Dating to 1959, “The Coasts of Clyde” was produced by British Transport Films directed by James Ritchie and written by Jack House. Here, Firth of Clyde is revealed to be a wonderful place for a holiday. This film features Bernard Braden who visits various locations such as Gourock, Wemyss Bay, Largs, Millport, and Arran. Braden tells of his pursuit of an ancestor in the land of his parents. Furnished with a Runabout Ticket, he travels around by train and steamer. In Arran he finds the ‘Scotland in miniature’ whence his grandmother sailed for the New World

• 0:43: The narrator Bernard Braden came from Canada to Scotland to see the land of their grandparents and for a holiday.

• 1:00: First glimpse of the Clyde confirmed it was a good decision.

• 1:12: The narrator starts their journey in Gourock, finding that traveling by steamer is common.

• 1:35: They catch their first steamer at Wemyss Bay, known for its well-kept station.

• 2:35: Observations about the value for money on steamers, including seeing the engines.

• 3:13: Watching the birthing operations at Largs and reflecting on the skills of the crew.

• 4:18: The narrator travels to Millport on the island of Great Cumbrae.

• 5:10: A game imported to Scotland is mentioned.

• 5:20: Visit to the Marine Biological Station to learn about local underwater creatures.

• 7:27: Largs and Rothesay are highlighted as major resorts on the Clyde.

• 7:46: The narrator sees the Highland regimental bands and their grandmother’s tartan.

• 9:01: Interest in traditional Highland events like hammer throwing and caber tossing.

• 10:10: Description of new car ferries and the Queen Mary II steamer.

• 11:14: The Clyde is famous for sailing, with notable visitors like Prince Philip.

• 11:24: The narrator takes a trip through the Kyles of Bute, a narrow and tricky channel.

• 12:47: They see seals basking on rocks, reminding them of their heritage.

• 13:30: The Church of Colonsay is mentioned with a local story.

• 14:25: The narrator visits Loch Long and enjoys the scenery.

• 15:04: “Going Dune the water” is a local tradition, sailing towards the mouth of the Firth of Clyde.

• 16:57: Observations of life on deck and the food available.

• 18:44: Arrival at Arran, described as “Scotland in miniature” with diverse landscapes.

• 19:37: The narrator sees hikers and reflects on their grandmother’s connection to Arran.

• 20:50: The narrator feels a deep connection to Arran, seeing it as a crown to their holiday memories.

Bernard Chastey Braden was a Canadian-born British actor and comedian, who is best known for his appearances in UK television and radio shows

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