Top Ten Outdoor Places to Visit in and Around Glasgow

Glasgow is one of Scotland’s most vibrant cities, brimming with culture, sights, and fun things to do including our outdoor activities. We’ve gathered together ten of the best outdoor places to visit in Glasgow to get your stay off to a cracking start!

1) Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park:

This national park is just a short distance from Glasgow by car, train, or bus, and enthusiastic cyclists and runners can tackle the journey too! It boasts stunning landscapes, numerous hiking trails, water sports activities, and opportunities for wildlife watching. Balloch Castle and country park are at the foot of the Loch with a walled garden and gentle walks available through the woodland. The Conic Hill is reachable by bus and is a short but steep climb to the summit overlooking the loch. For the more adventurous, there are plenty of more challenging climbs too such as Ben Lomond and The Cobbler further north. It’s the ideal place for those who love outdoor activities!

2) Treasure Hunts:

Treasure hunts are the perfect way to explore a city, whether you’re a visitor or a local keen to see their hometown from a new perspective. Working together with friends to solve the puzzles is great fun and you’ll get to explore new parts of the city. There are plenty of providers in Glasgow so you’ll be spoiled for choice!

3) Kelvingrove Park:

Located in the West End of Glasgow, this picturesque Victorian park is perfect for a relaxing stroll no matter the season. It features the River Kelvin, breathtaking views across the University of Glasgow, and the grand Stewart Memorial Fountain. The Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum are also nearby, hosting regular exhibitions.

4) Glasgow Paddleboarders Co.:

Whether you want to take lessons, go on a trip, or just hire a board for the day, Glasgow Paddleboarders are for you. They operate in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park and also around the Forth and Clyde Canal in Glasgow.

5) The Forth and Clyde Canal:

You can also explore this historic canal on foot or by bike, taking in the scenic views and stopping at various points of interest along the way. There is plenty of wildlife to spot with herons, swans, and ducks a common sight. Glasgow has OVO bikes to rent from various locations around the city making it easier than ever to get outdoors!

6) Hidden Lane:

The Hidden Lane is tucked away in Finnieston, in the West End of the city. It’s a treasure trove of local businesses selling everything from handmade pottery and jewellery to tacos and craft beer. Enjoy browsing, pick up some gifts for friends and family, and then treat yourself to an afternoon tea at the Hidden Lane Tea Room.

7) Queens Park:

Glasgow’s Queens Park can be found on the city’s Southside. The short climb up to the flagpole delivers amazing views over the city, with Ben Lomond and the Campsie Fells in the distance. The area around the park is teeming with independent cafes, bars, and restaurants, so it’s easy to pick up a takeaway coffee or find a spot in a beer garden while the sun’s shining.

8) Falls of Clyde/New Lanark:

The Falls of Clyde is an iconic waterfall just a short journey from Glasgow by train, bus, or car. It’s a fantastic chance to see the iconic River Clyde in a more natural setting. The route to the waterfall is along a winding path with gorgeous views down into the valley. Nearby is the historical New Lanark cotton mill village designed by social pioneer Robert Owen, along with a hotel and cafe.

9) Malones Irish Bar:

Malones Irish Bar is just off Sauchiehall Street in the heart of the city centre. It’s the place to go for quality pub food, whisky, and live music. If you haven’t had enough of the great Scottish outdoors, the rooftop terrace is open all year round with heaters to keep out the chill.

10) Pollok Country Park:

Pollok park is the perfect destination for a day out with walking trails through extensive woodlands, highland cows grazing in the fields, and paths along the scenic White Cart Water. The Edwardian mansion Pollok House sits in the grounds and is well worth a visit, with a cosy café for lunch after. The newly refurbished Burrell Collection is nearby too with an impressive range of objects from all over the world. It also houses a restaurant, so you won’t go hungry!