Dunoon & Cowal history

Medieval

Dunoon Castle stood on Castle Hill from at least the 13th century and was in use until the 1600s, serving as a royal castle in the 14th century. Only fragments of its walls and gateway survive today, in the Castle Gardens.

19th century

Dunoon grew from a small village into a popular holiday resort from the 1820s, as Clyde steamers brought Glaswegians "doon the watter". The Victorian and Edwardian years were its heyday, and the pier was rebuilt on a grand scale in 1896-98.

20th century

Dunoon is linked to Gourock by two ferries. CalMac runs a passenger-only service from Dunoon's breakwater. Western Ferries runs a vehicle and passenger crossing from nearby Hunters Quay to McInroy's Point. Check timetables before travelling.