serene park offers stunning loch views, a magical Fairy Trail, and a children’s play area, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and families alike.
A brief summary to Balloch Castle Country Park
- Loch Lomond, The Highlands, Drymen Rd, Alexandria, Balloch, G83 8LX, GB
- +441389758134
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes to explore the extensive walking trails and varied terrain throughout the park.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the many scenic spots overlooking Loch Lomond.
- Visit the Fairy Trail for a magical experience with whimsical wooden sculptures, perfect for families.
- Check the walled garden opening hours (typically 10am–3pm) to include this beautifully restored area in your visit.
- Bring your dog along; the park is dog-friendly with ample space for pets to roam.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train and Bus
Take a train to Balloch station from Glasgow Queen Street, a journey of approximately 40–50 minutes. From Balloch station, the park is a 20-minute walk along well-marked paths. Local buses also connect Balloch with nearby towns, with frequent services during the day. Tickets cost around £5–£10 depending on starting point.
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Car
Driving from Glasgow to Balloch Castle Country Park takes about 35–45 minutes via A82. Free parking is available near the park’s main entrance on Drymen Road. Note that parking can be busy during summer weekends and events. The roads are well maintained and accessible year-round.
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Boat
For a scenic arrival, take a loch cruise or waterbus from the River Leven jetty in Balloch. Services connect to destinations like Luss and Balmaha. The boat ride offers unique views of the park’s shoreline and typically lasts 30–60 minutes. Tickets range from £10–£20.
Balloch Castle Country Park location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Balloch Castle Country Park
Historic Roots and Architectural Legacy
Balloch Castle Country Park is steeped in history, with origins tracing back to the 11th century when the lands were granted to the Lennox family. The original medieval Balloch Castle, built around 1238, now survives only as earthworks and a moat, offering a glimpse into Scotland’s medieval past. The present Balloch Castle, constructed in 1808 by Glasgow merchant John Buchanan of Ardoch, showcases Tudor Gothic architecture designed by Robert Lugar. Though now a picturesque ruin, the castle remains a focal point within the park, commanding impressive views over Loch Lomond and its surroundings.Expansive Natural and Designed Landscapes
Spanning 200 acres, the park combines semi-natural woodland, open parkland, ornamental gardens, and shoreline paths. Visitors can explore diverse areas such as the Chinese Garden, Quarry Pond, Kitchen Garden, Secret Garden, and the Pleasure Grounds. The park’s layout and design have remained largely unchanged since the early 19th century, preserving its historic character. The walled garden, refreshed through a Heritage Lottery Fund grant, adds a formal horticultural highlight, open daily from 10am to 3pm.Family-Friendly Attractions and Trails
Balloch Castle Country Park is ideal for families, featuring a large, fully enclosed children’s play park near the loch shore that ensures safe and engaging fun. The enchanting Fairy Trail, created by local artist Patrick Muir, winds through wooded areas with whimsical wooden sculptures of fairies, tree spirits, and mythical creatures carved from tree stumps, sparking imagination for visitors of all ages. Well-maintained walking paths, including the scenic Waterside Way, offer leisurely strolls along Loch Lomond and the River Leven.Events and Cultural Significance
The park serves as a vibrant cultural venue, hosting the annual Loch Lomond Highland Games every July, celebrating Scottish heritage with traditional sports and festivities. It has also been the site for major concerts by renowned bands such as REM, Oasis, and Runrig, drawing large audiences and adding a lively dimension to the park’s character. These events underscore the park’s role as both a natural retreat and a community gathering place.Visitor Amenities and Accessibility
Open year-round with 24-hour access to the grounds, Balloch Castle Country Park offers picnic benches, seating areas, and public toilets near the castle (open 9am–2:30pm in winter). While the castle itself is closed to interior visits, the surrounding parkland is freely accessible with no admission fee. The park is dog-friendly and encourages visitors to follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. Nearby Balloch village provides additional food and drink options, enhancing the visitor experience.Scenic Vistas and Outdoor Experience
The park’s location on Loch Lomond’s southeast shore affords breathtaking panoramic views of the loch’s tranquil waters and surrounding hills. Visitors can enjoy peaceful lakeside walks, birdwatching, and photography opportunities throughout the seasons. The combination of historic architecture, natural beauty, and recreational facilities makes Balloch Castle Country Park a quintessential Scottish country park experience.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Historic Scotland
10.5 km
Discover the architectural beauty and historical significance of Historic Scotland in Port Glasgow, a perfect destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Argyll Walks
10.7 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Scotland with Argyll Walks, where guided tours meet stunning natural beauty and rich cultural experiences.
Loch Lomond
11.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Loch Lomond, Scotland's largest freshwater lake, offering stunning landscapes and endless outdoor adventures.
