is in Scotland. It has a population of around 90,000 and covers approximately 16,000 hectares. Here is a list of nearby or neighbouring counties: Argyll and Bute, East Dunbartonshire, Glasgow City, Inverclyde, Renfrewshire, Stirling
West Dunbartonshire (called Siorrachd Dhun Bhreatainn an Iar in Scottish Gaelic) is home to many of the people who work in nearby Glasgow and connected to Renfrewshire by the Erskine Bridge, which spans the River Clyde. There is evidence of human settlement in the area dating back to the Iron Age and running through it are remains of part of the Antonine Wall. The main council offices are in the town of Dumbarton, which is overlooked by Dumbarton Rock, that since ancient times was the site of fortifications which were a centre of power in the region. A castle has stood on the volcanic basalt for more than a thousand years, though little remains of the medieval structure when it was an important Royal castle and most of what can be seen today was constructed during the 18th century. Visitors can climb the hundreds of steps leading to features such as the White Tower Crag, to enjoy a commanding view of the surrounding landscape, though climbing is not permitted on Dumbarton Rock, which is a Scheduled Ancient Monument. Run by the National Trust for Scotland, Geilston Garden was created more than two hundred years ago and is popular with visitors who come to appreciate the tranquility of the picturesque gardens, with paths running between a wide range of colourful plants, with a stream, bridges, waterfall and woodland walk.
The largest town in West Dunbartonshire is Clydebank, which during the Industrial Revolution grew from a rural area to become a major shipbuilding town. Testament to this history is the listed Titan Clydebank crane, constructed between 1906 and 1907, that has received a Heritage Award and the status of being an engineering landmark of international importance. Clydebank Museum and Art Gallery houses collections reflecting local industrial and social history, such as ship building tools, glass making and items such as clothing worn by people living and working in the area, as well as hundred of sewing machines. There is a collection of silver items and both permanent and temporary exhibitions of fine art, with work by local artists as well pieces from across Scotland and the rest of the UK. Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park is a popular destination for those who enjoy the fresh air and the landscape of forests, mountains, lochs and islands, which have inspired artists and writers, including William Wordsworth and Sir Walter Scott. Other attractions in West Dunbartonshire include the Kilpatrick Hills and the remains of Balloch Castle, which has in the past been used as a venue for music events.
