McLean Museum, Greenock

I was completely fascinated to visit the new McLean Museum in 2008. It's in the same building as the Watt Library; in fact, as a child I used to go up the old stone stairs at the back of the library which would take me to the gallery where the natural history museum was in those days. Usually it was deserted and I would wander round and round for ages looking at the stuffed animals, birds' eggs, butterflies, insects and many other interesting things. Now the building has been renovated and modernised and it is quite different. The old staircase isn't used any more (though it is still there behind a door - I was shown where it was when I asked where it had gone!) Some of the old features remain (and some of the original stuffed animals too) but there are many new categories - not just natural history but collections from many cultures across the centuries, industrial, marine, local and social history. There is a great deal to see and I need to return when there is more time (and my poor husband isn't having to wait for me in the car)!

Here is the link to the McLean Museum website

Watt Library, Greenock

This place holds very special memories for me of when it was the main lending library in the town (with a great children's section) and I was a very proud member for a few years in the late '50s/early '60s! I just loved being brought in here by my mother or aunties to browse the books and take one or two away for a week - I could have spent hours in here even then! I also managed to obtain a temporary membership when I stayed for summer holidays as an older child and teenager.

I revisited in October 2008 to take the photos below. I was thrilled to see the statue of James Watt, which used to fill me with awe when I was young (actually, I confess it still did!) The library is still beautiful inside but has seen many other changes throughout the years. Of course, now, it is mainly a local history and genealogy library although still apparently a lending library too with adult and children’s books to borrow. There are also computers, talking books and a photocopier there now which were certainly not around in my day!

The Greenock Cut 2

One of our favourite walks, which is in the hills above Greenock and close to Loch Thom; we usually start at the Cornalees Centre (below) which is a good place to have a drink and a snack afterwards! These photos were taken in October 2008.

Inverkip and the Clyde from the Cut

A farm close to the Cut and path - you can see a closer photo in my previous blog here, plus more information about this beautiful area

Beow, a waterfall near to the Cornalees Centre (closer in the video clip at the end)