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5 Best Day Trips from Glasgow

Fancy a brilliant day trip from Glasgow? This dynamic city is centrally located in Scotland, which means there are plenty of historic attractions, castles, lochs, outdoor activities and remarkable landscapes right on Glasgow's doorstep. Here are some ideas and inspiration for great days out from Glasgow, from exploring national parks to an adventure on the coast.  

Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Stirlingshire

Loch Katrine seen from the summit of Ben A'an in The Trossachs

© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

Time from Glasgow: 50-minute train, 45-minute drive 

Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park is one of Scotland’s national parks and is the perfect place to unplug from city life and explore some of the country’s most iconic scenery.  

Easily accessible by public transport from the centre of Glasgow, it’s amazing how quickly you can find yourself transported to woodland walks, rugged mountains and the bonnie, bonnie banks of Loch Lomond. The park has over 720 square miles to discover, with 21 Munros, 22 larger lochs and one of the UK’s largest National Nature Reserves – The Great Trossachs Forest. Take a cruise on the famous loch, kayak around some of the smaller islands dotted around the park or relax and unwind on the sandy beaches on the shorefront. 

Largs Ayrshire

Largs seafront and the Pencil Monument

Time from Glasgow: 1-hour train, 45-minute drive 

If you’re looking for an easy day trip from Glasgow to breathe in the fresh sea air, then Largs is for you! 

The town is a traditional seaside holiday escape on the west coast of Scotland, situated on the Firth of Clyde. Make sure you soak up all the classic beach holiday activities to enjoy, from strolling along the Victorian promenade to savouring an ice cream from Nardini’s - an iconic 1930s ice cream parlour with panoramic views. The town also has a rich history with strong Viking links, famous for a battle in 1263 when Alexander III defeated a Viking fleet of longboats. The Isle of Cumbrae is also only a short ferry trip from Largs and is well worth a visit.  

Isle of Arran Ayrshire and Arran

The pools at Glen Rosa with a view of Goat Fell on the Isle of Arran

Time from Glasgow: 45-minute train to Ardrossan, followed by 55-minute ferry   

The Isle of Arran is one of the most accessible islands off the west coast of Scotland. Just a short train or bus journey takes you to Ardrossan station, where you can catch a ferry to the island in under an hour. 

Arran is often described as ‘Scotland in miniature’ with beautiful seascapes, lochs, hills, standing stones and castles to discover. For those looking for adventure, its twisting roads and hilly landscapes lend itself to some excellent cycling routes, or you could climb Goatfell – the highest point on the island. There’s even an Arran Snorkel Trail if you’re ready to dive in! If history and heritage is more your thing, make sure you visit Brodick Castle, Gardens and Country Park, which was once the seat of the Dukes of Hamilton and has some lovely walks and trails in the grounds. At the north end of the island you’ll find Lochranza Distillery, where you can take a tour and sample a wee dram before heading back through to Glasgow.  

Stirling Central Scotland

Stirling Old Bridge

Time from Glasgow: 30-minute train, 45-minute drive 

Stirling is the historic heart of Scotland and an easy 30-minute train journey from Glasgow city centre. It’s the perfect day trip from Glasgow for history lovers and a great access point to explore the rolling hills and abundant fields of the surrounding countryside. 

There are so many iconic spots to visit in Stirling, it’s hard to know where to begin! Wander through the atmospheric medieval streets of the city centre and head up to Stirling Castle, which sits perched atop volcanic rocks and overlooks the whole city. It has a rich history and was the royal residence for many of Scotland’s kings and queens, including Mary Queen of Scots. From Stirling you can also take the short bus trip to the Wallace Monument – a stunning tower dedicated to Scotland’s national hero, William Wallace. It offers spectacular views across Stirlingshire as well as over Bannockburn, where Robert the Bruce defeated the English in 1314.  

New Lanark Lanarkshire

New Lanark Visitor Centre

Lanarkshire spans a wide area around Glasgow and is full of beautiful landscapes to uncover, including the Falls of Clyde and the hills of the Southern Uplands.  

Take the train to Lanark, an historic Royal Burgh with characterful streets, independent shops and green spaces to wander. A short drive or 30-minute walk takes you to New Lanark, a UNESCO World Heritage Site based in a former 18th century cotton spinning mill village, once owned by Robert Owen. Learn more about the people who worked here, and the rich textile heritage of the area. You can visit the Mill Cafe for a bite to eat, or the Mill Shop to take home your own unique gift. All of this is set within a National Nature Reserve, so there are also lots of picturesque surroundings to enjoy whilst you’re out of the city. 

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15 Best Day Trips from Glasgow You Need to Do

While the list of  things to do in Glasgow  is extensive, Scotland ’s largest city is also an ideal base for taking some great day trips to explore the breathtaking countryside, bustling towns and peaceful villages of Scotland .

From the serene beauty of Loch Lomond to the crowded streets of  Edinburgh  – there are plenty of exciting places to visit near Glasgow.

With frequent trains leaving from two main train stations and a well-connected network of buses – planning the day trip couldn’t be any easier.

So, when you get knackered after visiting the fascinating museums , exploring all the colourful street arts on  Glasgow Mural Trail  and discovering the  hidden gems , venture out of the city to see a different side of Scotland.

This article brings together some of the best day trips you can take alongside the information on how to get here. So, add a few of them to your  Glasgow itinerary  on your next visit.

Day trips less than one hour from Glasgow

1. loch lomond.

You can’t visit Glasgow and not take a day trip to the stunningly gorgeous Loch Lomond . From scenic boat tours to numerous hiking trails – this area is a nature lovers’ paradise. With easy public transport options, you can easily escape the hubbub of Glasgow and spend a day in nature.

One of the must-visit places in Loch Lomond is Luss . Often regarded as one of the prettiest villages in Scotland , Luss is located on the western bank of Loch Lomond.

Meander along the pretty village streets and the pier. The streets are adorned with quaint cottages with small gardens, which look very photogenic. Also, this village is a popular site for water sports and adventure activities.

Next, take a relaxing boat cruise around the lake to appreciate the beauty of Loch Lomond and the surrounding landscapes. Also, peel your eyes for wildlife. 

Boat trips pass small islands, castles and villages along the shoreline. Balloch, Balmaha and Luss are popular places to catch a boat tour.

For an awe-inspiring view over Loch Lomond, climb the Conic Hill from Balmaha. Expert hikers might be interested in trekking the mighty Ben Lomond, Scotland’s most southerly Munro.

How to Reach Loch Lomond : Getting here using public transport is super easy and budget-friendly. Hop on ScotRail train service from Glasgow Queen Street to Balloch, which takes around 48 minutes. Otherwise, take a Scottish Citylink bus from Buchanan Bus Station.

2. Edinburgh

No visit to Scotland is complete without seeing its capital city of Edinburgh . The Old and New Town of Edinburgh were added to the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage Site list in 1995. This city is unarguably one of the unmissable day trip choices from Glasgow.

Start your adventure with the iconic Edinburgh Castle . This 900-year-old castle sits atop an extinct volcanic rock and houses the oldest Crown Jewel in Britain.

Next, meander along the cobbled streets of Royal Mile to explore the historic buildings. Marvel at Scott Monument – a memorial dedicated to renowned Scottish author Sir Walter Scott. Climb Arthur’s Seat for the best views of the Edinburgh skyline.

For all Harry Potter fans, a visit to the colourful Victoria Street and Greyfriars Kirkyard is a must. A slight detour to Dean Village and Stockbridge will show you a unique side of the city. End your day with a beautiful sunset over Edinburgh from Calton Hill , before heading back to Glasgow. 

How to Reach Edinburgh : Scottish Citylink and Megabus runs regular bus services from Buchanan Bus Station. At peak hours, the bus leaves every 15 minutes. Also, you can catch trains from Glasgow Queen Street and Central stations, which take around 45 minutes.

