This charming Ayrshire seaside town near Glasgow isn’t just a summer destination – it’s equally delightful when it’s wet and chilly outside.
We’re now officially in wintery territory here in the UK, but it doesn’t mean we’re doomed to months of gloom – even if the prospect of a long, dark winter can seem intimidating. Each year, after Christmas, I try to welcome the cosy season with open arms, but this time, I’ve been trying to make the most of it in the form of day trips to my favourite places.
Here in Scotland, there are so many gorgeous ones, and you don’t need a sunny day to enjoy them. There’s one particular place I’ve visited since childhood that draws crowds in the summer, but is less visited during winter.
However, after spending a rain-soaked weekend there, I can say that it’s just as great – and maybe even more so.
Largs, a charming seaside town on Scotland’s west coast, is roughly an hour’s drive from Glasgow. Renowned for its Viking museum, nostalgic amusement arcades, and ferry trips to the Isle of Cumbrae, it’s a destination many Scots will likely have enjoyed during the warm summer months.
It’s one of those places that I remember so fondly, I had convinced myself it couldn’t possibly be as wonderful as I recalled – especially not under cloudy skies and in the colder air.
But I couldn’t have been more wrong. During a recent family getaway, we enjoyed plenty of rainy beach strolls, ate some delicious food, and even spotted a couple of Vikings – all without a hint of sunshine.
This charming town nestled by the Firth of Clyde offers everything one could desire from a coastal retreat, including an array of delightful hotels and accommodation options.
We stayed at the Old Rectory, a stunning holiday home that accommodates up to 14 guests, complete with a hot tub and plenty of space for relaxation.
One of the best things about Largs is how close you always are to the water, regardless of where you’re staying. The Victorian-style promenade is brimming with attractions, not to mention a fantastic selection of eateries serving everything from traditional fish and chips to mouth-watering Thai dishes.
Largs holds historical significance as the site of a pivotal battle in 1263, marking the cessation of extensive Viking influence in Scotland.
The Vikingar museum provides an insightful look into this history, or for a more immersive experience, the annual Largs Viking Festival is a must-visit. Coincidentally, the festival was taking place during our visit, featuring battle re-enactments, live music, and some very intriguing costumes.
Beyond its Viking heritage, Largs is also renowned for its art deco-style ice cream parlour, a long-standing attraction for visitors.
Nardini’s, affectionately hailed as Scotland’s most renowned cafe, has earned its popularity through its invitingly warm and cosy interior, not to mention its delicious ice cream.
Like Vikingar, it boasts a prime waterfront location, making it an ideal spot to savour a scoop or two of your preferred ice cream flavour.
In addition to their vast selection of cakes and light bites, it’s the perfect destination for lunch or a quick snack during your seaside strolls.
Venture into the heart of the town and you’ll discover quaint winding streets brimming with independent gift shops, eateries and more ice cream parlours.
One morning, we opted for brunch at Perk – a vibrant cafe adorned with plants and books, boasting an impressive menu too. The vanilla matcha was divine, and I couldn’t resist ordering the feta and avocado waffles from the menu.
And if you’re still feeling peckish after your meal, there’s a cake cabinet packed with pastries and other treats available for takeaway.
While Largs may not have those high street giants we know and love, it more than compensates with a huge range of independent vendors showcasing their unique products.
There’s a large market tent lined with retailers offering everything from organic dog food to wooden lamps, jewellery, soaps and even tarot readings – I could have easily spent the entire day exploring.
If you fancy a bit of an adventure, why not take a brief ferry ride from the port to the Isle of Cumbrae, home to the lively town of Millport? The island is compact enough to cycle around in just a few hours, with a rewarding pint awaiting at the end before a swift 10-minute sail back to the mainland.
Nearby lies the stunning Kelburn Castle, a beautiful park and estate that hosts its own music festival during the summer months. It’s an ideal spot for families too, boasting numerous playparks, waterfalls and much more to discover – all less than 10 minutes away from Largs.
But truth be told, Largs itself offers more than enough to keep you entertained for a day or even a weekend. Don’t let the typical Scottish drizzle deter you – it only serves to make those seafront strolls more invigorating and the ice-cream parlours even cosier.
