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The maid of the loch paddle steamer under restoration ..

Maid of the Loch

The Maid of the Loch, an iconic paddle steamer located in Balloch on the southern shores of Loch Lomond, is a great attraction to visit for those staying with us at Loch Lomond Waterfront. Now undergoing an extensive restoration, she is currently moored at the pier and operates as a museum and visitor attraction. By visiting this fascinating vessel, you are supporting the restoration work, with the aim to get her sailing again in the future. Please note, the ship is open seasonally on selected days only, so check the opening times before visiting.

Stepping back in time

The renowned Glasgow shipyard A. & J. Inglis built the Maid of the Loch in 1953, making her the last paddle steamer constructed in Britain. She carried passengers across Loch Lomond for nearly three decades before officials decommissioned her in 1981. Now undergoing restoration, she serves as a unique museum, offering a fascinating glimpse into Scotland’s maritime past.

You can explore the historic ship, museum cabin and steam slipway, where you’ll learn the story of the ship’s history, from her golden years transporting tourists across the loch to the dedicated restoration efforts keeping her legacy alive.

The deck is the perfect spot to take in the beauty of Scotland’s largest freshwater loch while enjoying a cup of tea or coffee from the café on the pier. The café serves a selection of delicious home baking, light snacks and refreshments, making it a fantastic stop during your visit.

Supporting the restoration

As the restoration efforts continue, you have the opportunity to support the project through visiting and donating. Every contribution helps bring the dream of seeing the Maid of the Loch sail again one step closer.

Enjoy your day in Balloch before returning to your luxury lodge, chalet, shepherd’s hut or studio lodge, here at Loch Lomond Waterfront. Then unwind, put your feet up and start planning tomorrow’s next adventure!

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Testimonials

  • We'll definitely be back again

    'I just wanted to thank you for such a lovely stay.  The lodge was beautiful and the facilities and views amazing.  We will definitely be back again.'

  • Such a beautiful setting

    'Myself and my partner recently stayed in Drummond Lodge (from 21-24 Feb) and we just wanted to say thank you so much for a lovely stay. We loved our lodge, it was like a home from home, and we really didn’t want to leave! It was spotlessly clean and in such a beautiful setting. All the staff we met were really friendly. We also loved Balmaha, what a wonderful village. So thank you very much! We are the couple that took Flynn for a walk and we took this photo of him... we thought you’d appreciate a copy. Thanks once again...

  • Everything was more than perfect

    'Everything was more than perfect, more than what we can ask for. And the view priceless, the whole stay was priceless, so thank you ever so much, hope to see you soon.'

  • 40th celebration

    'My husband and I came here to celebrate my 40th birthday and we truly had a magnificent time. There was everything that you needed in your accommodation even washing liquid and conditioner for the washing machine. The hot tub and steam room were a real highlight as well as the living log fire.'

  • Our own private beach

    'Just walking along the West Highland way path past some of the crowded beaches made us realise the value of having your own private waterfront onto the loch.  I can still picture walking down to the lochside on our first evening and watching an osprey dive for a fish!'

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