I thought I’d put together a super handy blog that answers every question you could possibly have before visiting Millport, Isle of Cumbrae.
Here are your Millport FAQs: Answered.
Feel free to skip through to the relevant section:
Getting to Millport, Isle of Cumbrae
Where is Millport?
Millport is the main town on the Isle of Cumbrae, which is a small Scottish island located just off the North Ayrshire coast. You catch the short 8-minute ferry from Largs, which is only a 1-hour train from Glasgow.
How do you get to the Isle of Cumbrae?
The Isle of Cumbrae is known as ‘Scotland’s Most Accessible Island’, and for good reason. Cumbrae is a short 8-minute ferry ride from Largs ferry terminal.
The ferry service is provided by Caledonian MacBrayne.
Here’s How to Get to Millport, Isle of Cumbrae.
Where is the ferry slip in Largs?
Largs ferry terminal is located just off of the main street in Largs, and only a 5- minute walk from Largs train station.
If you are driving, fire KA30 8BG into your trusted Google Maps. That’ll take you right to the Largs ferry slip where you can grab your tickets and hop on the boat. Largs only 40-minutes from Ayr, 1-hour from Glasgow, or 2-hours from Edinburgh.
Always check the Cal Mac Service Status before travelling.
How often do the ferries go from Largs to Millport?
Generally, the Cumbrae ferry sets off every 30 minutes (every 15 minutes in Summer).
Always check the Cal Mac Service Status before travelling, and show up at least 10 minutes before the departure time to allow time for tickets and queueing.
What’s the Cumbrae Ferry Timetable?
Here’s the Largs – Cumbrae Ferry Timetable.
Largs to Cumbrae Ferry Timetable – Summer 2024
*Source: Calmac.co.uk
How do you get tickets for the Millport ferry?
You can either pre-book tickets online or simply show up and purchase at the Largs ferry terminal at KA30 8BG (tap to open Google Maps).
When is the first ferry to Millport?
The first ferry to depart Largs is the 06:45am. The first ferry to depart Millport is the 07:00am.
When is the last ferry back from Millport?
The last ferry to depart Millport is the 20:30pm. The last ferry to depart Largs is the 20:15pm.
The following paragraph applies to summer sailings only:
On Fridays only, there’s one later sailing each way: 20:45pm from Largs and 21:00pm from Millport. There’s also one final Friday sailing 22:15 from Largs and 22:30pm from Millport – vehicles must be pre-booked on this one by calling 01475 674134.
Here’s the Largs – Cumbrae Ferry Timetable.
How do you get to Millport town?
Once you hop off the ferry and you’ll have a few options to get to the town. Turn left for the quickest route to town. For a shortcut, head over Ferry Road, or I recommend taking the longer scenic route around by bike.
If you’re driving, you’ll be in Millport town in 10-15 minutes. If you’re cycling, the journey will take 20-25 minutes. Walking will take 1 hour 20 minutes. The bus from the Cumbrae ferry slip to Millport town takes 10 minutes.
Here’s How to Get to Millport, Isle of Cumbrae.
How much does the Largs to Millport ferry cost?
Return tickets only cost £4.00 per person, £15.20 for a car, and bikes are free.
Largs to Cumbrae Ferry Prices – Summer 2024
| FERRY TICKET | RETURN FARE | |
| Foot Passenger / Driver | £4.00 | |
| Child 5-15 (Infant under 5 free, must have valid ticket) | £2.00 | |
| Car or 4X4 (excludes driver) | £15.20 | |
| Motorhome | Up to 6m | £15.20 |
| Up to 8m | £37.80 | |
| Up to 10m | £46.50 | |
| Caravan, boat/baggage trailer | Up to 2.5m | £7.60 |
| Up to 6m | £15.20 | |
| Up to 8m | £22.70 | |
| Motorcycle | £7.60 | |
| Pedal cycles (restricted numbers) | Free | |
*Note all fares are return tickets.
Always check the Cal Mac Service Status before travelling,
How much does the bus to Millport cost?
