Brilliant for relaxed Scottish breaks or active, outdoorsy holidays, Helensburgh is a picturesque destination on the banks of the Clyde Estuary. A quaint waterfront spot, the town offers some very appealing accommodation options, including small boutique hotels and laid-back B&Bs. Many of the best places to stay in Helensburgh are nestled right on Loch Gare, promising glorious views.

With Glasgow just 40 minutes’ drive in one direction and Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park nearby, Helensburgh is the perfect place to soak up the region’s many cultural attractions, as well as its spectacular natural wonders. Walkers and hikers will delight in the abundance of trails — including the Three Lochs Way and the John Muir Way — which wind their way through the area. Enjoy a seaplane tour of Loch Lomond, hop aboard a steamboat or take the ferry across to Kilcreggan or Gourock before trying your hand at fishing, going horse riding and playing a round or two of golf. For great wildlife-spotting, head to Ardmore Point or the RSPB Reserve in East Loch Lomond.

Back in Helensburgh, pop into quirky galleries and independent boutiques, savour delicious local produce at a lively eatery, or kick back with a few drinks at a waterfront bar. Culture aficionados will find Helensburgh’s Hill House particularly intriguing, whilst the Glengoyne Distillery in Strathblane is popular for tours and tastings. Glasgow abounds with excellent art galleries, theatres and museums.

Whether you’re travelling as a family, on an extended road trip with friends or dreaming of a tranquil weekend away, the best places to stay in Helensburgh promise a warm welcome and a cosy place to lay your head after days of discovering.

The Best Places to Stay in Helensburgh

For a charming B&B

• No. 20 boasts three stylish rooms, complete with soothing earthy colour palettes and tartan quilts on big cosy beds. Expect striking views over Gare Loch, heaps of recommendations from the friendly owner-managers, and generous breakfasts of locally-sourced ingredients. An intimate B&B for families, friends or couples.

For Boutique Chic

• Riva Boutique Hotel is a chic, 14-bedroom property set right on the seafront. Pick this place for the cool, contemporary rooms — complete with vinyl collections and record players — as well as the trendy on-site eatery specialising in Italian-inspired fare. The perfect base for exploring as a couple or family.

FOR A HOLIDAY COTTAGE OR APARTMENT

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Glasgow Airport and hop aboard a 40-minute train or drive 45 minutes to Helensburgh.
• Scotland is ideal for a road trip! contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Visit between May and September for long days and warmer temperatures. This is still Scotland, though: bring your raincoat and wellies if you plan to explore, but there’s plenty of potential for beautiful sunny days and the drizzly moments make B&Bs with roaring fires all the more cosy.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Glasgow.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Argyll.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.