3. Stirling

Steeped in centuries of riveting history, this medieval city is an excellent day trip option for all history lovers visiting Glasgow. There are so many amazing things to do in Stirling .

One of the main attractions in Stirling is the mighty Stirling Castle. Perched over a volcanic rocky hill, Stirling Castle is one of the oldest castles in Scotland . It once served as the home for Scottish kings and queens.

Today, you can explore the Great Hall, the Royal Chapel and the Royal Palace. Also, you will get an amazing view of the surrounding landscapes from here. 

Battle of Stirling Bridge and Battle of Bannockburn – two famous battles of Scottish history were fought near the close vicinity of this castle.

Meander around the Old Town Cemetery and The Church of the Holy Rude adjacent to the castle. Also, you can follow The Back Walk, a dedicated scenic pathway along the old town walls of Stirling.  

Another must-see landmark in Stirling is the National Wallace Monument. The 220-foot tall tower is dedicated to William Wallace, a national hero of Scotland. 

How to Reach Stirling : Trains from Glasgow Queens Street Station take about 30 minutes to get to Stirling. Alternatively, you can catch a bus from Buchanan Bus Station.

4. Falkirk & Linlithgow

Falkirk makes a great day out from Glasgow by train. The Falkirk Wheel and the Kelpies are two main tourist attractions in Falkirk.

The Falkirk Wheel is the world’s only rotating boat lift connecting the Forth and Clyde Canal with the Union Canal. You can enjoy boat rides and various water-based sports activities. If you want to stretch your legs, walk to the nearby Antonine Wall. Built by the Romans around AD142, the Antonine Wall is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The walk is clearly signposted.

The Kelpies are two gigantic horse-head metal sculptures. Created by reputed Scottish sculptor Andy Scott, this iconic structure is located in Helix Park. It’s a reminder of the horse-driven industrial heritage of this area.

Linlithgow is just a 9-minute train ride from Falkirk. The historic ruins of Linlithgow Palace attract tourists to this pretty town. It is the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots, one of the most prominent figures in Scottish history. Also, it served as a royal residence in the 15th and 16th centuries.

How to Reach : Trains run regularly between Glasgow Queens Street and Falkirk High Station. It takes only 20 minutes. There are bus and train connections between Falkirk and Linlithgow.

5. Ayrshire

Ayrshire is a popular destination for day-trippers from Glasgow. It is famous for its stunning coastline, numerous golf courses and its connection with Robert Burns, the national poet of Scotland. 

You can visit the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum in the village of Alloway. Inside the museum, you will find several artefacts, manuscripts and artworks. You can also see the small cottage where he was born and raised. Meander around the Alloway Auld Kirk and Brig O’ Doon, immortalised in the poet’s work.

Ayrshire is also home to the famous Culzean Castle, one of the most picturesque castles in Scotland. Designed by Robert Adam in the late 18th century, this castle sits inside a large country park.

Before heading back to Glasgow, ramble around Ayr town centre. This seaside town has a long sandy beach, which is perfect for sunbathing, swimming and building sandcastles.

How to Reach Ayr : Trains from Glasgow usually take about 50 minutes to get to Ayr. Also, there is a bus service operated by Stagecoach.

6. New Lanark

This day trip from Glasgow is perfect for all history and heritage enthusiasts. In 1786, David Dale built cotton mills and housing in New Lanark by the River Clyde. Later, under the pioneering Robert Owen, the mills flourished. He implemented many revolutionary ideas that were way ahead of his time. The mills operated until 1968. 

Visitors can explore and learn about the history of these 200-year-old restored mills and houses. In 2001, UNESCO added this historic place to their list of World Heritage Sites. New Lanark is now one of the six UNESCO sites in Scotland.

While here, take a short woodland walk to see the magical Falls of Clyde, stunning cascading waterfalls. Also, watch out for the wildlife.

If you are a keen walker or mountain biker, follow the Clyde Walkway, which goes through this village.

How to Reach New Lanark : From Glasgow Central Station, catch a train to Lanark, which takes about an hour. Once there, you can hop on a local bus or walk around 1.3 miles to get to the New Lanark Visitor Centre.

Day trips between one to two hours from Glasgow

7. inveraray.

Nestled on the bank of Loch Fyne, Inveraray is one of the most charming small towns in Scotland. Also, it is one of our favourite day trip destinations from Glasgow.

One of the main tourist attractions in Inveraray is the magnificent Inveraray Castle. It is one of the most beautiful castles in Scotland and the ancestral home of the chief of Clan Campbell. The castle is usually open from April to October. Take a tour of this green castle to learn about its colourful past. 

After visiting the castle, climb to the nearby Dun Na Cuaiche Viewpoint. This walking circuit is properly waymarked and takes about two hours to complete. From the top, admire the breathtaking panoramic view over Loch Fyne, the surrounding mountains, and the town.

Next, meander along the shore of Loch Fyne, the longest sea loch in Scotland. Look out for the beautiful Inveraray War Memorial. Sit on one of the benches near the loch and enjoy the tranquillity of nature. 

Also, pop into the quaint white-washed independent shops, cafes and restaurants in the town centre.

How to Reach Inveraray : Catch CityLink bus service 926 or 976 from Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station. It typically takes around 1 hour and 50 minutes to reach Inveraray. By car, it takes about an hour and a half from Glasgow.

With frequent train services from Glasgow Queen Street Station, a day trip to Dundee is super easy. Home to the V&A, Dundee is famous for its ‘jute, jam and journalism’ and industrial past.

Opened in 2018, the visually striking building of V&A Dundee displays art and designs from Scotland. It is also the first V&A museum outside of London and one of the must-visit tourist attractions in Dundee . 

Right next to the museum, stands the RSS Discovery – the historical ship that took Captain Scott to Antarctica. Inside, you will find extensive galleries, video and film shows, and artefacts used by the crew in their voyages. Also, take a leisurely stroll along the gorgeous waterfront of Dundee.

Next, walk towards the city centre. Watch out for the Desperate Dan Statue on the High Street. Visit the McManus, Dundee’s Art Gallery and Museum to see a superb collection of fine arts. The stunning Gothic-Revival architecture of the exterior is very photogenic as well.

Climb the Dundee Law for a stunning view over the city skyline and the River Tay. If you are not too short on time, we recommend a visit to the nearby Broughty Ferry and Glamis Castle.

How to Reach Dundee : It takes around one and a half hours from Glasgow by train.

9. Isle of Arran

The Isle of Arran is an incredibly beautiful island in the Firth of Clyde. Known as “Scotland in Miniature”, this island is an epic day trip choice from Glasgow. It showcases all the best things of Scotland in a nutshell – dramatic mountain peaks, castles, scenic coastlines, waterfalls, distilleries and quaint little villages. 

It might be a small island, but there is so much to keep you busy. Brodick is the main town of Arran. You will find many shops and restaurants there. History lovers will like a tour of Brodick Castle. It was once home to the powerful Dukes of Hamilton. 

There are many hiking trails around the island suitable for all levels. Experienced hikers can climb Goat Fell, the highest mountain on the Isle of Arran. For beginners, we recommend a walk to Machrie Moor stone circles, Glen Sannox and King’s Cave circuit.

One of our favourite places on this island is Lochranza. Located in the northern part of Arran, Lochranza has a ruined castle, a distillery, red deer and stunning views over to the Firth of Clyde.

How to Reach Arran : Board a train from Glasgow Central Station to Ardrossan Harbour, which takes about 45 minutes. From Ardrossan, hop on a CalMac ferry to Brodick in Arran. The crossing takes around 25 minutes.

10. St Abbs, Scottish Border

You can add this picturesque fishing village to your road trip itinerary down the North Sea coast of Scotland. While getting to St Abbs using public transport is quite time-consuming, it is a perfect place for a wee day trip from Glasgow by car.

It might be a tiny fishing village on the Berwickshire coast, but there are plenty of amazing things to do in St Abbs . Also, it happens to be one of the prettiest villages in Scotland .

