Walking tour of Port Glasgow, from small port town to centre of industry

Introduction to the Tour:

This walking tour by Inverclyde Tourist Group will welcome you to Port Glasgow, a town with a rich maritime heritage that once served as a vital hub for shipbuilding and trade. The tour begins at the Star Hotel, one of the town’s oldest establishments, where it’s said sailors from across the world would gather to share tales of the sea. The tour will take in the key landmarks that tell the story of Port Glasgow’s evolution from a small port town to a centre of industry.

Port Glasgow Station Murals

These vibrant murals were commissioned as part of a community project to revitalize the station and reflect the town’s pride in its shipbuilding heritage. One mural depicts the Clyde steamer 'Comet,' launched in 1812, the first steamship to operate on the Clyde, revolutionising river transport.

The Endeavour and Shipbuilders Sculptures

The striking sculpture Endeavour stands as a tribute to Port Glasgow’s maritime history. Created by artist John McKenna, it represents the bow of a ship, symbolising the town’s enduring connection to the sea. The Shipbuilders Sculpture pays homage to the men who worked in the shipyards. This statue captures the essence of the workers’ daily lives.

Newark Castle

A stunning example of 15th-century Scottish architecture. Originally built by George Maxwell in 1478, the castle has witnessed centuries of history, from the feuds of local clans to the rise of the shipbuilding industry.

Gourock Ropeworks

A key player in the town’s industrial past, this factory produced ropes and canvas for ships, vital supplies for the maritime industry. The vast red-brick building, with its iconic clock tower, still stands as a symbol of Port Glasgow’s industrial heritage.

Bay Street and Health Centre Car Park Murals reflects various aspects of life in Port Glasgow, from its shipbuilding roots to its vibrant community spirit. Each mural tells a story, creating a visual tapestry that connects the past with the present.

Host or Publisher Inverclyde Council