The best spots for a scenic walk around Glasgow and the West
Get inspired for your next adventure!
Last updated 24th Jun 2022
Whether you are a seasoned hill walker with all the right equipment, or someone who just finds themselves out for a wander one day, central Scotland is full of a variety of beautiful, scenic walks.
The Scottish landscapes are so varied and with options to climb steep hills, or trek for hours through flat woodland, there is a walk for everyone and every mood. The views on offer are incredible, from lochs to castles, and historical sites to moody mountains.
Scotland is the home of many famous walks, not least the mighty Ben Nevis, but every single nook and cranny of our land holds a gem of a walk. We've put together a list of some of the best places to get out and explore around Glasgow.
The best walks in and around Glasgow:
Dumgoyne and Earl’s Seat
Approximately 16 miles from Glasgow's city centre, and near Killearn, the steep peak of Dumgoyne is a local landmark towering at an impressive 709 metres. This is not a walk for the faint-hearted as it is a pretty steep climb and a total of 10.75km. Unquestionably this means that the views from the top are simply stunning.
How long does it take to climb Dumgoyne and Earl's Seat?
An average walker in average conditions would complete the walk in three to four hours.
How difficult is it to climb Dumgoyne and Earl's Seat?
The climb is pretty steep, and the path is eroded in some areas. The moorland section towards Earl's Seat can become quite boggy, so is a bit tougher underfoot. It isn't advisable in poor weather, nor for beginners.
Campsie Glen
Situated in Clachan of Campsie, this is an incredibly popular walk. It is a short drive from Glasgow, (approximately 13 miles from the city centre). The walk itself is short and this together with the views of mountains and waterfalls, makes it a top destination for many. An easy walk, it is good for beginners, or on a hot day. If you are looking for something a bit more energetic there is the option to incorporate a steep climb.
How challenging is it to walk up Campsie Glen?
This is an easy climb, it is short, and the peak is only 35 metres. The pathways are good. There is an option to include a steeper section if desired.
The Clyde Walkway
If you prefer a longer walk, there are many steadier, longer walks to enjoy in Glasgow. The Clyde Walkway is one of our favourites; it will take you on an urban walk from Partick to New Lanark in South Lanarkshire. The walk affords fantastic views and historical sites, before culminating in a stunning gorge with waterfalls.
How difficult is the walk along the Clyde Walkway?
The walk is straightforward and waymarked in places. There are muddy sections, but the main challenge is the total distance of 65km.
The Whangie
Resting in the Kilpatrick Hills, the Whangie is a fantastic feature of nature. It is an odd section of rock and the hill peaks at 180 metres. As you would expect at this height, it offers breath-taking views from the top. You can see clear and amazing views of Loch Lomond, the Campsie Hills and Burncrooks Reservoir.
The path is good at the start but quickly deteriorates. Towards the top it becomes muddy and boggy. The Whangie itself is a surprising feature, the walls of the rock are over 50 feet high and this area is commonly used as a training venue for various walking grades. The total distance covered during the walk is 4.5km and takes on average 1.5 hours to 2 hours to complete.
This is one worth doing, if only for the unbelievable views.
How hard is it to walk up The Whangie?
It is one of the easier walks as it is a short one, and only one main steep section. However, the mushy terrain for a large chunk of the walk make it tougher to navigate, particularly in bad weather.
Ben Lomond
Ben Lomond is an incredibly popular munro in Scotland. This loch-side walk rewards climbers with stunning views of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs.
How long does it take to climb Ben Lomond?
It soars to a massive 990 metres and the walk takes on average 4.5 to 5.5 hours to complete.
It is a very well-maintained route with excellent pathways. For those feeling bold, there is an alternative descent path which is significantly steeper but is rocky and muddy.
The walk is a fantastic feast for the eyes, right from the beginning. The initial ascent is through a lovely wooded area, then an area of cleared forestry with silver birch trees. You will meet cattle and sheep as you steadily climb, and then when the gradient starts to level out you catch sight of the peak of the mountain and the zig-zagging pathway to get there. There is a steep section for the final ascent before it levels off and gently curves around the top of the mountain bringing you nicely to the summit.
It is easy to see why Ben Lomond is such a favourite for residents and visitors alike. It is challenging, beautiful and varied. Not one to miss.
How hard is it to climb Ben Lomond?
The climb is a steady gradient up to 990 metres so is hard work. However, the excellent paths make it easy to manage. If you are comfortable with around 5-6 hours walking, it is more than manageable.
Ben A'an
Ben A'an is one of the smaller hills in Scotland is a very popular among hill walkers. Located in the Trossachs, the incredible views from the top of the 461m peak overlook Loch Katrine. There is a car park but it fills up quickly especially on sunny days.
How difficult is it to climb Ben A'an?
The paths to the top are well-maintained, however it gets steep at beginning of the walk and at the top. The walk is 3.7km/2.25 miles long and will take between 2-4 hours to complete. Overall its a great walk for families.
Glasgow and the surrounding areas have innumerable places to walk, whether you are looking for height, distance or varied terrain. This is just a small list of our favourites.
Our top tip is to ensure you prepare well, plan for all weather types (it is Glasgow after all!), and always carry plenty of water. For further tips, or information on these walks visit: www.walkhighlands.co.uk
How can I listen to Clyde 1?
There are lots of ways you can listen to Clyde 1, you can find us on your good old traditional radio.
You can listen here on our website, download our free app for iPhone and Android, or ask your Smart Speaker to 'play Clyde 1'.
How can I listen to Clyde 2?
There are a number of ways you can listen to Clyde 2 you can find us on your good old traditional radio.
You can listen here on our website, download our free app for iPhone and Android, or ask your Smart Speaker to 'play Clyde 2'.
How can I download the Clyde 1 and Clyde 2 App?
You can listen to all of your favourite Clyde 1 and Clyde 2 shows on our free Radio Clyde app.
Download the Clyde 1 app for iOS on the App Store
Download the Clyde 1 app for Android on Google Play
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