Largs

Largs is a popular seaside resort (population 12,000) in North Ayrshire on the west coast of Scotland. Officially dating back to its official burgh establishment in 1629, there has been a settlement on the site since the Middle Ages. Largs is situated 18 miles southwest of Greenock and 45 minutes south west of Glasgow.

The town is famous, for its victory in 1263 against Hakon of Norway, famously known as the ‘Battle of Largs.’ The Vikingar Centre at Barrfields, the Pencil Monument near the Marina, and the Largs Viking Festival every summer, are all reminders of the town’s historical triumph. Strong links have been forged over the years with Norway and every year there is a re-enactment of the Battle of Largs, culminating in the ceremonial burning of a Viking Longship.The town also shares a special connection with Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. The General Sir Thomas Makdougall Brisbane was actually born in the Brisbane Glen, Largs and eventually became the Governor of New South Wales. Every July, we hold a Brisbane Queen Festival, where we celebrate our Australian connections by crowning the new Largs gala queen.

Largs is well catered for in terms of entertainment and recreation. Escape & Fluid Complex at the Largs Pier includes a bowling alley, amusement arcade, fast-food outlet, bar and indoor and outdoor restaurant.

The Vikingar Experience is an interactive and exciting look into the history of the Vikings (including the Battle of Largs). Also at Barrfields is the Pavilion Theatre, Largs Swimming Pool, Winter Gardens, Sauna, Fitness Suite & Gymnasium, Viking Soft Play Area, 50 seat cinema, café and bar. The National Sports Centre at Inverclyde has one of three golf courses in Largs. The other two are Routenburn and Largs Club. There are two putting greens at Mackerston and Barrfields, which are open seasonally. There is a regular ferry service to the Isle of Cumbrae and during the summer, the world's last-going paddle steamer the Waverley stops at the pier.

Over the years, Largs has produced a number of famous and talented people! The actress, Daniella Nardini is a member of the famous Nardini ice cream dynasty; former Ryder Cup captain, Sam Torrance, also grew up in Largs as did both Benny Gallagher and Graham Lyle of Gallagher and Lyle and actor John Sessions.