St Abbs was featured in Avengers: Endgame movie and a Harry Styles music video. It is famous for its rugged coastline, abundance of wildlife, eye-catching views and various nature trails.

From the village, follow the waymarked path to see the seabird colony and a scenic lighthouse on St Abbs Head National Nature Reserve. The circular circuit takes around two hours to complete.

You can also take a wildlife boat tour departing from the village harbour.

Before leaving St Abbs, don’t forget to sample some delicious freshly caught seafood at Ebbcarrs Cafe, near the harbour.

How to Reach St Abbs : From Glasgow, it typically takes about an hour and forty minutes to get to St Abbs by car.

11. Isle of Bute

Regarded as one of the most accessible Scottish islands, the Isle of Bute is a great choice for spending a day out from Glasgow.

Rothesay is the largest town on the island and a charming Victorian seaside resort. The main ferry terminal on the island is also located here. Take a ramble around the marina and admire the waterfront. 

One of the main tourist attractions of the town is the Rothesay Castle. It dates back to the early 13th century. Built by the influential Stewart family, this ruined castle was once a royal residence. 

Next, take a local bus to visit the magnificent Mount Stuart, a neo-gothic mansion. This 19th-century country house was designed by Scottish architect Sir Robert Rowand Anderson. Also, it is the ancestral home of the Marquesses of Bute. Take a tour of the house to explore the grand interior of Mount Stuart. Later, take a walk around the extensive gardens.

Before catching a return ferry, climb the Canada Hill viewpoint at Rothesay for a spectacular view of the town and the bay.

How to Reach Bute : From Glasgow, catch a train to Wemyss Bay. Next, hop on a ferry to Rothesay, which takes only 35 minutes.

12. Largs and Great Cumbrae

Leave behind the hustle and bustle of Glasgow to enjoy a relaxing day trip in nature. Largs is a beautiful seaside town on the west coast of Scotland. Start your adventure with a walk along the lovely promenade. Lined with several restaurants, ice-cream shops and amusement centres, it is a vibrant place.

To learn the Viking heritage of Largs, visit Viking!, an interactive experience. Also, you can participate in the Largs Viking Festival held every year in early September.

Located on the outskirts of Largs, Kelburn Castle is one of the most unusual castles in Scotland. The exterior of this 13th-century castle is painted in bright and bold designs by Brazilian graffiti artists.

The Isle of Cumbrae is just a short ferry ride from Largs. Millport is the main town of the island and boasts stunning coastal views. Watch out for the Crocodile Rock, a beloved Cumbrae landmark. This island has a range of walking, cycling and kayaking opportunities.

How to Reach : Trains from Glasgow Central Station take about an hour to reach Largs. From Largs, the ferry crossing to Cumbrae takes only ten minutes.

13. Falkland & Culross

For all Outlander fans visiting Glasgow, this day trip is a must. You will get to explore two famous Outlander filming locations in Scotland. 

Culross is one of the prettiest historic villages in Scotland . Take a wander along the winding cobbled streets of this beautifully preserved village. Take a tour of the Culross Palace to learn its fascinating history. You will get a breathtaking view of the village and the Forth of Firth from the top of the Culross Palace garden.

Nestled at the foothill of the Lomond Hills in Fife, the pretty village of Falkland has appeared many times in the Outlander TV series. Falkland was shown as the city of Inverness , where Claire and Frank went for their second honeymoon.

One of the main tourist attractions of this village is the historic Falkland Palace & Garden. It served as the royal residence of several Scottish Kings and queens. Also, this royal dwelling was a firm favourite with the Mary, Queen of Scots. Also, you will find the world’s oldest surviving real tennis court inside the palace.

How to Reach : Although there is public transport available for both places, they are quite time-consuming. So, a car is preferable for this particular day trip. From Glasgow, it takes only an hour to drive to Falkland.

Day trips over Two hours from Glasgow

14. glen coe and fort william.

A road trip to Fort William via Glen Coe takes around two and a half hours from Glasgow. So, it’s a tempting day trip option to explore one of the most beautiful corners of Scotland.

Glen Coe is world-famous for its dramatic scenery, wild and rugged landscape, diverse wildlife and tragic past. There are many hiking trails around. You can stop at various viewpoints to take in the breathtaking vistas. Also, this area appeared in several blockbuster movies, like Harry Potter, Braveheart and Skyfall.

Known as the outdoor capital of Scotland, Fort William is the home of the highest mountain in Britain, Ben Nevis. There are a variety of things to do in Fort William .

Also, Fort William sits on the famous West Highland Line. It is renowned for being one of the most scenic train journeys in the world. The train line starts from Glasgow Queen Street station and continues to Mallaig through the Harry Potter famed Glenfinnan Viaduct.

Instead of a day trip, we recommend spending the night in Fort William and extending your trip to the magical Isle of Skye via a ferry from Mallaig, about 40 miles from Fort William.

15. Loch Ness

Home of the notorious Loch Ness monster, Loch Ness is undoubtedly one of the most famous tourist attractions in Scotland.

If you are short on time, a day trip to Loch Ness from Glasgow may not be the craziest idea. Although, we would recommend using a car instead of public transport to maximise your time here.

Located on the bank of Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle is one of the most-visited castles in Scotland . Take a tour of the castle to discover the fascinating past of this historic fortress. Also, admire a stunning view over Loch Ness from here.

Take a boat tour to enjoy the natural beauty of the lake and the surrounding landscapes. Who knows, you might even spot Nessie. That would surely make a very memorable day trip.

Before driving back to Glasgow, stroll around the tiny village of Fort Augustus. If you have more time, spend the night in Inverness , known as the capital of the Highlands.

Map of the Day Trips from Glasgow

Here is a map of all the amazing places mentioned in this article. Click on the link to save the Google Map on your phone, which you can use later. It also works when you are offline.

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13 Brilliant Day Trips From Glasgow For A Dreamy Escape

Walk the fells, chase waterfalls and learn about the history of Scotland — all on a day trip from Glasgow!

Glasgow is a beautiful city but sometimes it’s nice to escape the crowds of people and see the beautiful spots on Glasgow’s doorstep. You don’t have to drive for long to have a nice day out near the city and these day trips prove it.

1. Campsie Fells

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Less than a 40 minutes drive from central Glasgow, you can escape to the beautiful hills of Campsie Fells . Walk for miles amidst this picturesque landscape and see something different at every turn, including the spooky Lennox Castle Hospital , an abandoned mental hospital. Many visitors also choose to stop in at the Glengoyne Distillery and sample some delicious whisky on one of their distillery tours.

The village of Campsie Glen sits nestled between the fells and there you can visit the Shrine of Schoenstatt , which is fabled to be “a connecting point between Heaven and earth” . The village is full of old buildings and there are woodlands surrounding it that are perfect for a peaceful walk.

2. Finnech Glen

You should definitely visit Finnech Glen , also known as Devil’s Pulpit , but exercise caution when descending the slippery stairs, named Jacob’s Ladder or the Devil’s Steps . Once you reach the bottom, you can walk through a stream with an amazing ruby red base. Its colour comes from the red sandstone that has been worn away by the water to form the glen. You’ll find this breathtaking spot just 30 minutes north of Glasgow by car.

3. Isle of Arran

The Isle of Arran is an absolute gem . People go on their holidays here so, if you’re going for the day, there are loads of options for things to do. First things first — there’s a whisky distillery and a cheese producer here, both of which you can visit. Then you can relax on the beautiful Brodick Bay , visit the Isle of Arran Heritage Museum , or spend some time exploring Brodick Castle .

4. Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park

The impressive Loch Lomond runs through the beautiful Trossochs National Park , which is speckled with beautiful hills and waterfalls to explore. It would be near impossible to explore the whole area in a day but you can take a cruise boat along the loch to get a sense of the place.

