Explore Balloch

Balloch is a great destination with its country walks, loch cruises, shops and restaurants, at the gateway to Scotland's first National Park. Sweeney's Cruises at Balloch Bridge welcomes aboard passengers wishing to take a relaxing boat trip around this area of outstanding natural beauty. Loch Lomond Shores is ideal for shopping, eating out and lochside activities and home to the National Park Gateway Centre, providing you with more information and ideas for spending your leisure time here. Look out for more information on the Lomond Folk Festival from the 30th July to the 1st August 2010. www.lomondfolkfestival.co.uk

Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park was created in 2002 to safeguard this area of outstanding natural beauty and protect its diverse landscapes and natural heritage. We think the Park is one of the most magical places in the world and we hope your visit is full of adventure, fun or relaxation. With its mountains, forests, stunning shorelines and outdoor activities, our job is to help you enjoy Scotland's first National Park. you'll see our Park Rangers out and about in the countryside, so don't hesitate to stop and say hello!. www.lochlomond-trossachs.org

Loch Lomond Shores is Scotland’s most spectacular visitor destination.  Located on the banks of Loch Lomond it offers visitors a unique mix of shopping, leisure and dining experiences.  Shopping includes Jenners department store as well as high street names and boutique style shops.  Leisure activities include a children’s adventure playpark, outdoor amusements, bike, canoe and pedal boat hire and the Loch Lomond Sealife Aquarium.  There are two cafes as well as the Kilted Skirlie restaurant at Loch Lomond Shores, all offering a wide range of modern Scottish fayre as well as fantastic views of the loch. Throughout the year there is also a packed calendar of events – see website for details.  Free parking. Loch Lomond Shores, Ben Lomond Way, Balloch G83 8QL.  Tel 01389 751035.  www.lochlomondshores.com.  Number 1 on the map

Sweeneys Cruises : Enjoy Loch Lomond in all its seasonal beauty in style and comfort on one of our luxurious passenger boats. Take the 1 Hour Experience Tour (11.30, 1.30, 2.30 3.30 and also 4.30 in the summer months). 2 Hour Island Discovery Cruise (1pm - 3pm) or the Evening Sunset Cruise (7pm July and August). All trips subject to demand. Whether for business or pleasure, we will endeavour to make it a day to remember. Located in the centre of Balloch, by Balloch Train Station (G83 8SW) Tel: 01389 752376. www.sweeneyscruises.com. Click here for cruise information and to book tickets. Number 5 on the map

Loch Lomond Gift House has been renowned for its high quality Scottish gifts and souvenirs since 1996. Beautiful jewellery, gifts and cards for both traditional and contemporary tastes. Also on offer is a professional Highland wear department for 'buy or hire' specialising in made-to-measure kilts, Highland wear and accessories. Quality service at prices you can afford. Open 7 days. Balloch Road, Balloch, Dunbartonshire. Tel: 01389 753437. Number 8 on the map

The Kilted Skirlie commands spectacular views across Loch Lomond from the restaurant, bar and outdoor balcony - perfect for dining al fresco. Bringing you the finest Scottish ingredients in traditional recipes with a contemporary twist, the Kilted Skirlie has established itself as the place to eat in Balloch and beyond. Your shopping trip, family day out or cruise around the Loch wouldn't be complete without a visit. Enjoy coffee, lunch, dinner and cocktails in the most glorious of settings. Ben Lomond Way, Loch Lomond Shores, Balloch. Tel: 01389 754759. www.kiltedskirlie.co.uk. Number 2 on the map

The Tullie Inn - Your weekend starts here! Thurs: Quiz Night. Fri: Disco. Sat: Live Music. Sun: Karaoke. Superb menus including the House Menu, 2 Course Menu, Scottish Specials, Sunday Roasts and Kids Menu. Patio garden with bar and grill throughout the summer for dining Al Fresco! Enjoy real ales, whiskies and Sky TV for premier sporting events. Free Wi-Fi, ample parking and accommodation available on-site (see accommodation section of this website). Dunbartonshire pub of the year! Balloch Road, Balloch, Loch Lomond (next to train station). Tel: 01389 752052. www.maclay.com/tullie-inn. Number 4 on the map

Palombos of Balloch: A fabulous award winning Fish and Chip shop. The family have been running the business for over 40 years and offer the best produce available and use sustainable fish species. Lighter options include soups, baked potatoes, filled rolls and hot drinks. Vegetarian and Gluten Free diets catered for. Internet access with computers provided for customers. Open 7 days. Palombos 3-star B&B with en-suite rooms is available just above the restaurant and is a short stroll from the banks of Loch Lomond (see accommodation section of this website). Tel: 01389 753501. info@palombosofballoch.co.uk  www.palombosofballoch.co.uk. Number 7 on the map

The Dog House is a friendly local pub; a great place to relax with coffee during the day or for a few drinks with friends at night. 2 separate bards, one for chiliing with the papers and the other for something a bit more lively! Live music throughout the week and you can catch all the big games on our plasma screens including 3D. We value our customers and offer them a warm welcome from near and far! 54 Balloch Road, Balloch, G83 8LE. Tel: 01389 607300. www.doghouseballoch.co.uk www.maclay.com. Number 7 on the map

Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre. Learn about the rescue and conservation of birds of prey where you will see a various range of breeds including owls, hawks, buzzards, falcons and eagles. Additional activities range from 'The Flying Experience' to a full 'Introduction to Falconry' day (additional fees apply). Situated at the rear of the Loch Lomond Homes and Gardens Centre and open all year from 9.30am to 5pm (summer) and 10.30am - 3.30pm (winter). Admission: Adults £3.50, children/concessions £2.50, families £8-£14. Under 5's free. Tel: 07751 862416. Situated at Ballagan, on the A811 to Stirling, just 1/2 mile past Balloch. . www.lochlomondbirdofprey.co.uk Number 9 on the map

Can You Experience? Yes you can! Outdoor activities on and around Loch Lomond, with our base situated at Loch Lomond Shores. Family fun with bicycle hire from 12 months + as well as canoe and pedal boat hire in a stunning sheltered bay. We offer 2-hour guided canoe trips - the perfect introduction to the sport and the loch as well as full day trips where you can enjoy a picnic on a secluded beach, lochside walks, swim and more. Guided hikes, bike trips, survival skills, abseiling and more. Loch Lomond Shores Visitor Centre, Balloch, G83 8QL. T: 01389 756251. www.canyouexperience.com. Number 3 on the map.
 

Loch Lomond Homes and Gardens is  not run of the mill! With a 3-star visitor attraction grading, there is so much on offer. You will find everything you need under one roof, including plants, shrubs, garden and conservatory furniture, tools and machinery, BBQ's and outbuildings plus a fantastic selection of gifts, confectionery and preserves. Your visit won't be complete without a relaxing coffee and tasty bite to eat in Roasts Cafe. Tel: 01389 752947. Situated at Ballagan, on the A811 to Stirling, just 1/2 mile past Balloch. www.lochlomondgardencentre.co.uk Number 9 on the map

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