Blantyre Monument
12.1 km
An 80-foot obelisk in Bishopton honoring Major-General Robert Walter Stuart, the 11th Lord Blantyre, and his Napoleonic War legacy.
Formakin House
12.2 km
Discover Formakin House, a stunning castle in Bishopton, surrounded by breathtaking nature and steeped in rich Scottish history.
Lyle Fountain
13.0 km
Historic Victorian drinking fountain in Greenock’s Cathcart Square, gifted by Abram Lyle with elegant filigree dome and rich local heritage.
Auchmountain Glen
13.2 km
Explore Auchmountain Glen: A historical gem in Greenock offering stunning landscapes, rich culture, and serene walking trails for every traveler.
Pandamonium Play Centre
14.2 km
Visit Pandamonium Play Centre in Erskine for an unforgettable day of fun and excitement for children, featuring interactive play zones and lovable mascot entertainers.
Lyle Hill Viewpoint
14.6 km
Experience the stunning vistas and tranquil ambiance at Lyle Hill Viewpoint, a must-visit scenic point in Greenock, Scotland.
Golden Hill Antonine Wall Fort
14.7 km
Discover the ancient history at Golden Hill Antonine Wall Fort in Clydebank, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing Roman military architecture.
Granny Kempock Stone
15.8 km
Explore the enchanting Granny Kempock Stone in Gourock, a historical landmark that blends folklore with breathtaking coastal views, ideal for every traveler.
Loch Lomond National Park Memorial
16.1 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Loch Lomond National Park Memorial, a serene tribute nestled in Scotland's breathtaking landscapes.
International Asbestos Memorial
16.8 km
Discover the International Asbestos Memorial in Clydebank, a serene place of reflection honoring victims of asbestos-related diseases.
Titan Clydebank
16.8 km
Explore Titan Clydebank, a historic shipbuilding landmark offering stunning views and rich maritime heritage in the heart of Clydebank.
Walkinshaw Brickworks
17.8 km
Explore the historic site of Walkinshaw Brickworks, a cornerstone of Renfrew’s industrial past and Scottish brickmaking heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park
0.3 km
Explore Scotland’s largest lake and diverse landscapes where lowlands meet highlands in a vast national park rich in wildlife and adventure.
Maid of The Loch
0.7 km
Explore Scotland’s last paddle steamer, the Maid of The Loch, a historic vessel and museum on Loch Lomond’s scenic southern shore.
SEA LIFE Loch Lomond Aquarium
0.9 km
Discover Scotland’s largest shark collection and playful otters in an immersive underwater journey on the stunning shores of Loch Lomond.
Hawkshead
1.0 km
Experience the perfect blend of stunning loch views, outdoor adventures, shopping, and family-friendly fun at Loch Lomond Shores.
Loch Lomond Shores
1.0 km
A dynamic waterfront destination blending shopping, dining, outdoor adventures, and stunning views on Loch Lomond’s southern shore.
Sweeney's Cruise Co Loch Lomond
1.1 km
Relax and explore Loch Lomond’s stunning landscapes aboard Sweeney’s comfortable and informative cruises from Balloch.
Balloch
1.1 km
Discover Balloch, the charming gateway village to Loch Lomond, blending scenic beauty, rich heritage, and family-friendly adventures on Scotland’s iconic loch.
Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre
1.2 km
Discover majestic birds of prey up close in a serene woodland sanctuary on the shores of Loch Lomond.
Loch Lomond Seaplanes
1.4 km
Discover Scotland’s stunning landscapes from the sky with thrilling seaplane flights over Loch Lomond and beyond.
Caulders Garden Centre Loch Lomond
1.5 km
Discover vibrant plants, unique gifts, and award-winning dining set against the stunning backdrop of Loch Lomond’s hills.
Duck Bay
1.8 km
Tranquil lakeside retreat with stunning Loch Lomond views, cozy rooms, and welcoming dining on Scotland’s scenic shores.
Ben View Antiques
2.3 km
Discover timeless antiques and vintage treasures in the heart of Alexandria’s Lomond Galleries at Ben View Antiques.
The Cruin
2.9 km
Elegant dining and unforgettable weddings on the serene shores of Loch Lomond within private estate gardens.
Auchentullich Farm Shop
4.8 km
Discover authentic Scottish farm produce and heritage at Auchentullich Farm Shop, a family-run gem near Loch Lomond.
Loch Lomond National Nature Reserve (Endrick Mouth)
6.0 km
Experience the serene beauty and rich wildlife of Scotland’s iconic Loch Lomond National Nature Reserve at Endrick Mouth.
Essential places to dine
Jurassic Grill Loch Lomond
1.0 km
Family-friendly dinosaur-themed restaurant near Loch Lomond offering fun decor, interactive service, and hearty British-style meals.