There are loads of tiny islands on the loch. Visit Inchcailloch where you can sit in seclusion with the wildlife and the loch surrounding you. Inchacailloch means ‘island of the old or cowled woman’ and it’s supposedly where St. Kentigerna , an Irish missionary, lived and died.

If you’re after more of a walk , you can venture out around Loch Lomond’s shores to find Rob Roy’s Cave , and if you’re in for a bit more of a challenge, you can climb Ben Lomond and back. Ben Lomond takes between four and five hours depending on your fitness level, so it’s the perfect day trip.

5. Loup of Fintry

Loup of Fintry is a stunning waterfall , only a 45 minute drive from Glasgow. You can bring a picnic and sit on the grass, whilst listening to the roar of the water rushing over the rocks. It’s the ideal serene mini getaway we’ve all ben hoping for.

6. Stirling

Stirling Castle might just be one of the most beautiful day trips in Scotland. Perched atop a volcanic hill, just 40 minutes outside of Glasgow, there are plenty of things to see and do within the castle walls. The castle offers an opportunity to learn about the history of Scottish royalty and the military history of Scotland. The onsite Unicorn Cafe also serves refreshments. You don’t have to book in advance but if you’ve travelled from Glasgow then it’s advisable to do so. You can buy tickets in advance online and adult tickets are £16.50 .

If you’re in Falkirk then you simply have to see The Kelpies . These huge steel sculptures of two horse’s heads tower 30 metres above the ground, and they represent the murderous shape-shifting mythical creatures that would appear to humans in the shape of a horse. Once the human rode it, the victims would be then drowned by these beings. As you’re exploring this iconic monument, there’s also a gift shop and some cafes, so you can sit and relax on your day out.

What is more, make your wee day out into a fun cycling adventure to the Falkirk Wheel, which is simply fascinating. It lifts boats that sit on tons of water into the air and transports them, providing a terrific transport route to Glasgow. You can also find our guide to local cycling routes for day trips here .

8. Arrochar, Argyll and Bute

On top of making the UK’s Best Hidden Gems list last year, the quaint village of Arrochar is a place for stunning vistas, challenging walks and memorable day trips. With Ben Lomond gracing the village on the one side, and the rocky summit of The Cobbler within the Arrochar Alps on the other, Arrochar sits at the banks of the lakes making it the perfect place to relax after a long day of adventuring.

If you want to actually brave The Cobbler , the path is around 11km and should take four to six hours . Make a start on the opposite side of the road of the Succoth car park and follow the (barely marked) red way markers. The path could prove more difficult at times to less experienced hikers, and once you reached the summit (unless you’re a rock climber), come back down the same way you came up.

9. The Secret Scottish Pyramid

That’s right, Scotland has a pyramid, and it has nothing to do with Ancient Egypt. Instead, it has a regal history that dates back to Queen Victoria. The Secret Scottish Pyramid , also known as Prince Albert’s Cairn, sits in the cosy woodland of Cairngorms National Park in the North East of Scotland, not too far from the Royal Balmoral Estate . Located around a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Glasgow, the woodland walk on the Balmoral Estate offers one of the more unique day trips , with views of the Balmoral Castle and a stunning view over the national park once you reach Prince Albert’s Cairn. As usual for Scottish terrain, bring your hiking boots as there might be muddy patches along the way.

10. Dunkeld

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Located around an hour and 15 minutes from Glasgow, Dunkeld was also named the best place to live in Scotland by The Sunday Times in 2023, so it’s not just one of the best day trips . Dunkeld is located in Perthshire , around one hour and 15 minutes drive from Glasgow. The village is a favourite for pretty village enthusiasts and boasts refreshing nature walks , calming scenery and a charismatic, friendly aura within the village. There are plenty of local businesses to check out, such as The Great British Bake-Off star Flora Shedden’s Aran Bakery , The Taybank and The Birnam Arts Institute .

11. The Japanese Garden at Cowden

What if we told you you could travel to the Far East by just driving an hour from the city? Well, when it comes to day trips near Glasgow , feeling like you left the country without going far offers a special allure. The Japanese Garden at Cowden is also named “Sha Raku En”, meaning “a place of pleasure and delight”, and is located just 50 minutes from Glasgow. Founded by Ella Christie , the spot aims to merge the two cultures, bringing a welcome union of Japanese and Scottish flairs. While guests have to pay £8.50 to get into the garden, there is also a tearoom to unwind and enjoy the day.

12. North Berwick

North Berwick is a quaint little seaside town on the East Coast two hours from Glasgow, centring around two beaches . Its picturesque location offers plenty of walking opportunities, as well as independent businesses and cute wee pubs worthy of checking out. What is more, North Berwick was named the best place to live in the UK by The Sunday Times in 2024, recognising its appeal and quality of life.

13. Dollar Glen

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Dollar Glen is an idyllic place for an impressive escape, with deep gorges, calming burns and castle ruins. A day out into woodland is located east of Stirling, below the Ochil Hills . Uncover Castle Campbell, as well as the Burns of Care and Sorrow with tumbling waterfalls and an array of wildlife . On one of the more unique day trips 55 minutes from Glasgow, visitors can also spot long-eared bats and spotted woodpeckers, with the area also known as a Site of Special Scientific Interest .

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The 8 best day trips from Glasgow for lochs, islands, and highlands

Feb 6, 2022 • 5 min read

From nearby beauty spots to scenic coastal escapes, here are the best day trips from Glasgow Digital Vision / Getty Images

With  Glasgow’s renowned nightlife and music scene, its ever-growing culinary reputation, expansive parks and revered museums, you can have a ball without ever venturing outside the city limits. But thanks to its geographical position, Glasgow is the perfect base from which to enjoy Scotland’s raw nature and dramatic scenery.

To the north, south, east or west, here are eight of the best day-trip destinations from Glasgow.

See renowned L och Lomond and the charming village of Luss

One of the country’s most treasured spots, Loch Lomond and its surrounds offer beauty by the beach, on the water, and way up high. Whether you choose to go for a stroll on the shore at charming Luss village, paddle a kayak to one of the loch’s many islands from lush Balmaha , or conquer your first Munro in 974m (3195ft)   Ben Lomond , this national park offers postcard-perfect sights from almost every angle.

How to get to there from Glasgow  

It's best to take the car; it’s a 35-minute drive from Glasgow. Public transport is available, with a train station at Balloch on the loch’s southern edge.

Get a dose of Scottish history at Stirling Castle

Often overlooked for its more widely-known neighbor in Scotland’s capital, Stirling Castle is just as grand, if not more so, than its Edinburgh counterpart. Perched atop a volcanic rock, the castle is as dramatic as it is historic. Overlooking the famous battlegrounds of Bannockburn and Stirling Bridge, Stirling Castle has played vital roles in the stories of William Wallace, Mary Queen of Scots, Bonnie Prince Charlie and Robert the Bruce.

How to get to there from Glasgow

Stirling is just a 31-minute train ride from Queen Street station, or a 40-minute drive from Glasgow city center.

Enjoy the best of Scotland's raw nature in the Perthshire Highlands

There are few better places to witness Scotland’s spectacular countryside than in Pitlochry and the surrounding Perthshire Highlands . Queen’s View offers the perfect platform from which to make the most of the area’s raw nature, with the Schiehallion mountain a beautiful backdrop to the awesome sight of Loch Tummel below. The similarly stunning Faskally Wood breeds an atmosphere of adventure, while Blair Athol and Edradour distilleries  — the latter of which is the smallest in Scotland — is where visitors warm up with a wee dram of Scotland’s national drink.

Pitlochry and the surrounding countryside is best explored by car, with the town a 1 hour 40 minute drive from Glasgow.

