21/07/2026
Today marks Glasgow Fair Monday! Glasgow Fair is one of the oldest holidays in Scotland, and can be traced back to the 12th Century. The ease of rail and steamer travel by the mid-1800s meant that the city would practically empty, with many Glaswegians heading to the West Coast for a holiday ‘doon the watter.’ Dunoon was a much loved destination, described as ‘one of the most popular watering resorts on the Clyde.’ 🌊
Highland Mary has proudly overlooked Dunoon Pier from her spot on Castle Hill for 130 years this year, installed in August 1896. This postcard dates from around the 1950s, showing individuals watching a packed steamer from Mary’s prime position on the Hill. Steamers would come and go, carrying throngs of excited passengers through the four seasons of the Scottish Summer. ☀️ 🌧️
The first Glasgow Fair holiday Mary witnessed was July 1897, described as a time of ‘delightful weather’ that attracted an even higher number of visitors than expected. The boat-hirers at the West Bay reportedly found themselves overrun with customers, with the combination of strong sunshine and calm waters ensuring they ‘reaped a plentiful harvest.’ We are sure Mary may have been jealous of those who could cool down by taking a dook (and, of course, those who were not cast in bronze during the blazing heat.) 🌤️
We are marking the 130th anniversary of the unveiling of Highland Mary this year with a series of free Summer events this month and next. From craft workshops to a guided tour of Dunoon’s ‘Female Trailblazers,’ there is something for everyone. See our website for more information: https://www.castlehousemuseum.org.uk/what-s-on
Thank you to the Hugh Fraser Foundation for supporting these workshops.