Cumbrae Slip – Millport Town SPT Bus Fares 2023/24
| BUS TICKET | FARE |
| Adult Return | £3.50 |
| Adult Single | £2.00 |
| Child Return | £1.70 |
| Child Single | £1.00 |
The bus is always dog friendly and your furry friend travels for free.
How much is a car on the Millport ferry?
A car or 4×4 return ferry ticket costs £15.20. Each driver and passenger ticket costs another £4.00.
Should I bring a car to Millport?
If you asked us, we’d say no. You really don’t need a car to explore the Isle of Cumbrae. There’s a reliable bus service that meets every ferry and takes you to town in 10 minutes. There are plenty places you can leave the car in Largs.
The best way to explore the island is by bike, or one of its many walking routes.
Here’s A Guide to Cycling in Millport, Isle of Cumbrae.
Fancy a Unique Stay on The Isle of Cumbrae?…
Check out our One-of-a-kind Cabin Concept in Millport.
Welcome to the next generation of self-catering accommodation in Scotland.
We think of our one-of-a-kind Cabin Concept as a crossroads where quirky interior design meets eco-consciousness, in a stunning island setting.
👉 Discover The Cabins
How much is a camper van on the Millport ferry?
Motorhome return ferry ticket prices are as follows: Up to 6m costs £15.20. Up to 8m costs £37.80. Up to 10m costs £46.50.
Is a bike free on the Millport ferry?
Yes – taking your bike on the Millport ferry is free of charge. You just pay £4.00 for your passenger ticket. (Note: The number of bikes may be limited on each sailing during super busy days)
How long does the Millport Ferry take?
The crossing from Largs ferry slip to Cumbrae ferry slip only takes 8 minutes! You’ll be on island time before you know it.
In the high season, be aware there may be quite a wait for vehicle traffic.
Do I need to book the Millport ferry?
No – You don’t have to book the Millport ferry in advance. It’s a ‘show-up-and-go’ kind of service. You can either pre-book tickets online or simply show up and purchase at Largs ferry terminal at KA30 8BG (tap to open Google Maps).
Is the Millport ferry running today?
Click here to check the Cal Mac Service Status for the Largs – Cumbrae route
Things to Do, See and Eat in Millport, Isle of Cumbrae
What is the weather like in Millport, Isle of Cumbrae?
Where can I hire a bike in Millport, Isle of Cumbrae?
Here are your two options for bike hire in Millport town: Mapes Cycle Hire & On Your Bike. All offer great value and a wide range of options from standard bikes, to ‘quadricycles’.
Here are the Unique Things to See & Do in Millport, Isle of Cumbrae.
Where is Mapes Cycle Hire Shop in Millport?
You’ll find Mapes at 4-5 Guildford St, Millport, KA28 0AE | 01475 530444 | www.mapesmillport.co.uk
Where is On Your Bike Cycle Hire Shop in Millport?
You’ll find On Your Bike at 27/29 Stuart Street, Millport, KA28 0AJ | 01475 530 300 | www.onyourbikemillport.com
How much is bike hire in Millport, Isle of Cumbrae?
Mapes’ prices are £8.00 for up to 3 hours, and £10.00 for over 3 hours. Helmets are free.
On Your Bike’s prices are £10.00 for the full day. Helmets are free.
Where can I hire the quadricycle in Millport?
Both Mapes and On Your Bike hire out the Quadracycle as well as another few quirky cycle options, such as tandems and children’s trailers.
Where can I hire a tandem bike in Millport?
Both Mapes and On Your Bike hire out tandem bikes
Where can I hire a kids’ bike in Millport?
Bremner’s Cycle Hire, Mapes and On Your Bike hire out kids bikes
Where can I hire a child bike trailer in Millport?
Bremner’s Cycle Hire, Mapes and On Your Bike hire out children’s trailers.
How long does it take to cycle around the Isle of Cumbrae?
The 10.25 mile circuit around the Isle of Cumbrae takes around 1-2 hours to cycle. Allow plenty time to stop off and soak in those scenic views down the Firth of Clyde.
