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Home/Blog / Sights and Attractions in Loch Lomond

Sights and Attractions in Loch Lomond

Famous for its natural beauty and stunning scenery, Loch Lomond is known as a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide variety of activities including walking, cycling and island exploration. Yet, while the region is most certainly famous for its water-based activities, including jet skiing and kayaking, there are a number of attractions in Loch Lomond that will appeal to history buffs, families and wildlife enthusiasts alike.

Start your exploration with an unforgettable stay at Cameron House Hotel and discover adrenaline-fuelled and action-packed activities by bike, hike, or 4×4 designed to immerse you in the lush Scottish landscapes.

For even more curated experiences, see our comprehensive guide to even more things to do in Loch Lomond and The Trossachs.

a close up view of a carving in a piece of wood

Best Attractions in Loch Lomond

  1. SEA LIFE Loch Lomond Aquarium

Discover incredible marine life and learn all about ocean conservation at SEA LIFE Loch Lomond Aquarium. This family-friendly attraction is situated on Loch Lomond’s shores and features sea life tanks and walk-through ocean tunnels that takes you on a fascinating journey from the shores of Loch Lomond to the depths of the world’s oceans in 7 themed zones. 

a family walking through a aquarium with turtles and fish swimming around them

Buy a ticket at the venue or save money by booking online in advance over on the SEA LIFE Loch Lomond Aquarium website.

  1. Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre

Within the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park lies the Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre. One of the premier bird of prey centres in the country, this family run attraction aims to educate visitors about the birds and the centre’s conservation efforts. 

a hawk landing on a handlers glove

There are a number of things to do at the centre including a Discovery Trail, where you can learn more about the native wildlife, or get up close and personal with the centre’s feathered celebrities with a Bird of Prey Experience. You’ll really want to catch the centre’s daily flying show, however, to truly appreciate the magnificence of birds of prey in flight. Find times over on the Loch Lomond Bird of Prey website. 

  1. Maid of the Loch

Step back in time and discover Loch Lomond’s Maid of the Loch, the very last paddle steamer to be built in Britain and the UK’s only remaining example of a so-called ‘Up an Doon’ vessel. 

Explore the historic ship, the Winch House, the museum cabin, and the steam slipway for free before stopping by the venue’s cafe on the pier with sandy beaches, BBQ and picnic areas, bike and canoe hire, boat trips and woodland walks located conveniently nearby.

  1. Balloch Castle and Country Park

A 200-acre country park located on the southeast shores of Loch Lomond, Balloch Castle and Country Park was originally a 19th century private estate before being developed as a park at the beginning of the 20th century. The castle itself was built in 1800 and features the original layout and design. It is the only registered historic designed landscape within the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park.

The grounds include the Fairy Glen, Chinese Garden, Pleasure Grounds, Quarry Pond, Kitchen Garden, Secret Garden, Woodlands and Parklands, and be sure to also explore the park’s Fairy Trail that utilises felled tree stumps. 

  1. Loch Lomond Boat Trips

Loch Lomond is arguably best experienced by water and there’s no better way to take in the sights than by boat. 

people riding on a red and black boat in the middle of the water with mountains in the background

A cruise on Loch Lomond can include a hop over to an island or choose a ‘hop on and off’ adventure to one of Loch Lomond’s picturesque villages. There are a few service providers to choose from, including Cruise Loch Lomond and Sweeney’s Cruise Co. Or book a Champagne Cruise on our very own Celtic Warrior cruiser.

  1. Loch Lomond Water Ski Club

If you prefer your water-based activities with a side of thrilling action, the Loch Lomond Water Ski Club offers water ski lessons no matter your level. 

Whether you’re a complete beginner or have some experience under your belt, you’re in good hands. The club has previously tutored celebrities including Bono of U2 and Liam Gallagher of Oasis. 

  1. Loch Lomond Faerie Trail

The Loch Lomond Faerie Trail is a delightful experience for children and adults alike, offering a magical journey through the enchanting woodlands of Scotland’s most charming village, Luss.

The trail is designed to spark imagination and creativity, encouraging visitors to use their senses and explore the natural world. Along the way, you’ll discover hidden faerie houses, learn about the local flora and fauna, and solve fun-themed puzzles. For further information and to buy tickets, visit the trail’s official website.

  1. Ben Lomond

Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to be a professional hiker to explore the Ben Lomond area, with a number of family-friendly tours and trails available, including the Ardress Hidden History Trail that lets you discover the stories of the people who lived and worked in this landscape for centuries.

The main route up to Ben Lomond is generally accessible to most people, provided you have a reasonable fitness level, but the routes can get quite challenging so ensure you research the walk to Ben Lomond ahead of time. 

  1. Loch Katrine 

Within the Trossachs National Park lies the stunning Loch Katrine, which not only showcases the captivating natural landscape of Scotland but features a fascinating and rich history. 

Sir Walter Scott’s epic poem “The Lady of the Lake” is set against the backdrop of the loch, making it a popular destination for fans of romantic literature. Evidence of ancient settlements has also been found around its shores, and some historical figures like Rob Roy MacGregor are associated with the region.

  1. Dumbarton Castle

Located just 7 miles from Cameron Lodges on the River Clyde, Dumbarton Castle is one of the oldest castles in Scotland with a rich history that goes back 1,500 years. The castle has had some notable guests and prisoners over the ages, including William Wallace, and once acted as a safe shelter for David II (in 1333–4) and Mary Queen of Scots (in 1548).

Today you can see some stunning views by climbing the White Tower Crag, explore examples of early 18th century artillery fortifications and visit the Governor’s House that’s home to interesting artefacts found at the castle. 

Visit the Historic Environment Scotland website for further information and opening times. 

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