It was opened in 1858 by the Glasgow, Dumbarton and Helensburgh Railway, though Bowling had received its first railway several years earlier courtesy of the  Caledonian and Dumbartonshire Junction Railway (whose Bowling Pier terminal linked into the steamer service along the  River Clyde).
The opening of the Glasgow, Dumbarton and Helensburgh Railway in 1858 marked a significant development for the area, while Bowling's initial railway line was established earlier through the Caledonian and Dumbartonshire Junction Railway. This connection to the steamer service on the River Clyde further enhanced transportation options.