How long does it take to walk around the Isle of Cumbrae?
The 10.25 mile circuit around the Isle of Cumbrae takes around 3-3.5 hours to walk. Allow plenty time to stop off and soak in those scenic views around the island.
What walking routes are there in Millport, Isle of Cumbrae?
There are five main walking routes on the Isle of Cumbrae:
Check out:
💡 Top Tip: Leave nothing but footprints!
Let’s keep Scotland’s landscapes litter-free. It should go without saying, but if there’s not a bin nearby, do the right thing by taking it with you. Also, please use recycling points where available.
How long does it take to drive around the Isle of Cumbrae?
It takes around 30 minutes to drive around the whole of the Isle of Cumbrae’s 10.25 mile circuit.
What is there to do in Millport, Isle of Cumbrae?
For a small island, only 10 miles around, there is LOADS to do on the Isle of Cumbrae. Here are a few:
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- The Glaidstone Viewpoint
- The Isle of Cumbrae Gin Distillery
- Lion Rock, Crocodile Rock & Indian Rock
- Watersports in Millport Bay
- Cycling Around the Whole Island
- The Wedge – The ‘Narrowest House in the World’
- The Cathedral of The Isles – The Smallest in the UK
- Wildlife Spotting
- Wee Cumbrae Day Trip Sea Tour
- Millport Calander Events
- Kelburn Castle & Country Centre (Largs)
Check out our Unique Things to See & Do in Millport Blog for them all!
What can I see on the Isle of Cumbrae?
There is loads to see on the Isle of Cumbrae, from the iconic Lion, Crocodile & Indian Rocks, to 360-degree panoramic views from The Glaidstone Viewpoint, to spotting the diverse range of Wildlife species on the island.
What beaches are there on the Isle of Cumbrae?
There are many sandy beaches to stop while exploring the Isle of Cumbrae. You’ll find Kames Bay and Newton Bay close to Millport town, and Fintry bay, Bell bay, and Skate bay up the west side of the island.
Does Millport have a golf course?
Yes – It’s possibly one of the most scenic golf courses about. You’ll find it at Golf Rd, Millport, Isle of Cumbrae, KA28 0HB.
Where is Millport Golf course?
Millport Golf course is a short 15-minute walk up the hill from the town’s main bus stop at Millport pier. The golf clubhouse address is Golf Rd, Millport, Isle of Cumbrae, KA28 0HB.
Where is the Cumbrae Gin Distillery?
You’ll find the Isle of Cumbrae Distillers in the middle of Millport town, at 11 Guildford St, Millport, Isle of Cumbrae, KA28 0AE.
Where can I get NostalGin in Millport?
The Isle of Cumbrae Gin Distillery’s flagship gin is ‘NostalGin’. You’ll find the Cumbrae Gin Distillery in the middle of Millport town, at 11 Guildford St, Millport, Isle of Cumbrae, KA28 0AE.
Where is Fintry Bay Café on the Isle of Cumbrae?
You’ll find Fintry Bay Cafe on the Isle of Cumbrae’s west side. At a 15-minute anti-clockwise cycle from the Cumbrae ferry slip, it approximately marks the halfway point to millport town, so is a great stop-off for an ice cream and a re-charge.
Where is Brewbaker Café in Millport?
Brewbaker is an amazing bakery and chocolatier with fresh, tasty homemade goods. Their coffee is by far the best you can get on the island. You’ll find Brewbaker cafe in the middle of Millport town at 17 Stuart Street, KA28 0AJ.
Where is Round Island café in Millport?
You’ll find Round Island cafe in the middle of Millport town at 51-52 Stuart Street, KA28 0AG. It’s a fresh, modernised cafe serving brilliant coffee, lunch, and baked goods.
Where is the Ritz café in Millport?
You’ll find the iconic Ritz cafe in the middle of Millport town at 26 Stuart St, KA28 0AJ.