Taste spectacular seafood in Oban

The gateway to the idyllic Hebridean Islands , this quaint harbor town offers picturesque views across the bay to Kerrera and Mull from the excellent vantage point at McCaig’s Tower , the intriguing and unmissable structure modeled on Rome’s Colosseum. For fans of lobster, mussels, and scallops, the call of award-winning seafood would be worth the trip alone. On your drive from Glasgow, consider stops by Castle Stalker (as featured in the 1975 film  Monty Python and the Holy Grail ) and the similarly impressive Kilchurn Castle on the often unheralded Loch Awe.

While there are trains from Glasgow to Oban, taking a car is quicker (2.5 hours) and allows you to visit many of fantastic sights on the way.

Spend a day on the scenic Isle of Arran

Lovingly described as "Scotland in miniature", for years Arran has proved a west coast sanctuary for Glaswegians keen to escape the city. For the adventurous, a climb up Goat Fell (the origin of the name still remains unclear) is a must, while a more relaxing outing may have you wind down at the excellent whisky distillery . A trip to King’s Cave  (of Robert the Bruce fame) and Brodick Castle will give a great insight into the island’s vast history.

Take the train from Glasgow Central station to Ardrossan Harbour (approx 45 minutes), from where ferries to Brodick (55 minutes) run at least five times daily.

Tour the sights of Edinburgh, Glasgow's fierce rival

Although Glaswegians steadfastly refute suggestions Edinburgh is the better city, they won’t begrudge visitors taking a trip to the capital to admire its awe-inspiring sights. The contrasts between these two neighbors are stark in terms of looks, feel and the locals. A day in Edinburgh would be best enjoyed exploring the castle , trekking up to Arthur’s Seat , and ambling down the Royal Mile in the Old Town . You’ll love it: just don’t harp on about it too much when you return to Glasgow.

Trains runs as often as every 15 minutes from Queen Street Station to Edinburgh Waverley and Haymarket, taking between 45 minutes and 1 hour 15 minutes.

Learn about Scotland's great poet, Robert Burns, on the Ayrshire coast

The birthplace of Auld Lang Syne, the Scots song sung around the world every New Year’s Eve, Ayrshire is the home of its creator and Scotland’s national poet, Robert Burns. Immerse yourself in the words and stories of the bard at the Burns Birthplace Museum and Burns Cottage . Drive a little further down the coast and stop by regal Culzean Castle and take in nearby views of iconic island Ailsa Craig.

The Burns Museum can be reached by car in 45 minutes from Glasgow. Public transport options are available, involving taking the train and a local bus.

Cycle around the island of Great Cumbrae

Just a 10-minute ferry ride from Largs, the population of this small west coast island balloons when summer arrives, as families descend upon Great Cumbrae to experience its old-world holiday feel. A leisurely 10-mile trip on two wheels around the "island of 1000 bicycles" is almost mandatory, as is a stroll along the promenade with a classic Scottish fish supper. Great Cumbrae is also the home of Britain’s smallest cathedral .

Largs, where the ferry departs from the mainland, is easily accessible by train (1 hour) from Glasgow Central station. Ferries run approximately every half-hour, more frequently in summertime. 

You might also like: The 15 best things to do in Glasgow for fun (no kilt required)    27 things you should know before visiting Edinburgh: Why does it smell? Can I use English money? And more    The best things to do in Scotland from festivals to puffins and peaks   

This article was first published Nov 8, 2019 and updated Feb 6, 2022.

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16 Top-Rated Day Trips from Glasgow

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Nov 26, 2021 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The city of Glasgow sits in an enviable position. Not only is it within easy reach of many of Scotland's most popular tourist attractions , there are also no end of fun things to do within an easy day trip of the city. And best of all, many of them are easily accessible via public transport, as Glasgow and its surrounds boasts a superb transportation network.

From here, great places to visit include the Scottish Highlands, Robbie Burns country along the Ayrshire coast, Aran Island, as well as Oban. And, of course, famous Loch Ness is within reach, although you may want to make an overnight stay of it (it's doable, but is a three-hour drive away).

Beautiful Loch Lomond is even closer and is popular for outdoor enthusiasts for its hiking and biking adventures. Stirling Castle, along with a number of equally attractive castles and manor houses, is also within easy reach of Glasgow.

Whatever season you visit, if you do ever tire of Glasgow's lively cultural and music scene - or simply want to experience a different side of Scotland - there are plenty of options for spending time outside the city.

Plan your adventures with this list of the best day trips from Glasgow, Scotland.

1. Loch Ness and the Scottish Highlands

2. loch lomond and the west highlands, 3. stirling and stirling castle, 4. isle of arran: scotland in miniature, 5. outlander day tour from glasgow, 6. benmore botanic garden, 7. newark castle, 8. the ayrshire coast: robbie burns country, 9. dumbarton castle, 10. oban and the west highlands, 11. the hill house, helensburgh, 12. the forth and clyde canal and the falkirk wheel, 13. summerlee museum of scottish industrial life, 14. paisley abbey and the thomas coats memorial church, 15. gourock: granny kempock's stone, 16. greenock, map of day trips from glasgow.

What trip to Scotland would be complete without visiting Loch Ness , home of the fabled sea serpent, Nessie? While it's a lengthy three-hour drive from Glasgow , it should certainly rank near the top of your Glasgow day trips list.

This spectacularly beautiful 23-mile-long and extremely deep body of water fills the geological fissure known as the Great Glen , whose steep green walls make it one of Scotland's loveliest sights. Hour-long boat trips from Fort Augustus or Inverness , or scenic drives along the loch's shore reveal stunning vistas of the rocky peaks of the Scottish Highlands.

Tours to Great Glen, such as the 12-hour Loch Ness, Glencoe & the Highlands Small Group Day Trip from Glasgow , stop in the remote and atmospheric Glencoe , scene of the historic massacre of the MacDonald clan in 1692. The entire region is filled with breathtaking scenery of high mountains, rocky ridges, fast-running rivers, and tumbling waterfalls.

"Yon bonnie banks and yon bonnie braes" of Scotland's largest freshwater loch are only half an hour from Glasgow, at the southern end of Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park . In fact, so pretty are the lochs and mountains here that they've earned the park the nickname "The Highlands in Miniature."

In addition to the haunting beauty and romantic vistas that this traditional Scottish song speaks of, Loch Lomond is a center for outdoor adventures. Boaters and other water sports enthusiasts are drawn here, as are golfers, who head for the Carrick Golf Course at Cameron House . Here, you'll find one of Scotland's finest championship-standard golf courses, boasting incredible views of Ben Lomond across the waters of the loch.

Hiking and bicycle trails abound throughout the park, and Loch Lomond cruises depart from Balloch at the southern end of the lake. Balloch is also where you'll find the Loch Lomond Shores shopping area, as well as the SEA LIFE Aquarium, one of the region's top family attractions.

Although you can easily reach the loch by train, Loch Lomond is often part of tours of the West Highlands from Glasgow. The full-day guided West Highland Lochs, Glencoe and Castles Small Group Day Trip from Glasgow includes attractions such as Kilchurn Castle, the town of Inveraray, and Castle Stalker on Loch Laich.

Official site: www.lochlomond-trossachs.org/

• Read More: Top Attractions & Things to Do around Loch Lomond

Just 30 minutes from Glasgow by car or direct train, the town of Stirling is famous as the location of the Battle of Bannockburn . It was here in 1314 that Robert the Bruce defeated the English invaders. It was also where legendary William Wallace beat the English at the Battle of Stirling Bridge, a victory for Scottish independence. Both these important battles are commemorated at the excellent Bannockburn Heritage Centre .

Between Stirling and the quaint village of Bridge of Allan stands the majestic Wallace Monument, a spectacular 246-step tower with sweeping views of the area, as well as artifacts that belonged to Wallace.

The spectacular 12th-century Stirling Castle, built atop a 76-meter-high volcanic crag, has played an important role throughout Scotland's rich history and is open to visitors. You can visit Stirling and the castle and also enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Trossachs on the Loch Lomond and Stirling Castle Tour from Glasgow .

