Loch Lomond Shores

Loch Lomond Shores is a waterfront leisure and shopping complex at Balloch, at the southern tip of Loch Lomond, built around Drumkinnon Bay and opened in 2002. It works as the main gateway to the loch for visitors arriving from Glasgow, with a National Park information point, a large car park and a level shoreside promenade looking north up the water.

The landmark building is Drumkinnon Tower, which houses SEA LIFE Loch Lomond, an aquarium with otters, rays and a shark tank. Around it sit a retail crescent and an indoor mall: the former Jenners store now trades as Frasers with Sports Direct, alongside an RSPB shop, an Edinburgh Woollen Mill, a Thorntons and a run of smaller clothing and gift shops. Eating options include the dinosaur-themed Jurassic Grill and a couple of cafes with loch views.

Outdoor activity is the other half of the draw. Sweeneys Cruises and the waterbus leave from the jetty here, Loch Lomond Leisure hires out kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, pedaloes and bikes, and there is an adventure golf course and a children’s play area. The Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre is next door, and the restored paddle steamer Maid of the Loch is moored a short walk away at Balloch Pier.

Parking is free and the site is open year round, with a calendar of seasonal events. Loch Lomond Shores, Ben Lomond Way, Balloch, G83 8QL. Details and event listings by phone on 01389 751035 or via the Loch Lomond Shores website.