The growth of Wemyss Bay was largely the result of the railway line to
Glasgow and the steamer service to Rothesay. The station and the pier where most of the travellers made a change in their mode of transportation still remains and it is an important landmark in the town. However, the history of Wemyss Bay goes back much father than that. James III originally granted the land to the Wallace of Kelly family in the 15
th century. The Kelly estate, including the Kelly Castle, went through many hands through the centuries. Each owner strived to build the town as a seaside resort. In fact, one owner, Robert Wallace envisioned a resort of 200 villas. Charles Brown managed to build up Wemyss Bay to 36 villas earning it the name of "Little Glasgow" because it was a popular vacation place for the wealthy merchants of
Glasgow.
Salmon fishing has always been a popular sport in Wemyss Bay and this alone draws many tourists. The easy drive from
Glasgow makes this a popular location for visitors who just want a day out as well as for those who want to spend a longer period of time here. With the wooded areas and the views of the bay, visitors are thrilled with the panoramic view of nature.
The shopping experience in Wemyss Bay is incomparable to anywhere else. With two shopping centers to choose from – the plaza on Ardgowan Road and the shops near the station. There are many quaint stores and restaurants where you can have a sit down meal or if you are in a hurry, there is also a takeout.
A must see on any trip to Wemyss Bay is the Castle House Museum. Here you will see artefacts of a long gone time and read about the visit of
Mary, Queen of Scots where she met the Earl of Darnley. In fact her room is still called the "Presence Chamber".
The Wemyss Bay Holiday Park is built on the site of Kelly Castle. This 150–acre park has many full service sites where you can park your RV or if you want to get closer to nature, you can pitch a tent. The park has many fun activities for the whole family. This makes for an enjoyable vacation in Wemyss Bay.
Caledonian MacBrayne Hebridean & Clyde Ferries: Isle of Bute – Wemyss Bay – Rothesay details, ferry timetables & fares.
