A coastal town in western Scotland, there are plenty of things to do in Largs and around.
Largs is a hidden gem in the west coast of Scotland that is definitely worth exploring.
Be it the town itself or the surrounding regions and islands, there is something for everyone! Check out our recommendations on what to do in Largs, where to stay and where to eat!
Explore Western Scotland
When it comes to visiting Western Scotland, it is an hidden gem waiting to be explored.
With plenty of choices to see and do, this part of Scotland is dotted with isles and lovely landscape.
Tourists hardly venture to this side of the country, and it is a postcard perfect destination to be away from the buzz of the city.
Most importantly, it’s only a stone’s throw away from Glasgow, and an hour of extra drive from Edinburgh.
There are plenty of options to choose when it comes to west coast of Scotland.
And in this post let’s focus on exploring the seaside resort town Largs and surrounding areas.
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Know more about Largs Town
Largs is 79 miles from Edinburgh (1 hr and 50 mins by drive) and 32 miles from Glasgow (50 minute drive). Largs sits on the Firth of Clyde in North Ayrshire hugging the west coast.
The town is ideal for exploring Western Scotland and the isles around. Due to its proximity to 2 big cities, Largs is an ideal choice of weekend getaway.
The town’s history dates back to 1263 as a site of Battle of Largs fought between Vikings and Scots. This Viking heritage is still celebrated at the annual Viking Festival.
Top Things To Do In Largs And Around
1. Explore Largs town
Largs is a beautiful seaside town small enough to pack for a weekend getaway and to unwind a busy week. There are plenty of walking routes and options in Largs.
Stroll along the Victorian promenade soaking in the sweeping views it offers.
Begin the walk from Largs War Memorial and pass through Largs ferry terminal. Soak your feet in Largs Bay Beach.
Alternatively take a selfie with the huge viking statue Magnus the Viking. The giant Viking Sculpture (you can see the picture below) was created in 2013 to commemorate 750th anniversary of the battle.
You can also follow the footpath and walk to Largs Pencil Monument, which sits on the other side of town. Pencil monument was built to commemorate the Scottish victory at the 1263 Battle of Largs. It is a perfect place to spend time with family or do picnic. There are public toilets near by.
If you are up for a short hike, take the hike to Haylie Brae Viewpoint, that offers panoramic views of Largs, and Cumbrae island.
Route begins from Douglas park from where you need to ascend uphill following the signpost.
Largs town can be seen in a day, but there is plenty of things to do around this region. Hence we totally recommend a few days.
The town is also dotted with many cafes, restaurants and icecream parlours. There is a seafront car parking facility available.
2. Visit Kelburn Castle and Country Park
Kelburn Castle and Country Park is located in Fairie town, only 2.3 miles away from Largs. It is home to beautiful graffiti castle. Kelburn castle is a private residence and seat of Earl of Glasgow and head of clan Boyle since 12th century.
The Boyle family invited 4 Brazilian artists to paint the exteriors of the castle with their graffiti art. And in no time since its completion this castle attracted many tourists around. The country park has many walking routes, glens and flora as well.
Also Read: Guide to visiting Kelburn Castle and the Country Park
3. Greenock and Lyle Hill Viewpoint
Greenock is a coastal town (45 minutes drive from Largs) and a busy port on the south bank of Clyde River for many centuries. Shipbuilding industry has been thriving since 17th century.
The town has also been used as Battery Park and torpedo factory during the world wars.
Walk around the west end of Greenock which has retained their Victorian charm.
Alternatively, visit Old West Kirk church which dates back to 1591 and features stained glass work by artists like Dante Gabriel Rossetti. Or simply head over to Lyle Hill and enjoy the panoramic views across Clyde.
4. Hop over to Isle of Cumbrae
Only a short ferry trip from Largs is Isle of Cumbrae (Great Cumbrae), one of Scotland’s most accissble island.
With only 4kms long and 2 kms wide, this isle is ideal holiday island for weekend and outdoor activities.
Be it cycling or walks, or enjoying the island’s diverse wildlife, you will never be disappointed.
The only settlement in the isle is in Millport which is also home to Britains’ smallest cathedral.
5. Explore Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park
Clyde Muirshiel is Scotland’s largest regional park. It spreads across western coast making it accessible from Greenock, Inverkip, Wemyss Bay, Skelmorlie, Routenburn, Largs and Fairlie.
The park offers year round water and land based activities such as kayaking, sailing, mountain biking, hillwalking. Hence needless to say this town / region makes an exciting choice for adventure lovers.
If you are beginning from Largs, you can start by visiting Greeto Waterfalls. Begin the hike at the end of Bellesdale Avenue along Gogo Water, and follow the signpost Greeto Bridge Walk.
This is a family friendly hike and easy one to do. Yet another hike is the 8 mile Knock Hill Circular Route.
Where to stay in Largs
Largs is an ideal base to explore the west coast of Scotland. It is not possible to pack all these places within the weekend, but you have plenty of options to choose from. And this tiny town will not disappoint you.
There aren’t many hotels in the town, since it is relatively small. But there are many family run B & Bs and guest houses which will not disappoint you.
