10 Free Things to do in Renfrewshire That You Shouldn't Miss

PLEASE NOTE: The building is temporarily closed for refurbishment as a multi purpose venue. Scheduled re-opening Spring 2020. Known as The Baptist Cathedral of Europe, designed by Hippolyte j. Blanc, Thomas Coats Memorial Baptist Church opened in 1894, it was built by the Coats family in memory of Thomas Coats who died in 1883. He was one of the founders of the world famous firm of thread manufacturers, J & P Coats Ltd.

Welcome to the Castle Semple Visitor Centre and County Park listing. Please note this site one of several within the larger Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park. Castle Semple is located in Lochwinnoch Renfrewshire next to National Cycle Route 7 and just a short walk from Lochwinnoch Train Station. The Centre has a cafe and gift shop, provides free parking and entry as well as lots to do with great water, walks and wildlife. There is a Ranger Service who provide family friendly events and volunteer programmes throughout the year. There is also a highly qualified Outdoor Activity team with Instructors to guide you or your group through the techniques involved in sailing, kayaking, canoeing, powerboating, archery and loads more! The Centre is also fully equipped to be accessible to all, registered as Scotlands first Centre of Excellence for disability sailing in 2012.

Part of the larger Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park, Muirshiel Visitor Centre, only 4 miles from Lochwinnoch is located high in the hills of Renfrewshire. The wonderful scenery includes the high heather hills of Misty Law and Hill of Stake (522m) or moorland views and walks to the now disused, Barytes mine. The child friendly walk to the volcanic plug of Windy Hill (316m) has great views over the Clyde and towards Glasgow. Or, stay in the forest and woodlands on the sign posted 2km (1 hour) country, 1km (20 min) habitat or 500m (20 min) waterfall nature trail. The heather moors are home to one of Britain’s rarest Birds of Prey the Hen Harrier. Highlights of our Nest Camera Project, can be seen throughout the year. Contact Muirshiel on 01505 842 803 for details. All Visitor Centres in Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park have FREE parking and entry, sign posted woodland walks and nature trails. Easy wildlife watching, indoor and outdoor attractions, cafe, gift shop and a Ranger Service.

The Sma' Shot Cottages are a major attraction in the Renfrewshire area, providing visitors with an insight into two distinct periods of Paisley's weaving history. Come along and join us in our tea room, where we serve beverages and homemade goods and share stories of the past. We are open April-September, every Wednesday and Saturday 12pm-4pm and Fridays 1-5pm. Group/private tours can be arranged on request. Sma' Shot Cottages are owned and run by the Old Paisley Society, a registered charity. Admission is free, however, all donations towards the upkeep of the cottages are gratefully accepted.