Straddling the River Leven at the base of Loch Lomond, Balloch is a charming village en route between Glasgow and the West Highlands. It’s the launching point for loch cruises and home to a SEA LIFE aquarium, as well as one of Europe's last steam-operated winches.
Things to do in Balloch
Dominating the waterfront of Balloch is the SEA LIFE Loch Lomond Aquarium, which is home to more than 1,500 creatures from across the globe. Walk through the shark-filled Tropical Ocean Tunnel and get up close to cheeky otters before getting hands-on in the interactive rock pools. Also nearby is the historic Balloch Steam Slipway and the 1953 “Maid of The Loch” paddle steamer.
Sprawling north-east of the town centre is Balloch Country Park, which was originally established in the early 19th century by John Buchanan and is home to the Scottish baronial-style residence of Balloch Castle. Stretch your legs along one of the nature trails and explore the walled garden, which is particularly magnificent when the rhododendrons and azaleas are in bloom.
One of the best ways to explore Loch Lomond is with Sweeney's Cruise Co, which offers daily tours of the South Basin. Soak up the majestic scenery as you cruise past the stately homes and castles that dot the shore and visit storied Inchmurrin Island. Not only is it the largest of Loch Lomond’s islands but it features the remains of Lennox Castle where Robert the Bruce sheltered in the 14th century.
Getting around Balloch
Balloch is around 40 minutes’ drive from Glasgow and 25 minutes from Glasgow Airport, which has flights to destinations across Europe, North America and the Middle East. The North Clyde electric railway connects Glasgow to Balloch while the town is small enough to explore on foot.