Brisbane House Hotel is a fantastic choice and it is located along the coast of Largs centre, offering sweeping views of Millport.
The Old Rectory is a good budget friendly family run home, offering clean and comfortable rooms.
Willowbank Hotel is a modern and comfortable hotel off the main coastal road, close to the town centre.
Where to eat in Largs
Although a small town, there are quiet a few vegetarian and Vegan restaurants around the town.
Lounge, 33-43 Main St, Largs: There are really good vegan and vegetarian options available, that includes soups, cauliflower tempura, roasted aubergine, and sorbet and apple crumble for dessert.
Gino’s Fryer, 71 Main St, Ayrshire, Largs: Originally a fish and chips, they do have a whole load of gluten free and vegan options in their menu. Separate vegan menu includes vegan fish and chips, vegan haggis fritters, chips, black pudding and a lot more. A must try place if you are in Largs!
Scott’s Bar & Restaurant, Largs Yacht Haven, Irvine Rd, Largs: Offers good range of vegan friendly options.
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R Niranjan Das
Nice post. Loved the images.
countryhoppingcouple
Thanks Niranjan 😀
Jessica Collazo
This place looks just amazing the seaside village is something out of this world and that castle is very unique.
Jessica Collazo recently posted…Accessory Concierge Wishlist / Wishlist de Accessory Concierge
magiceye
Beautiful captures and informative.
countryhoppingcouple
Thank you Magiceye. The place was absolutely beautiful.
Somali K Chakrabarti
The rugged beauty of Scotland is amazing. Very nice clicks. Reminded me of my trip to Isle of Cumbrae.
countryhoppingcouple
Ah. Glad to know that you've been to Cumbrae. Ain't that one of the pretty isles?
Anjali Sengar
Amazing pictures 🙂
http://www.zigzacmania.com/
countryhoppingcouple
Thank you so much Anjali, and welcome to our space 😀
Jared James
Yep its indeed look beautiful, something I would love to visit <3
Jared James recently posted…Lipless Crankbait vs Rat-L-Trap: The Ultimate lure
Amber Myers
I’d love to get here one day. What a gorgeous area. I’d be all about the parks.
Tara Pittman
This is a place that I would love to travel too. It looks like a nice place to visit.
Adrienne
Looks like a great time was had! I really love the graffiti castles, so cool.
Mary
All of these look so interesting, a beautiful place to visit indeed.
Natalie
It looks so beautiful! I had not given much thought to visiting Scotland but now have added it to my bucket list!
Natalie recently posted…My Summer Skincare Must-Haves with Beautysense
JD
Amazing scenery. Can’t wait to travel again.
Nyxie
I can’t wait to travel again and go to hotels etc. I’ve been craving getting out of this house. Scotland is such a beautiful place and I’ve always wanted to return on holiday.
Amy Thomas
I had plans of going to Scotland this Summer but now Scotland needs to wait. I so wish this pandemic ends soon so that we can start traveling again!
successunscrambled
I still have not been to Scotland after so many years of promising myself to go but I am hoping to do it one day very soon.
successunscrambled recently posted…11 Reasons Why You Are Not Achieving Your Dreams
Lisa
Largs looks like the perfect weekend break! The views are spectacular and I like that there’s also the option to visit another island. On my radar 🙂
Tonya
Wow! This a very beautiful and scenic place! Would love to visit some day. Wonder if cruise travel there.
Ana De- Jesus
How beautiful! The only place that I have been to in Scotland is Edinburgh for my friends wedding but i’d love to check Largs out. Seaside towns are always so whimsical and fun and I haven’t been one to a while. Not now of course, but when things settle I should definitely put it on my list of places to visit.
WorldInEyes
Wow…the place seems to be very interesting and adorable to visit..loved the all views..they are so locely..Thanks for sharing…Loved it..great work..
Heather @ US Japan Fam
What an adorable town! I’ve never heard of it before! I did a 2 week tour of UK with my sister 20 years ago (wow!!) and in Scotland we hit Glasgow and Edinburgh of course, but unforunately nowhere else. Time to go back!!
Latte Lindsay
I haven’t been to Scotland in ages! When lockdown is lifted I’ll have to pop across and visit again.
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Jessica Joachim
I have been wanting to visit Scottland! It looks so beautiful and it seems like there is so much to do in Largs!
Lyosha
The place looks wonderful! Great idea and spot to spend the weekend
Lyosha recently posted…Global Talents Digital
Agnes
What a beautiful place! I wish people can visit and and enjoy the place after this pandemic situation.
Jen Walker
It’s been years since I’ve been to Scotland, and I would love to go back! This sounds like the perfect place for me and the hubby to go and explore!
Enriqueta E Lemoine
Pleasing to read and look at. Loved the writing and the photos
Rachel
Gorgeous! I may have to add this to my list when we visit Scotland! Thanks!
Kathryn Burrington
I’ve wanted to see more of Scotland for a long time but Largs wasn’t on my radar. And I’d love to take a selfie with Magnus the Viking and to visit the graffiti castle. What fun!
Kathryn Burrington recently posted…Hot chocolate around the world | Best hot chocolate recipe
Charlotte
I love Scotland and this is going in my save list! Thank you!