Address: Castle Wynd, Stirling, Scotland

Official site: www.stirlingcastle.scot

The lovely Isle of Arran is only 267 square kilometers in size but contains examples of just about everything that makes Scotland one of the world's most popular tourist destinations. It's for this reason that the island has earned the nickname, "Scotland in Miniature."

Just a one-hour ferry ride from Ardrossan, which itself is an easy train trip from Glasgow, Arran is marked by magnificent mountains, moorland, sandy beaches, an abundance of wildlife, castles, and fishing harbors. It's also a popular golf destination, and offers three great courses.

Arran is also a walker's paradise, and buses run regularly around the island from the ferry terminal at Brodick to its various tourist attractions. Although the best places to visit on Arran – including Brodick Castle and Goat Fell mountain (873 meters) – can be seen in a day (including the ferry ride), you'll want to spend at least a few days exploring this wonderful part of Scotland.

Fans of the hit TV series, Outlander , will definitely be interested in adding a great tour of the series' film locations to their Glasgow travel itinerary. The popular Outlander day tour from Glasgow is an immersive eight-hour adventure departing from central Glasgow that features stops in a number of spots fans will instantly recognize.

For many, a highlight of the tour is the chance to visit the picturesque village of Culross, which stood in for the fictional Crainesmuir. It's the last stop of the tour, and you'll have plenty of time to explore the old village square, which dates from the 1600s, as well as a historic home dating from the same period.

The attractive Doune Castle is another notable location you'll visit. This remarkably well-preserved medieval fortress starred as Castle Leoch in Outlander, and you'll have plenty of time to explore it armed with a great audio-guide (provided).

The village of Falkland is also on the itinerary, where you'll have a chance to grab a bite of lunch and explore at your leisure. Also included are stops at Blackness Castle and Midhope Castle. Inclusions with this tour are transportation and the services of a professional guide.

Benmore Botanic Garden, set amidst spectacularly rugged mountain scenery north of Glasgow at the southern end of Loch Eck, is part of Edinburgh's Royal Botanic Garden . The avenue of giant Californian redwoods planted in 1863 line the long driveway to the property, where you'll be rewarded with a chance to wander around more than 300 different species of rhododendron and azaleas.

Other highlights include Puck's Hut, a wooden memorial to Isaac Bayley Balfour who had the idea to create the gardens, and a bronze statue dating from 1875, A Boy with Two Dolphins , donated by the owner of adjacent Benmore House, now an outdoor learning center.

Nearby Argyll Forest Park is also well worth checking out. Established in 1935, it was the first of its kind in Britain and boasts an impressive 186 mile network of footpaths.

Location: 4 Uig, Benmore, Dunoon, Scotland

Official site: www.rbge.org.uk/visit/benmore-botanic-garden/

In the industrial town of Port Glasgow, just 25 miles west of Glasgow's city center, stands the 15th-century Newark Castle. This attractive mansion, with its gatehouse and tower, was once the seat of the (sometimes murderous) Maxwell family.

Although the Tower House rooms are not open to visitors, you can see the building's lovely Jacobean exterior and the fascinating "below stairs" rooms. Here, interesting exhibits relate to the working conditions and lives of the family's staff.

Address: Castle Rd, Port Glasgow, Scotland

Official site: www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/newark-castle/

Fans of the poetry and songs of Robbie Burns, Scotland's beloved national poet, will want to explore the places he lived and the countryside he immortalized. At the same time, you'll see one of the most beautiful coastal regions of Scotland.

Follow the Burns Heritage Trail from the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum in Alloway, on the outskirts of Ayr, where you'll see the beautifully preserved thatched house where the poet was born and lived as a child.

After visiting the 16th-century Auld Kirk where his father is buried, this circular tour heads south to Dumfries and the Robert Burns House, where the poet lived for the four years before he died here in 1796, at age 36. The house is now a museum and gives a good portrait of his life. His grave is in the nearby St. Michael's Churchyard.

Another highlight of the Ayrshire coast is Culzean Castle and Country Park , with woodland trails and landscaped gardens that include a Victorian Walled Garden. You can visit the Burns sites and Culzean Castle on the Ayrshire Coast Day Trip from Glasgow: Robert Burns Country and Culzean Country Park tour, with a guide who will tell more about Burns and Culzean castle, including its connections with President Eisenhower at the end of World War II.

Dumbarton Castle perches dramatically on a basalt rock on the north bank of the Clyde facing Port Glasgow. This strategically important stronghold was started in the 6th century and was central to the ancient kingdom of Strathclyde's rule over the surrounding area until 1018. Only the dungeon and 12th-century gateway remain of this medieval edifice where Mary Stuart embarked for France at age five.

Other highlights of this star of the Game of Thrones series include the wonderful views, the Georgian artillery fortifications, and the Governor's House with its interesting artifacts from the castle.

Address: Castle Road, Dumbarton, Dunbartonshire, Scotland

Official site: www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/dumbarton-castle/

The pretty Victorian town of Oban, the seafood capital of Scotland , sits on the coast and is the main port for the ferries that connect southern Scotland to Mull, Skye, and the Hebrides islands.

For a view that encompasses the town and harbor and reaches all the way to the Isle of Mull on clear days, climb to the top of McCaig's Tower . This impressive Victorian monument was built to resemble the Colosseum in Rome .

The route to Oban from Glasgow passes through some of Scotland's most scenic countryside, a land of mountains, moors, lochs, and castles. On the Oban and the West Highlands Day Trip from Glasgow , you'll ride through this scenic land, along the shores of Loch Fyne, Loch Awe, and Loch Lomond , where you'll stop in the village of Luss.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Oban

Lovers of Art Nouveau styling won't be disappointed by a visit to Hill House in Helensburgh. Designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh after plans were drawn up for his Art Lover's House , Hill House was built in 1904 overlooking the Firth of Clyde.

Surrounded by a delightful garden, the house is somewhat reminiscent of Scottish fortified manor houses, while the figural elements, rounded edges, oriel windows, and small chimney stacks bear all the hallmarks of the gifted designer.

The home is currently the subject of an ambitious renovation project that has resulted in it being encased in a large steel frame. Called the " Hill House Box ," this impressive structure - anticipated to be in place for up to 15 years - is something of an architectural wonder in itself. Built to keep the weather out and allowing the house's exterior walls to dry, guests can actually climb the frame to enjoy never before seen views of the structure.

Meanwhile, the interior remains open to visitors. In the wide hall, the dark wooden panels contrast with the light wallpaper, supplemented with abstract patterns and delicate pastel shades. Art Nouveau patterns in pink and light green soften the effect of the walls, windows, and lamps.

The bedroom on the first floor above the lounge is regarded as the most successful of Mackintosh's "White Rooms." Mackintosh also designed the furniture, and his wife, Margaret Macdonald, designed and made many of the textiles and a stunning fireplace panel.

Address: Upper Colquhoun Street, Helensburgh, Greater Glasgow and Clyde Valley, Scotland

Official site: www.nts.org.uk/property/the-hill-house/

The Forth and Clyde Canal, built in 1790, winds its way through the Strathkelvin District to the north of Glasgow. The fully restored 35-mile waterway was an important link for seagoing vessels between the Firths of Clyde and Forth, joining the River Clyde at Bowling and the River Forth at Grangemouth. Today, you can take a very pleasant outing from Kirkintilloch aboard one of the vessels operated by the Forth and Clyde Canal Society.

Be sure to allow time to explore the spectacular Falkirk Wheel at the eastern end of the canal. Capable of carrying up to eight boats, this unique piece of modern engineering – part sculpture, part boatlift – connects the Forth and Clyde Canal with the Union Canal near the important industrial town of Falkirk.

Visitors can experience the hour-long journey aboard special boats and learn more about its operation at the visitor center. Behind-the-scenes tours of this engineering marvel are also available.

