About Largs

Largs - An Leargaidh in Gaelic - is a small town with population of just over 11,000 located on the North Ayrshire Coast. It is the main ferry link to island of Greater Cumbrae and the town of Millport.

Largs has many historical ties. The most famous is the Battle of Largs in 1263, when the Scots fought and won a battle against the invading Vikings. The battle is commemorated by the Pencil monument, erected in 1912. The town also hosts the Vikingar Centre that tells the story of the Vikings' links to Scotland and Largs.

Thomas McDougall Brisbane was an important local historical figure who, as sixth governor-general of the State of Queensland, gave his name to the City of Brisbane in Australia. He also developed the charts and star guidance system still in use by mariners today. The ruins of his home and observatory still stand in the Brisbane Glen.

The town hosts two golf courses and one son of Largs, Sam Torrance, was captain of a winning Ryder Cup golf team.

Today the town has a growing business in supporting the extensive Marina and Scotland's Sail Training school. Many national sailing and power boat events are held each year. The Inverclyde Sports Centre is supported by Sport Scotland and is often used as training for national and international teams. Largs remains a popular day trip centre in summer when the seafront is a popular attraction.

For further information about Largs, visit Largs Online.

View from Haylie Brae	Douglas Park	Sea Front	Neolithic Tomb	The Pencil

 (photo credits: Grahame M Ross)

 

Sunset over the Clyde	Boats off Largs	The Pencil at Sunset	Sunset over the Greater Cumbrae	The Waverley approaching Largs

_______________________________________________________________

For problems or questions regarding this Web site, please contact the Webmaster.
Copyright © The Rotary Club of Largs, District 1230, 2007-8. All rights reserved. Last updated: 11 August 2008.