Passing over the Clyde

This is my view from my morning train to work. Below me is The Broomielaw. Nowadays appear the modern office buildings of the International Financial District.

But in years gone by the view would've been much different. The Broomielaw is most famous as the place where thousands of Glaswegians boarded steamers to go ‘doon the watter’ for a day trip or seaside holiday.

Passengers boarded one of the elegant paddle steamers heading for coastal resorts such as Largs or Dunoon, and Rothesay on the Isle of Bute.

The number of steamer routes meant affluent business people could commute, working in Glasgow during the week and joining their families at their country villas for the weekend.

The steamers are long gone, with the exception of The Waverley. Which still goes 'doon the watter' in the summer.