Just eight miles south of Greenock, 30 or so miles from Glasgow on the western frontier of Inverclyde, lies the seaside village of Wemyss Bay. It is a town characterised by its pier and railway station; and it was these rail and sea links that helped the town grow as a highly desirable commuter town, and even more desirable for those looking to retire by the sea. The Wemyss Bay line opened in 1865, with a one-hour train journey from Glasgow affording passengers a seated carriage – state-of-the-art comfort, hitherto unavailable on rival lines such as Greenock’s. The popularity of the Clyde paddle steamers saw the number of visitors to the town rocket. To this day, ferries leave from Wemyss Bay; servicing Rothesay, on the Isle of Bute, one of Scotland’s best loved and most picturesque bucket and spade holiday destinations. Wemyss Bay’s history is indebted to two individuals in particular: Robert Wallace of Kelly, Greenock’s first MP; and Londoner James Alexander, a merchant who was responsible for building the town’s first pier. Alexander’s pier didn’t last, with Wemyss Bay’s reputation as one of the West Coast’s most exposed ports justifiable after high winds sinking it. But the town was on the ascendancy. By 1903 the rail links were improved, and a far more impressive station and pier were constructed; the 60-foot ‘Queen Anne’ clock tower dominating a magnificent glass-ceilinged station, adorned with hanging baskets and pot plants. The latter day Wemyss Bay might miss the paddle steamers but not the visitors – they still stream to the town in summer, Wemyss Bay Caravan Park a popular destination for those seeking to escape the city, and discover a hinterland of relative peace and tranquility.
Holiday Park
Pub and Bar
Restaurant
Places to Stay near Wemyss Bay
Kip Marina Apartments (2.05 miles)
This stunning new waterfront development offers 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments which combine the convenience of self-catering with the luxury of a fine hotel. Each apartment is generously proportioned ... More
Abbot's Brae (4.18 miles)
Nestled high amongst established woodland with sensational views over the Firth of Clyde and surrounded by some of the most breathtaking scenery you will ever see, Abbots Brae has earned for itself an enviable reputation ... More | visit website
Glenmorag Hotel (4.38 miles)
Glenmorag Hotel, Dunoon has 75 rooms and is stands in its own grounds in an elevated position overlooking the firth of Clyde. All bedrooms are en suite and have television ... More
St Ives Hotel (4.54 miles)
The 3-star St Ives Hotel is situated on the traffic free West Bay with magnificent views of the Firth Of Clyde. We are only minutes from the town centre and offer ... More
Milton Tower Hotel (4.54 miles)
Selborne Hotel (4.54 miles)
The Selborne Hotel is a beautiful base from which to explore the rugged mountain scenery of Argyll.The hotel boasts 98 bedrooms all with private facilities. Ground Floor and sea view ... More
Argyll Hotel (4.72 miles)
The Argyll Hotel is Dunoon's most popular hotel. Situated in the heart of town offering a choice of different restaurants under one roof, along with the Clyde Suite Bar. Have ... More
Dhailling Lodge (5.12 miles)
Lyall Cliff (5.12 miles)
Enmore Hotel (5.57 miles)
The Enmore Hotel is a small intimate quality establishment handled by a dedicated and qualified management team.
The hotel's ambience is very special with open fires, candlelight and flowers in the ... More
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