Mavi Kitchen & Bar
1.0 km
A vibrant grill and Mediterranean kitchen in Balloch offering great food, friendly service, and a lively atmosphere from breakfast to late night.
Waterhouse Inn Balloch
1.0 km
Traditional Scottish inn with modern comforts, warm hospitality, and a prime location near Loch Lomond’s scenic beauty.
The Pier Kitchen & Bar
1.1 km
Enjoy fresh Scottish flavors and stunning Loch Lomond views at The Pier Kitchen & Bar, Balloch’s scenic dining destination.
Tullie Inn
1.1 km
Charming Scottish pub and inn by Loch Lomond offering hearty fare, cozy rooms, and stunning waterfront views in Balloch.
Cucina
1.1 km
Savor hearty Italian classics and vibrant atmosphere in Balloch’s contemporary Cucina, near the scenic Loch Lomond.
Lomond Fish Bar
1.1 km
A classic Scottish fish and chip shop in Balloch, serving golden battered fish, thick-cut chips, and hearty pies in a no-frills, family-run setting.
The Lounge at Loch Lomond
1.2 km
Authentic Indian flavors and warm hospitality await at The Lounge, your relaxed dining spot near Loch Lomond in Balloch.
The Boat House
1.2 km
Waterfront dining with panoramic Loch Lomond views in Scotland's premier lakeside resort.
McDonald's
1.4 km
Classic American fast food served 24/7 in Balloch, near Loch Lomond’s scenic beauty and top attractions.
Duck Bay Hotel & Restaurant
1.7 km
Scenic lochside retreat with modern dining, cozy rooms, and warm Scottish hospitality on the banks of Loch Lomond.
Inchmurrin Restaurant
3.7 km
Dine on fresh local fare with stunning Loch Lomond views on the peaceful, ferry-accessed Inchmurrin Island.
The Riverside Bar & Restaurant
4.0 km
A welcoming Scottish pub and restaurant in Bonhill offering traditional fare, lively nights, and a friendly community vibe on Main Street.
The Clubhouse at Cameron
4.5 km
Modern European dining with scenic views at Cameron Club & Spa on Loch Lomond, offering fresh, locally inspired dishes and warm hospitality.
Haveli Family Buffet Restaurant
7.5 km
A family-run buffet in Dumbarton offering a vibrant mix of Indian, Chinese, and Western dishes with friendly service and great value.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Personalised Drinks Company Ltd
0.6 km
Crafting bespoke beverages tailored for weddings and special occasions in the heart of Balloch, Alexandria.
Wild Highlands Coffee House
0.7 km
Savor premium small-batch coffee with breathtaking Loch Lomond views at Balloch’s iconic Maid of The Loch pier.
Leading Labels Ltd
0.9 km
Discover stylish designer fashion and accessories at Leading Labels Ltd, nestled in the scenic beauty of Loch Lomond Shores.
Loch Lomond News
1.0 km
Discover Loch Lomond News, your local hub for newspapers, souvenirs, and a taste of Scottish culture amid breathtaking landscapes.
Grape Tree Loch Lomond
1.0 km
Discover organic health foods and wellness products in the heart of Loch Lomond Shores, where nature meets nutrition.
Loch Lomond Jewellers
1.0 km
Discover exquisite jewellery and luxury watches in the heart of scenic Loch Lomond Shores, blending craftsmanship with natural beauty.
French Connection
1.0 km
Discover stylish contemporary fashion at French Connection within the scenic Loch Lomond Shores retail village in Balloch.
Camille Lingerie
1.0 km
Explore the elegance of Camille Lingerie in Balloch, where comfort meets style amidst the beauty of Loch Lomond.
Catherine Kinloch
1.0 km
A traditional Scottish shoe shop offering comfortable, well-made footwear in the heart of Loch Lomond Shores – perfect for updating your walking shoes with a view.
Phase Eight at House of Fraser
1.0 km
Elegant women's fashion and occasionwear at Phase Eight inside Frasers, set against the stunning backdrop of Loch Lomond Shores.
House of Fraser
1.0 km
A comprehensive department store nestled in the scenic Loch Lomond Shores, offering fashion, beauty, and homewares for the whole family.
thorntons, Balloch Franchise Store
1.0 km
Premium British chocolates at Scotland's gateway to Loch Lomond, nestled in a world-class leisure destination.
Clarins House of Fraser Loch Lomond
1.0 km
Experience premium Clarins beauty products in the elegant House of Fraser store, set against the stunning backdrop of Loch Lomond Shores.
Keepsake Scotland
1.0 km
Modern Scottish gifts and souvenirs in a scenic Loch Lomond Shores setting, blending tradition with contemporary charm.
Loch Lomond Gift House
1.0 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and Highland wear in the heart of Balloch, just steps from Loch Lomond’s scenic shores.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Balloch House
1.0 km
Historic Scottish pub and hotel offering cozy charm and lakeside access at the gateway to Loch Lomond.
