Maid of The Loch

The Maid of the Loch sits at the water's edge near Alexandria like something from a bygone postcard. This is a Victorian paddle steamer, the last one built on the Clyde, and she's been taking people out on Loch Lomond since 1953. The boat itself is the main draw - you can walk around the decks, poke about the engine room, and get a proper sense of how people holidayed in Scotland before motorways made everything too quick and easy.

If you're staying at one of the nearby parks - Loch Lomond Retreat is virtually on the doorstep - then a trip out on the loch makes for a decent half-day. The views across the water toward Ben Lomond are solid, though nothing you won't see from the shore if you're honest. The real appeal is the vessel itself and the gentle pace of it all. Kids will enjoy the novelty factor for a while, though teenagers might find it a bit slow.

It's worth ringing ahead to check opening times and whether cruises are actually running - these seasonal boats can be hit and miss. Admission covers the boat tour, and you'll want to allow a couple of hours including time to wander around the steamer and grab something from the cafe. Fair warning: it can get busy with coach parties in summer, so going midweek or shoulder season is your best bet. If you're already in the area for a caravan holiday, it's well worth the short journey from Alexandria.