Renfrewshire Attractions and Heritage Sites (Places to Visit)
We have compiled a list of Attractions in Renfrewshire to visit during your stay. We hope the information about the attractions in Renfrewshire helps you with your holiday planning.
Paisley Abbey, which is located on the White Cart Water's east bank, was a prior monastery of the Cluniac order. In the year 1163, the building of the priory was chartered by Water FitzAlan, who was the first Scottish High Steward. In 1307, the abbey was destroyed by England's Edward I but the building was rebuilt during the 14th century. The abbey later fell to ruin during the 15th and 16th centuries. However, today, the abbey is still used as a place of worship and numerous tourists come to visit the location each year.
2. Gleniffer Braes Country Park - Paisley, Renfrewshire, PA2 8TE - Tel No: 01418 843794
The country park consists of about 480 acres of primarily picturesque moorland, although some parts contain woodland and farming locales. The park uses cattle in order to control the plant life as well as preserve the biodiversity of the area in order to maintain its appearance. The area contains several woodland walks, beautiful views, as well as many locations to enjoy dog walking, bird watching, and picnics.
3. The Sma' Shot Cottages - Paisley, Renfrewshire, PA1 2HZ - Tel No: 01418 891708
This location is the sole survivor of the Shuttle Street, an area that was built during the 1750s for the weaving of cloth and fabrics. The Cottages provide visitors with the ability to visit the Weaver's Cottage and experience weaving as it was done back during the original time period. Individuals are able to experience life during the 1700s as well as during the 1800s in order to more fully understand the history of the area.
4. Newark Castle - Port Glasgow, Renfrewshire, PA14 5NH - Tel No: 01475 741858
Believed to be founded by the West Saxon king, Egbert, Newark Castle was eventually rebuilt and consecrated in the year 1123. It is believed that this castle is the model for Sleaford Castle, which was later constructed.The crypt, the south-west tower, and the gate-house are what remain of the magnificent Norman castle. It is believed that the castle was rebuilt during the 13th century with the location being used as a prison during the reign of Edward III.
5. Paisley Museum - High Street, Paisley, Renfrewshire, PA1 2BA - Tel No: 01418 871010
The Paisley museum is the first municipal museum in Scotland and was opened in the year 1871 by John Honeyman. The building, when opened, contained a full library with a gallery containing art pieces and sculptures being added in 1882. The building was then extended both in 1901 as well as 1933. In addition, the museum contains an extensive collection of paisley shawls.
6. Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park - Barnbrock, Near Kilbarchan, Renfrewshire, PA10 2PZ - Tel No: 01505 614791
The Clyde Muirshiel Regonal Park is the name for the countryside that has been set apart for conservation. The entire park consists of 108 square miles and includes areas of Inverclyde, Greencock, Largs, Dalry, and Lochwinnoch just to name a few. Visitors to the area are able to enjoy a number of outdoor activities such as mountain biking as well as receive instruction in the areas of kayaking, canoeing, sailing, as well as raft building.
RSPB Lochwinnoch is one of the rare wetlands still present in western Scotland. As such, the area is a perfect place to take a day trip. The wetlands are full of many species of birds and are a great locale for birdwatching. The birds include pigeons, ducks, crested grebes, and whooper swans. RSPB Lochwinnoch also has a lovely visitor centre in which tourists can get a snack or browse in the gift shop for items such as bird feeders, clothing, books, and telescopes.
8. Whitelee Windfarm Visitor Centre - Eaglesham, Renfrewshire, G76 0QQ - Tel No: 01415 685480
The Whitlee Windfarm Visitor Centre is located at the largest windfarm in Europe. The building provides tourists and visitors with the opportunity to learn about renewable energy and its benefits. The visitor centre is also the starting point for a number of trails, which can be used for walking, cycling, and other activities.