Address: Lime Road, Falkirk, Scotland

Official site: www.scottishcanals.co.uk/falkirk-wheel/

The Summerlee Museum of Scottish Industrial Life is based around the 20-acre site of 19th-century Summerlee Iron Works. Opened in 1836 and once one of the region's biggest employers, today this sightseeing trip is fun for kids as well as adults. Highlights include Scotland's only still-operating vintage tramway, a recreated mine, workers' cottages, and various Victorian steam engines. Guided tours of the abandoned mines are also available, and admission is free.

Address: Heritage Way, Coatbridge, Scotland

Some surviving parts of Paisley Abbey date from its original construction in 1163. Highlights of a visit include the choir stalls and a walk up 197 steps to the Tower.

Another Paisley landmark is the ornate Thomas Coats Memorial Church. Funded by one of Scotland's leading textile manufacturers and completed in 1894, its intricate stonework was the product of numerous apprentice stonemasons.

While in the area, pay a visit to Paisley Museum and Art Gallery , with its interesting displays relating to the development of the textile industry and the story of the distinctive "drop motif" on the world-famous Paisley pattern. Exhibits include the old looms on which the best-selling designs were produced, as well as original woven and embroidered shawls from Kashmir, the inspiration for the Scottish production.

Address: Abbey Close, Paisley, Renfrewshire, Scotland

Official site: www.paisleyabbey.org.uk

By the coast at Gourock, some 28 miles west of Glasgow, stands an interesting six-foot-tall slate monolith reputed to have been a meeting place for Druids. It's known as Granny Kempock's Stone. Fishermen would make small offerings in return for fine weather and good catches, and it's still customary for local newlyweds to circle the stone to bring good luck to their marriage.

The views across the Clyde Estuary toward the southwest Highlands make the journey to this seaside town worth the effort. The Gourock Highland Games are held here in May.

Greenock is another former industrial center near Glasgow that's worth a visit (in fact, you'll pass through it on your way to Gouruck, above). It's an easy hour-long train ride from Glasgow Central Station.

Greenock is famous as the birthplace of engineer James Watt, who made the Clyde navigable. the great engineer's life is celebrated here in the Watt Institution, a former library and now official archives dedicated to his life and work. Greenock is also famous for being the final resting place of "Highland Mary," immortalized by Robbie Burns.

Other highlights of a visit include McLean Museum & Art Gallery, and the interesting Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Museum and Heritage Centre with its collection of rare vehicles. If you've time and energy, make the 20-minute climb up Lyle Hill for its spectacular views over the Clyde and Greenock's wonderful skyline.

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Scotland Vacation Ideas : Home to Edinburgh Castle , Scotland's most visited tourist attraction, the romantic city of Edinburgh is a must-visit for any traveler to this beautiful country. The Highland city of Inverness is also worth including on your Scotland travel itinerary for its attractive riverside setting, and also serves as a great jumping-off point for another top Scottish destination: Loch Ness .

More on Scotland

The 10 Best Day Trips From Glasgow

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Many visitors to Scotland opt to make Glasgow their home base, and while the vibrant Scottish city has a lot to see and do, there are also numerous day trips you can take, both to other urban centers or to nature-filled areas like the Trossachs. Glasgow has solid public transportation, with several train and bus stations in the city, so it's possible to explore the surrounding areas without a car (although a rental car can make things easier). Whether you want to head to the shores of Loch Lomond or to the mountains of Glencoe, there's a day trip for every type of traveler.

Loch Lomond: Hikes, Boating, and More

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Cruise the scenic waters of Loch Lomond as part of a great day trip from Glasgow. The massive loch, located north of Glasgow, offers opportunities for boat cruises, fishing, walking, and cycling while the town of Balloch has Loch Lomond Shores: a center filled with restaurants, activities, and an aquarium. There's a lot to see and do, but you can squeeze a lot into a day, especially if you have a rental car. It's also very family-friendly, with nearby walks and hikes for travelers of all abilities and ages.

Getting There: Visitors can opt to drive (it takes about 25 minutes from Glasgow to the southern edge of Loch Lomond) or take a train from Glasgow Queen Street to Balloch, which is walking distance from the loch's shore. Trains run every 30 minutes.

Travel Tip: Don't miss a loch cruise, which departs from Balloch via Sweeney's Cruise Co . The cruises sail year-round, but times can vary, so consider booking tickets online in advance.

Stirling Castle: A Glimpse Into the Past

TripSavvy / Jess Macdonald

Located in Stirling, Stirling Castle is one of the most important castles in Scotland as it was the childhood home of Mary Queen of Scots. Today visitors can tour the castle rooms, which feature exhibitions on Scotland’s Renaissance kings and queens, and enjoy guided tours of the indoor and outdoor areas. There's also a cafe, gift shops, and a selection of special events. Make a day of your visit by also exploring Stirling's Old Town and other popular attractions like Doune Castle and the Old Bridge, as well as nearby towns like Bridge of Allan and Dunblane.

Getting There: Take a train from Glasgow to Stirling Station, and then arrive at the castle by taxi or bus. Parking can be tricky at the castle as it gets full during busy periods, so consider opting for public transportation instead. Look for the Stirling Land Train at the train station to access the castle in historic style.

Travel Tip: The castle is open throughout the year, but the opening hours change based on the season. Check online when planning your visit as the last entry time can be relatively early during the winter.

Inveraray: A Classic Scottish Town

John Lawson, Belhaven / Getty Images

Located on the edge of Loch Fyne, Inveraray is a traditional Scottish town with a castle and a nice town center. Inveraray Castle , the current home of the Dukes of Argyll, welcomes visitors to its rooms and expansive grounds and is open between April and October. Other attractions include Inveraray Jail, Inveraray Bell Tower, and Crarae Garden Argyll. There are also several nice local walks, including Dun Na Cuaiche Woodland Walk, which offers great views of the loch.

Getting There: Take a bus from Glasgow Buchanan Bus Stop via Luss Village to Inveraray (which takes about two hours) or elect to drive yourself. The drive can be very scenic as it passes by Loch Lomond, so give yourself enough time to make stops and see everything along the route.

Travel Tip: Those with extra time should include a visit to the nearby Auchindrain Township Open Air Museum on their itinerary. The museum features a preserved Scottish Highland farm township and is about a 10-minute drive from Inveraray.

Isle of Arran: Hiking, Golfing, and Whisky

Sam Spicer / Getty Images 

Take a journey west to the Isle of Arran, the largest island in the Firth of Clyde. It's a beautiful destination, with rural trails and towns, as well as the Isle of Arran Distillery, where Scotch whisky is made. Many visitors come for outdoor activities like hiking, boating, and mountain biking, but it's also a great spot for food lovers. Don't miss Brodick Castle and Country Gardens , the Machrie Moor Stone Circles, and Arran Cheese Shop .

Getting There: Your best option is to drive to the Isle of Arran, but intrepid travelers can also take a train from Glasgow to Ardrossan Harbour, which connects with a ferry that reaches Brodick Isle of Arran Ferry Terminal (cars also travel over on the ferry). From there, travelers can either trek into town on foot or hail a taxi.

Travel Tip: Golfers will find a lot of options on the Isle of Arran, from the Brodick Golf Club to Shiskine Golf & Tennis Club, which overlooks the Mull of Kintyre.

Largs: A Resort Town

Jim McDowall/  Getty Images

Head an hour west from Glasgow to discover Largs, a seaside resort town on the Firth of Clyde. The town boasts a pier, a Victorian promenade, and a rocky beach, making it especially popular during the summer. It's also home to the annual Largs Viking Festival. Don't miss the Kelburn Castle & Estate , the Largs Museum, and, of course, all the ice cream shops along the promenade. Look for the walking trails and picnic area near Greeto Falls when visiting during nice weather.

Getting There: Trains are available hourly via ScotRail from Glasgow Central, or you can drive. The drive is about 32 miles and will take up to an hour depending on traffic.

