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Virgin Voyages' guide to Glasgow (Greenock), Scotland

Welcome to Greenock, Scotland: the verdant green gateway to Glasgow – where charming cobblestone streets, storybook architecture, distillery tours, blooming botanical gardens and palatial cathedrals are a mere 40-minutes away.

GLASGOW

A Green Oasis of Culture

Before making your way the 40-minutes from port to Glasgow, don’t hesitate to spend some time in Greenock, a classic Scottish port town with sprawling green hills, an impressive arts center, breathtaking views and mouthwatering restaurants. After making your way along the River Clyde to Scotland’s western Lowlands, you’ll find Glasgow, an eclectic city known as one of the friendliest on Earth.
Here you can explore the city’s industrial past through its various museums and peruse the litany of art galleries that are so instrumental in Glasgow’s vibrant arts scene. Stroll the cobbled streets of the West End, featuring a labyrinth of vintage shops, unique cafes and charming bistros and lose yourself in the green pastures of Kelvingrove Park. Take a culinary adventure through the bohemian Finnieston area, where everything from craft beer bars, traditional pubs, Michelin-starred restaurants and award-winning street food have a home. 

Whether you’re looking to stroll the gray-stone house-lined streets looking for the perfect cup of tea, to educate yourself on Scotland’s history or to enjoy live music in a quintessentially Scottish pub, you’re certain to find it all in both Glasgow and Greenock.
Shore Excursions

Tartan Treasures & Scottish Sights

Traditional music, magical malts & historical highlands.

Bagpipe Workshop & Whisky Tasting

Begin the day with a whisky presentation and tasting, before joining Louise Marshall, Piper to the Lord Provost of Edinburgh, for a bagpipe workshop. She'll explain the history of bagpipes and demonstrate how to play them. Then enjoy a classic fish & chip lunch at Bonnie & Wild, including drinks, and end the day with a coach tour of Edinburgh's Old and New Town.

Glengoyne Distillery Master of Malt

Get ready for an immersive tour of the historic Glengoyne Distillery, nestled in the picturesque Highland. You'll learn all about the whisky-making process, and even have the unique opportunity to craft your own cask strength whisky, blending rare single malts under the guidance of Distillery Ambassadors. At the end of the day, take home your own 200ml bottle of your custom-made whisky.

Stirling Castle

Drive through the old town to arrive at Stirling Castle, where every inch seems drenched in history and interest.​ Stirling is historically and geographically at the heart of the country, set on its rocky outcrop where the Lowlands meet the Highlands.​ Following your visit to the castle, the excursion will return towards the River Clyde, crossing over the fine Erskine Bridge, and traveling alongside the banks of the river towards Greenock.

More Shore Things for your wishlist...

We have even more in our curated catalog.

Glasgow is a truly legendary music destination

In fact, it’s an official UNESCO City of Music!
Shore Excursions

Edinburgh Royal Mile Walking Tour

Walk Edinburgh's famous Royal Mile and see the city's iconic landmarks, including a guided tour of the Palace of Holyroodhouse.

DISCOVER MORE SHORE THINGS

A classic Scottish port town, Greenock is a beautiful place with a lot of history. Spend time in the uber-green Scottish countryside of Lyle Hill or visit a historic cathedral before making your way the 40-minute commute to Glasgow. Check out the unique shops that line the charming streets, visit a brewery or a distillery for a tour and a tasting, enjoy a classic Scottish meal and grab a pint with some of the friendliest people in the United Kingdom.

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