Dunoon

dunoon pier

If you want to get off the beaten track for a day or two, take a boat across to the Cowal peninsula. Here you will find its capital town Dunoon which is located in the south of Argyll and Bute. This guide will look at the top things to do and hotels in Dunoon.



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Your complete guide to Dunoon

This town has a rich history and one of the locals will be able to tell you all about its origins and feuds between the famous Lamont and the Campbell clans. 

Dunoon is the maritime gateway to Scotland’s famous Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park.

Although Dunoon is located on the Cowal peninsula, travel links to the town are reliable and well-priced. 

If you are travelling to Dunoon from Glasgow by car and ferry it will take around an hour and a half to get there. You can also take the train from Glasgow Central to Gourock and then take the ferry over to Dunoon’s Terminal. Bus trips to Dunoon are also available from Glasgow.

dunoon main street

Things to do in Dunoon

Dunoon has lots to offer day-trippers and tourists travelling around Scotland. From its large Victorian pier to its excellent selection of craft shops and galleries, spend some “you” time exploring what Dunoon has to offer. 

Benmore Botanic Garden

benmore botanic gardens is one of the top things to do in dunoon

While you are visiting Dunoon make the short trip to Benmore Botanic Gardens, here you will find one of the most popular botanic gardens in the country. 

This is an excellent day out all year round as the Garden thrives throughout all of the seasons. Once you have finished browsing through this spectacular scenery Benmore has to offer, enjoy the Courtyard Gallery, which often hosts exhibitions and events.

Puck’s Glen

puck's glen is a fantastic thing to do in dunoon

Chase the waterfalls at Puck’s Glen! 

Get your walking boots ready and head towards this secluded woodland area in Dunoon. 

This is one of the most famous tourists’ spots in the town and rightfully so – this mystical trail is picture-perfect.  

Castle House Museum

castle house meseum is one of the best things to do in dunoon

Discover the real Dunoon at the Castle House Museum. This stunning tourist attraction sits in the heart of the town. Many visitors come to Castle House Museum to learn more about Dunoon, it’s history and the people that live there.

Water sports

watersports and kayaking is one of the top things to do in dunoon

When visiting Dunoon head out and enjoy the clear waters that surround the Holy Loch Marina. This part of Scotland is a hotspot for sea kayakers and if you want to have a go, you can take a tour with Sea Kayak Argyll & Bute, a water sports company who run guided expeditions around Dunoon’s waters.

Stay Fresh Fest

stay fresh music festival

One for the music lovers.

Stay Fresh Fest is Dunoon’s annual musical festival which supports local musicians and charities! The event which hosts a range of musical acts from all different genres happens every September at the Queen’s Hall.

More Things to do in Argyll & Bute

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