It’s a Retro style, 1950s café with amazing ice cream. People who have visited Millport over the years all hold fond memories of this place and it’s an iconic part of the island. It is the perfect place to stop if you’re looking for a quick bite or some lunch.
📝 Planning your trip to the Isle of Cumbrae?:
This blog post is part of our ‘Ultimate Guide’ to the island. Check it out by clicking the link below:
Where is the HMS Shearwater Memorial on the Isle of Cumbrae?
You’ll find this 1844 memorial a short walk/cycle from the Cumbrae ferry slip. Turn right off the ferry and head anti-clockwise. The monument is at one of the most Northern points of the Island and was erected in memory of two young shipmen who were tragically killed in a boating accident.
Where are the public toilets on the Isle of Cumbrae?
There are four public toilets around the Isle of Cumbrae – one at Fintry Bay, one at West Bay, one at Crocodile Rock, and one at the Cumbrae Ferry Slip itself.
The Crocodile Rock public toilets have recently been refurbished and cost 40p per use (cash or card accepted). Check out the map below for all of the locations.
What watersports can I do in Millport, Isle of Cumbrae?
Unfortunately, the Sports Scotland Watersports centre closed its doors in 2020. However, the Isle of Cumbrae still offers brilliant opportunities to enjoy getting out on the water! Millport is incredibly popular with the likes of Stand Up Paddleboarding, Sea Kayaking, Snorkelling and day Sailing.
Why not rent a kayak from ‘On Yer Bike’ and explore Millport bay? Make sure to stay safe whilst enjoying watersports! Millport Bay is sheltered and protected. As you head further out, you’re exposed to elements such as currents and wind, as well as other boats. Check out the likes of the Scottish Canoe Association and RNLI for safety tips, as well as the Met Office for the weather.
Where is Lion Rock?
Lion Rock can be found on the south-eastern side of the Isle of Cumbrae, just up from the Field Sciences Council (FSC) centre. It’s a rock formation called a Dyke which, many years ago, had intruded into the existing Old Red Sandstone, creating a shape that bares an uncanny resemblance to a Lion.
Where is Indian Rock?
Indian Rock is a little more difficult to spot. It can be found on the south-western side of the Isle of Cumbrae. This guy was painted in the 1920’s and has been perched up there within the forestry ever since.
Where is Crocodile rock?
The most recognisable out of the trio of Cumbrae Rocks is the ‘Crocodile Rock’ which has been around for over 100-years! It is considered to be one of Scotland’s “quirkiest, best-known landmarks”, and you can find it in Millport bay, right next to the town.
Check out our blog on Crocodile Rock, Indian Rock and Lion Rock.
Where is the Glaidstone viewpoint?
The Glaidstone is the Isle of Cumbrae’s highest point. You’ll find the Glaidstone viewpoint on the Island’s Inner Circle Walk. Hike up for 360-panoramic views around the Firth of Cyde.
Fancy a Unique Stay on The Isle of Cumbrae?…
We’ve JUST launched bookings for our One-of-a-kind Cabin Concept in Millport.
Welcome to the next generation of self-catering accommodation in Scotland.
We think of our one-of-a-kind Cabin Concept as a crossroads where quirky interior design meets eco-consciousness, in a stunning island setting.
Bookings are now OFFICIALLY LIVE! 🚀
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What wildlife is on the Isle of Cumbrae?
The Isle of Cumbrae is a paradise for nature-lovers and wildlife watchers with over 125 species of birds, seal colonies, porpoises, and basking sharks. Around the island’s coast you can see grey seals and harbour porpoises. If you’re lucky, you may even be lucky to see Minke whales, basking sharks, and common dolphins.
Where can I go fishing on the Isle of Cumbrae?
Apparently, Farland Point, on the south-eastern tip of the island, is a great place to cast that road and catch some fish. You can hire fishing gear at Mapes cycles.
