A stone approach and timber head preserve the town’s connection with Clyde steamer travel.
Quick facts
- Date
- Earlier pier 1816; main reconstruction 1859; timber extension 1871
- Architect / designer
- William Spence for the 1859 work
- Type
- Stone and timber pier
- OS grid reference
- NS 29380 82030
The building and its setting
Large red sandstone blocks form the long approach, with iron mooring posts along its edges. At the outer end, closely spaced timber piles support a wider platform. The contrast in construction reveals successive responses to landing and berthing requirements.
Its story
The pier was rebuilt in 1859 and extended in timber in 1871 as coastal travel expanded. Its later history includes competition from railway-connected Craigendoran. In July 2026 the council reported a proposed survey and work towards a charity lease to support repairs; reopening remained conditional.
Why it is included
Records the maritime infrastructure central to the town’s development.
What to look for
- The stone approach from open waterfront viewpoints
- The change to timber construction at the outer end
Reading the surroundings
View only from open public waterfront areas. Respect fencing and closure notices; do not enter the pier.
What we know — and what remains uncertain
The latest council account consulted states that the pier is fenced off with no public access. Older references to steamer calls do not establish current service. The public toilet building is excluded from the listing.
Sources & further reading
- Historic Environment Scotland: LB52502 — Designation, grid location and architectural development; historical observations are not a fresh condition survey.
- Argyll and Bute Council: pier update, 13 July 2026 — Confirms closure, restricted access and proposed survey/lease arrangements.
Location
OS grid reference NS 29380 82030 · Location confidence: HES national-grid point converted to WGS84; approximate location, not an entrance or statutory boundary. · Select the marker to open its satellite view in Google Maps. On desktop, drag Pegman (the yellow figure) onto a blue road. On mobile, turn on the Street View layer and tap a blue road. Other photo markers may be user-contributed.
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