Scone Spy: Our cafe critic checks out Dumbarton's Benvenuti

An amazing array of goodies at Benvenuti

Dumbarton is the kind of place I pass through on the way to more tourist-friendly destinations such as Loch Lomond, which is a further 15 minutes’ drive up the A82.

It’s always puzzled me, though, why it’s not better highlighted on the heritage trail, because it is steeped in fascinating history.

Dumbarton is the ancient capital of Strathclyde. Its medieval castle, which sits atop a fantastic volcanic rock, was besieged by Viking kings, provided shelter for Mary, Queen of Scots in 1548, and it’s where William Wallace was held before being sent to London for his execution. Legend also has it that a wizard known as Merlin visited Dumbarton Castle during the 6th Century.

History aside, when the weather is clear, you’d be hard-pushed to find a better view than those from the summit, which is why we decided to stop there on a bluebird afternoon. Sadly, when we arrived at the gates, it was closed for refurbishment!

Feeling a bit deflated, we decided to treat ourselves instead to lunch at a local cafe and the sight of a big pile of freshly baked scones by the counter cheered me up. Not a wasted journey after all.

Benvenuti is clean with unfussy decor and the menu offers traditional dishes including baked potatoes, chilli and toasties, alongside a wide selection of sweet and savoury crepes.

I chose the baked potato with tuna and a pot of tea while my companion ordered the cheese and ham toastie. The potato was properly baked in an oven with a nice golden skin while the toastie was crispy and had a tasty, generous filing. Both came with a fresh, crunchy side salad, dressed with balsamic glaze.

Then it was on to the main event. My fruit scone was an odd shape but tasted sweet and the bake was good; slightly moist on the inside, with a good crunch on the outside. It came with a pot of quality strawberry jam.

Sipping on the last of my tea, a thought occurred. Scones originated in Scotland in the 1500s so it’s possible Mary, Queen of Scots may even have enjoyed one herself, near this very spot.