Loch Lomond - 4 Things to Know Before Visiting

A beautiful national park in Scotland centred on Loch Lomond and the hills and glens of the Trossachs, along with several other ranges of hills. It was the first of the two national parks established by the Scottish Parliament in 2002. The park extends to cover much of the western part of the southern highlands, lying to the north of the Glasgow conurbation, and contains many mountains and lochs.

A vast 200-acre country park on the southern tip of Loch Lomond in West Dunbartonshire, Scotland. It features nature trails, guided walks, a walled garden, and picnic lawns with views of the Loch.

PS Maid of the Loch is the last paddle steamer built in the United Kingdom. It has operated on Loch Lomond for 29 years and as of 2021 is being restored at Balloch pier. It is open to the public every day Easter to October, and weekends only through the winter. She has a new livery of red, white and black, the funnel now red with a black top.

Balloch Castle Country Park lies on the southeast shores of Loch Lomond, on the northern edge of Balloch, 20 miles north of Glasgow. First recognised as a country park in 1980, it was originally developed in the early 19th century. Both the park and Balloch Castle were built by John Buchanan. Although the house has been periodically used for visitor facilities and council offices, it is now included on the Buildings at Risk Register. Balloch Castle is a category A listed building.

A majestic 19th century mansion house built for John Buchanan of Ardoch. The castle and estate are situated at the southern end of Loch Lomond, within the old Earldom of the Lennox; and the lands were held by the Earls of Lennox from the 11th century to 1652. The estate was designated as a country park in 1980, and since 2002 has been part of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park.

The Vale of Leven Pool offers a welcoming public swim facility with main and teaching pools, also offering a variety of lessons and aquatic activities like water aerobics. It comprises a 25-metre, five-lane swimming pool together with a smaller teaching pool, a dance studio which offers a programme of exercise classes, a children's indoor adventure play area, a health and fitness club and a sauna and steam room.