Where is the narrowest house in the UK? – The Wedge
Millport is home to what has been crowned “The Narrowest House in the UK”. The front of ‘The Wedge’ only measures 47 inches and it has a place in the Guinness Book of Records for being the narrowest ever recorded home. You’ll find The Wedge in the middle of Millport town, but keep a keen eye out, because it’s easy to miss.
Where is the smallest cathedral in Britain? – The Cathedral of The Isles
You can find the Cathedral of the Isles tucked away in the trees just behind the town of Millport. The building itself is beautiful and it’s definitely worth the 5-min meander up from the shorefront to see.
Check out:
Does Millport have a supermarket?
There are a few convenience stores in Millport. They’re not quite supermarkets, but you should find everything you could possibly need on a visit to Millport. You have Caldwells in the west of the town, the Premier store in the centre, and Hamilton’s further east, near Crocodile Rock.
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- Caldwell’s | 3-6 Stuart St | 01475 530344
- Premier Store | 24 Guilford St | 01475 530404
- Hamilton’s Convenience Store | 15 Glasgow St | 01475 530324
Where are the best places to eat on Millport, Isle of Cumbrae?
Our top picks are Brewbaker cafe, The Ritz Cafe, Fraser’s Bar, and the Crocodile Rock chippy.
In fact, we dedicated a whole blog to The Best Places to Eat in Millport.
Where are the best bars and pubs in Millport, Isle of Cumbrae?
Our top picks are Fraser’s Bar, The Newton, and The Millport Pier Hotel (formerly The George).
Which pubs have beer gardens in Millport, Isle of Cumbrae?
The pubs in Millport that have beer gardens are the Millport Pier Hotel (formerly The George), Fraser’s Bar, and The Tavern Bar.
In fact, we dedicated a whole blog to The Best Bars, Pubs & Beer Gardens in Millport.
📝 Planning your trip to the Isle of Cumbrae?:
This blog post is part of our ‘Ultimate Guide’ to the island. Check it out by clicking the link below:
What events are on in Millport?
The big annual events in Millport include the Classic Car Event in May, the Happy Daze Music Festival in June, the Millport Scooter rally in August, the Country and Western Music Festival in September, and the September weekend in… well, September. You’ll also find the Viking Festival just across the water in Largs in September.
When is the Country and Western event in Millport?
The Millport Country and Western Music Festival usually takes place on the first weekend in September.
When is the September weekend in Millport?
The Millport September weekend usually takes place on the last weekend in September.
When is the Classic Car Event in Millport?
The Millport Classic Car event usually takes place on the second weekend in May.
What are the places to stay in Millport?
There is a wide variety of options when it comes to places to stay on the Isle of Cumbrae, from AirBnB apartments to Caravans, and hotels to Unique Cabins. Check out our blog on Places to Stay in Millport, Isle of Cumbrae.
Where are places to stay on Millport with a Hot Tub?
We’ve JUST launched bookings for our One-of-a-kind Cabin Concept in Millport.
Welcome to the next generation of self-catering accommodation in Scotland.
We think of our one-of-a-kind Cabin Concept as a crossroads where quirky interior design meets eco-consciousness, in a stunning island setting.
Bookings are now OFFICIALLY LIVE! 🚀
👉 Discover The Cabins
Are there dog-friendly accommodation options in Millport, Isle of Cumbrae?
Yes, there are a small number of tourist accommodation options that welcome dogs in Millport, Isle of Cumbrae. Our blog, Places to stay in Millport, Isle of Cumbrae lists all dog-friendly options on the island.
4 of 5 of our Unique Cabins are dog-friendly.
Where are the Millport caravan parks?
If you’re looking for a caravan on Millport, you have a couple of options. We recommend Westbourne House Caravan Park for the stunning views down the Clyde and over to Wee Cumbrae.
Check out Places to stay in Millport, Isle of Cumbrae for a diverse range of tourist accommodation options.
Where can I park my camper van on the Isle of Cumbrae?
A new Motorhome site with hook-ups and waste disposal, located behind the Garrison House is open now and is only £15/night. More info here.
Where can I charge my electric vehicle in Millport, Isle of Cumbrae?
