Skip to main content
Tourist Attraction

Pencil Beach

Pencil Beach

View on Google Maps

Photo: Linsey McNaught

In short: Pencil Beach is an attraction in Largs, rated 4.5 out of 5 from 450 Google reviews.

Details checked · source: Google Places

About Pencil Beach

This sheltered Largs cove offers an ideal spot for little ones taking their first dips in Scottish waters, with convenient parking close by though facilities are limited.

Good to know

Parking

  • ✓Free car park
  • ✓Paid car park
  • ✓Free street

Accessibility

  • ✓Accessible parking
  • ✓Accessible entrance

Details via Google — worth confirming with the attraction before you travel, especially for access needs.

Photos

Photos via Google

Opening hours

Monday
Open 24 hours
Tuesday
Open 24 hours
Wednesday
Open 24 hours
Thursday
Open 24 hours
Friday
Open 24 hours
Saturday
Open 24 hours
Sunday
Open 24 hours

Current hours may differ from the usual schedule above (e.g. holidays) — check Google Maps for today's hours.

What visitors say

rach

Really nice view. I love walking here with my dog. It has plenty information about the monument too if you're into that sort of thing

· via Google

Dennis Smalley

Situated on a small peninsula close to Largs Marina. This monument commemorates the Battle of Largs where in 1263 a large Viking fleet invasion jnder command of King Haakon lV was repulsed by King Alexander lll's Scottish forces. The vikings had been hampered by a fierce storm in the Firth of Clyde which aided the Scots defence. In Largs town you can visit the Vikingar Exhibition with its great audio/ visual displays The pencil monument was erected in 1912.

· via Google

Unconscious Mum

We used to call this the Needle and would go there as kids. I'd completely forgotten all the history and information of course 40 years later so was happy to read the information sign. It would be so brilliant to be able to see inside one day...maybe doors open day??? The walk from the car park can take as long as you want, if you have a child, you can stop on the grass, climb trees, play on pretend toadstools, sit on benches, play in streams, go down to the beach, peer at the boats, watch the sailing classes, look in the marina shops and cafe, in reality the walk can be 10mins at the most to get there! Dogs love this place too and people do seem to clean up after their dogs because my youngest was doing gymnastics on the grass and was safe! I mean she got dirty but not from dog poppy!!! And the sea is near for a clean!

· via Google

Paul Taylorson

We visited Largs whilst on holiday locally. Lovely busy seaside town. Decided to visit the pencil monument as we'd seen it as a local landmark. It's a nice walk along the coastline on a sunny day which it was .

· via Google

See all reviews on Google →

Visitors say this monument offers beautiful panoramic views of the Firth of Clyde and surrounding islands, and provides historical information about the Battle of Largs. They also highlight the peaceful setting, making it a great place for a walk or photography. Others mention the convenient parking and the pleasant coastal walk to reach it.

Summary via Google

At a glance

Address
Largs Get directions
Category
Beaches & Coastline
Guest rating
4.5 / 5 (450 reviews)
Suitable for
All Ages
Setting
Outdoor
Good for children
Yes
Toilets on site
No
Destination
Largs

Quick answers

What are the opening hours of Pencil Beach?

Pencil Beach is open Mon–Sun 24 hours (from its Google listing; hours can change on bank holidays, so check before you go).

Is Pencil Beach any good?

Pencil Beach is rated 4.5 out of 5 from 450 Google reviews.

Is Pencil Beach good for children?

Yes, Pencil Beach is listed as good for children.

Is Pencil Beach indoors or outdoors?

Pencil Beach is mainly outdoors.

What ages is Pencil Beach suitable for?

Pencil Beach suits all ages.

Is Pencil Beach wheelchair accessible?

Pencil Beach has a wheelchair-accessible entrance.

Is there parking at Pencil Beach?

Yes: free car park, paid car park and free street parking.

Get the best UK staycation deals

The latest offers on cottages, campsites and hotels, plus new ideas for breaks around Britain. Straight to your inbox, no spam.

By signing up you agree to receive emails from Staycation.co.uk. Unsubscribe any time. See our Privacy Policy.