Dog House
1.0 km
A lively, dog-friendly pub in Balloch blending traditional charm with modern comfort and vibrant local spirit.
Monkey Island Cafe Bar
1.1 km
Relax riverside with stunning Loch Lomond views, great drinks, and friendly vibes at Monkey Island Cafe Bar in Balloch.
Glenroy Bar
1.1 km
A lively Scottish bar in Balloch blending local charm, Indian flavors, and live entertainment in a warm, welcoming setting.
Queen Of The Loch
1.3 km
A friendly pub and inn near Loch Lomond offering hearty meals, comfortable stays, and a welcoming atmosphere for families and pets alike.
The Lobby Bar
1.4 km
Elegant bar at Cameron House offering refined drinks and stunning Loch Lomond views within a historic Scottish estate.
The Tavern
1.5 km
Lively family-friendly bar with hearty fare, live sports, and local music at Cameron House on scenic Loch Lomond.
Great Scotts Bar
1.5 km
Discover Scotland’s whisky heritage with over 250 whiskies and stunning Loch Lomond views at the Great Scots Bar, Cameron House’s iconic lochside retreat.
Fentons Bar
1.6 km
A friendly and affordable pub in Jamestown, Alexandria, offering a warm local atmosphere and late-night socializing on Main Street.
The Old Vale Bar
3.3 km
Historic Scottish pub blending traditional hospitality with a cozy, modern vibe in the heart of Alexandria.
Waverley Bar
7.6 km
A cozy and friendly pub in Dumbarton’s West Bridgend, offering local ales, live music, and a spacious beer garden for a true Scottish experience.
The Lennox Bar
7.7 km
A classic, welcoming pub on Dumbarton's High Street offering affordable drinks and a genuine local atmosphere.
The Burgh Bar
7.8 km
A welcoming and lively pub on Dumbarton's High Street, known for its friendly vibe and late-night social scene.
The Captain James Lang - JD Wetherspoon
7.8 km
A welcoming JD Wetherspoon pub in Dumbarton serving classic British fare and local ales in a casual, accessible setting.
Argyll Bar
9.2 km
A cozy and traditional Helensburgh pub offering lively entertainment, local charm, and a welcoming atmosphere on East Clyde Street.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Desire Nightclub
1.1 km
Experience Balloch’s vibrant nightlife at Desire Nightclub, where energetic music and welcoming vibes create unforgettable evenings.
Red
12.9 km
Experience Greenock’s vibrant nightlife at Red Nightclub, where intimate vibes meet lively dance floors and affordable fun every weekend.
Word Up
13.0 km
Experience Greenock's revitalized nightlife at Word Up, a modern nightclub with vibrant energy and a welcoming atmosphere.
Club 69 Paisley
20.7 km
Dive into Paisley’s legendary underground techno scene at Club 69, where pulsating beats and vibrant vibes keep the night alive.
Fantoosh
21.2 km
A lively, intimate nightclub in Paisley’s heart, perfect for energetic nights with friends and local beats.
Vienna's Nightclub
21.2 km
Experience Paisley’s vibrant nightlife at Vienna's Nightclub, where energetic music and lively crowds come alive every weekend.
The Berkeley Suite
25.4 km
Discover Glasgow’s hidden vintage nightclub with top DJs, retro vibes, and an intimate dancehall atmosphere beneath a 1940s ballroom.
Seventh Heaven Lap Dancing Club
25.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Glasgow at Seventh Heaven Lap Dancing Club, where entertaining performances meet a lively atmosphere.
Firewater
25.7 km
Dive into Glasgow's indie nightlife at Firewater, where two rooms blast alternative anthems, cheap entry fuels the fun, and Sauchiehall Street's energy ignites until 2:30am Thu-Sat.
Saint Judes After Dark
25.9 km
Glasgow's electrifying after-dark escape: pulsating DJ beats, craft cocktails, and retro club vibes fuel nights until 3am on Bath Street.
The Plug Glasgow
26.0 km
Experience Glasgow’s premier Afrobeat nightclub where Nigerian wedding vibes meet luxury nightlife and vibrant celebration.
Buff Club
26.0 km
Dive into Glasgow's funky basement beats at The Buff Club, where soul, disco, and 80s grooves light up the night under disco ball magic.
The Savoy
26.1 km
Experience Glasgow’s vibrant weekend nightlife at The Savoy, a lively nightclub on Sauchiehall Street pulsing with music and energy until dawn.
142B Lounge
26.3 km
Experience Glasgow’s vibrant Afrobeat and Amapiano hotspot with stylish vibes, great music, and authentic African flavors.
Bamboo
26.3 km
Glasgow’s energetic three-room basement nightclub offering affordable drinks and diverse music for a lively student crowd.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