Currently, there is only one electric vehicle charging point on the Isle of Cumbrae. It is located in front of the Millport Pier Hotel, at 1 Quayhead, Isle of Cumbrae, KA28 0AP.
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Trivia on Millport, Isle of Cumbrae
How many miles around is the Isle of Cumbrae?
The Isle of Cumbrae has an outer circuit of 10.25 miles. Perfect for cycling!
How big is Millport, Isle of Cumbrae?
The Isle of Cumbrae is approximately 2 .5 miles long by 1.25 miles wide, rising to a height of 127 metres above sea level at The Glaidstone viewpoint. The island’s footprint is approximately 4.5 miles².
How far is Millport from Largs?
The Cumbrae ferry slip is approximately 1.4 miles across the Firth of Clyde, from Largs Pier. Ferries leave every 15 minutes in summer and the journey takes only 8 minutes.
How many people visit Millport every year?
Around 400,000 people visit Milloort each year! CalMac passenger data shows that there were 393,410 return journeys made to the Isle of Cumbrae in 2019.
What is the Millport ferry called?
The MV Loch Shira services the Largs – Cumbrae ferry route. The vessel was built by Ferguson Shipbuilders Ltd of Port Glasgow in 2007 and carries around 390,000 passengers each year.
How many cars does the Millport ferry carry?
The MV Loch Shira can carry approximately 32 cars and 250 foot passengers at a time.
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Some questions answered on Largs
How do you get to Largs from Glasgow?
If you are driving, fire KA30 8BG into your trusted Google Maps. That’ll take you right to the Largs ferry slip where you can grab your tickets and hop on the boat.
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- From Glasgow city centre, you join the M8 West.
- At junction 28A, exit onto A737 towards Irvine.
- At the roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto A760 towards Lochwinnoch
- Continue through Kilbirnie, following signs for Largs.
- Head over the Haylie Brae (Largs Road) and you’ll arrive in Largs.
If you’re taking the train, jump on at any stop on the Glasgow–Largs line. Trains run every hour. From Largs train station, it’s a short stroll down to the ferry terminal.
If you’re taking the bus, the 585 Stagecoach (Ayr) and 901/904/906 McGills buses (Glasgow/Greenock) both stop on Largs main street.
Where can I park in Largs?
Street parking is free throughout Largs town, but can be limited in the summer season. There is a pay-and-display Shorefront car park that costs £4/day ( up to 1 hour – £1, up to 3 hours – £3, over 3 hours – £4)
What can I do in Largs?
There are loads of things to do and see in Largs. Why not check out Magnus the Viking, or the famous Pencil Monument? Perhaps a stroll along the Largs promenade with a Nardini’s Ice cream? Kelburn Castle and Country park is a huge hit with visitors. There are also some amazing bars and restaurants in Largs.
Where can I eat in Largs?
There’s a variety of choice when it comes to places to eat and drink in Largs, from award-winning family-friendly ‘Room’, to the #1 pub grub in town at ‘The Three Reasons’.
What are the best pubs in Largs?
Our top picks for the best pubs in Largs are Ye Olde Anchor Inn, JG Sharps, and Drouthy Neebors and The Waterside. Walk straight past the Wetherspoons and support a locally owned bar.
Where is Kelburn Castle?
Kelburn Castle and Country park can be found a short walk (30 minutes) or drive (5 minutes) south from Largs town, at Kelburn Estate, Fairlie KA29 0BE.
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Ultimate Guide to Millport, Isle of Cumbrae:
For everything you need to know about planning your visit to the island, check out our full guide:
Fancy a Unique Stay on The Isle of Cumbrae?…
We’ve JUST launched bookings for our One-of-a-kind Cabin Concept in Millport.
Welcome to the next generation of self-catering accommodation in Scotland.
We think of our one-of-a-kind Cabin Concept as a crossroads where quirky interior design meets eco-consciousness, in a stunning island setting.
Bookings are now OFFICIALLY LIVE! 🚀
👉 Discover The Cabins