Travel Tip: From Largs, take a ferry to the island of Cumbrae. Bikes are available for rent in Millport, just off the ferry, and it's fun to explore the scenic island before heading back to Glasgow.

Loch Ness: Home of the Mysterious Monster

Most travelers put Loch Ness high on their Scotland bucket list and for good reason. The northern loch is incredibly beautiful, with historic sites and picturesque walks along the shore, as well as the possibility of spotting Nessie herself. While Loch Ness isn't close to Glasgow, savvy visitors can make a day trip of the loch by leaving early and staying late. Don't miss the Loch Ness Centre & Exhibition , the ruins of Urquhart Castle , and the Clansman Centre, which showcases traditional Scottish culture.

Getting There: Hop a train from Glasgow Queen Street to Inverness, and then take a bus to Bunloit, located on Loch Ness. Alternatively, visitors can drive from Glasgow to Loch Ness, which takes between 3.5 and 4 hours. Some local travel companies also offer day tours from Glasgow with stops in the Highlands and Loch Ness.

Travel Tip: Loch Ness is quite vast, with lots of towns and sites along its shores. If you have limited time, pick one area to explore, focusing either on the western shore where you can find Urquhart Castle or the southern town of Fort Augustus.

Glencoe: Gateway to the Highlands

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Glencoe , part of the Scottish Highlands , is a highlight of many visitors' trips to Scotland. It's often treated as its own destination, but it's a doable day trip from Glasgow, especially if you just want a taste of the picturesque scenery and the nearby town of Fort William. It's best for those who want to explore the outdoors by hiking or biking, or even kayaking on Loch Leven. In the winter, skiing and snowboarding is available at Glencoe Mountain resort.

Getting There: Glencoe is easily accessible from Glasgow by car (about two hours) or bus from Buchanan Bus Station. You can also take a train from Glasgow to Ardlui and then transfer to a bus to Glencoe, although that can take longer. Traveling by car is a good way to make stops to see the Trossachs and Loch Lomond along the way.

Travel Tip: There are numerous hikes in the area, but the walks around Glen Etive are especially nice. Bonus: the area was used in the James Bond film "Skyfall."

Kilmarnock: Experience Scottish City Life

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Kilmarnock is a sprawling city located on the River Irvine and it can be found a short drive south of Glasgow. Immerse yourself in 400-year-old history at Dean Castle Country Park or explore the exhibitions at The Dick Institute , the largest museum in Ayrshire. The vibrant city also has great restaurants and pubs, extensive shopping, and an infectious soccer culture (fans can take in a game at Rugby Park). Look for Bank Street, a cobbled road in the town center, and don't skip the Burns Monument Centre.

Getting There: Drive 40 minutes from Glasgow, or avoid traffic and parking by taking a direct train from Glasgow Central. Buses are also available from Buchanan Bus Station with Stagecoach West Scotland. The city itself is walkable, but there are also local buses and taxis to get around.

Travel Tip: For a wild time, plan your visit to Kilmarnock on the day of a Kilmarnock Football Club home match. Even if you can't get tickets to the game, the town's pubs will be packed and lively.

The Trossachs: A Respite For Nature Lovers

Ulrike Schmitt-Hartmann / Getty Images

Head north from Loch Lomond to experience the Trossachs, a forested area perfect for adventurous travelers who love the great outdoors. While Loch Lomond is often lumped together with the Trossachs, it's worth making a special day trip just for Queen Elizabeth Forest Park and the Great Trossachs Forest, where you'll find walks, longer hikes, and lots of wildlife viewing opportunities. There are also several scenic villages around the Trossachs, including Balquhidder and Aberfoyle.

Getting There: While visitors can take a series of trains to the Trossachs, it's best to have a car when exploring the area as many places can't be easily reached by public transportation. Be sure to bring a map or GPS as cell phone service can be spotty when driving through the more remote spots.

Travel Tip: "Outlander" fans should make a stop at Finnich Glen, a gorge with a memorable waterfall that stood in for the Liar's Spring on the TV series. The small parking lot can be found at the junction of A809 and B834 and then it's a short walk into the gorge.

Edinburgh: Castles, Museums, and More

It may seem obvious, but Edinburgh is a memorable day trip from Glasgow. The city is the center of Scotland's culture with sites like Edinburgh Castle , the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and the National Museum of Scotland . And, of course, no visit is complete without an ascent to Arthur's Seat, located in Holyrood Park. The city also has tons of restaurants, pubs, cocktail bars, and theaters, so try to extend your day trip into the evening if possible.

Getting There: Trains between the two cities are relatively inexpensive and quick, departing either from Glasgow Central or Glasgow Queen Street. Travelers on a tight budget can also opt to take a bus with one of several companies, including Scottish Citylink and National Express.

Travel Tip: Plan a visit around Edinburgh Festival Fringe , a three-week arts festival that takes place every summer. Travelers can score tickets to plays, comedy shows, and live music, or look for some of the free outdoor performances.

Weather in Scotland: Climate, Seasons and Average Monthly Temperature

The 10 Best Day Trips From Edinburgh

A Guide to Airports in Scotland

One Week in Scotland: The Perfect Itinerary

Fairy Pools in Scotland: The Complete Guide

The 12 Best Road Trips in Scotland

The Scottish Highlands: The Complete Guide

Melrose Abbey: The Complete Guide

12 Best Beaches in Scotland

Harry Potter Locations to Visit in England and Scotland

The 16 Most Beautiful Natural Features in the UK

The Top 15 Places to Visit in Scotland

Your Trip to Edinburgh: The Complete Guide

Top 20 Most Popular UK Cities for International Visitors

10 Questions to Ask Yourself Before You Plan Your UK Trip

Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park: The Complete Guide

13 Best Day Trips from Glasgow by Public Transport

Posted by Francesca Brooking | Scotland | 0

Looking for the best day trips from Glasgow by public transport? I can help! I’ve put together a list of my favourite day trips from the city which are accessible by public transport. 

All of these trips are reachable in three hours or less. 

Glasgow is a gateway to some of the most beautiful parts of Scotland’s west coast. The Isle of Arran is within easy reach if you’re looking for an island experience. Loch Lomond is under an hour away with its Viking villages and panoramic hillwalks. 

Glasgow is also well-placed to explore some of the central and eastern parts of Scotland, including the capital Edinburgh and the historic city of Stirling. 

These are all trips I’ve done without a car. In this guide, you won’t find train stations miles away from destinations or places only reachable by taxi, rideshare or over three hours to get to – some of my biggest pet peeves!

Instead, you’ll find realistic trips you can actually do in a day with practical information about public transport routes. They’re all under three hours from Glasgow so you can enjoy each place without rushing. 

Read on to find the best day trips from Glasgow by bus or train, tried and tested by me. 

Day trips from Glasgow at a glance 

• Isle of Arran
• Balloch 
• Balmaha 
• Pollok Country Park
• Stirling 
• Oban, Glencoe, Highland Lochs & Castles Tour
• Outlander Day Tour 

Map of the best day trips from Glasgow, Scotland 

1. edinburgh .

Highlights: Edinburgh Castle | Arthur’s Seat | Carlton Hill | Dean Village | Circus Lane 

If you haven’t put the capital on your Scotland itinerary already, Edinburgh is one of the easiest day trips from Glasgow by train. The journey takes just under an hour. 

Edinburgh is a compact hill city divided into a Medieval Old Town and a Georgian New Town . The best thing to do? Explore on foot! Most of the city centre is accessible to walk but there are buses and trams if you prefer not to. 

On this day trip to Edinburgh from Glasgow, you’ll arrive at Waverley Station. From there, walk up the hill into the Old Town, defined by its narrow cobblestone streets and Gothic spindly rooftops. 

You can walk the Royal Mile which joins Edinburgh Castle with the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Look out for St. Gile’s Cathedral, the colourful Victoria Street and Grassmarket. Head to the Vennel for the best views of the castle. 

On a good weather day, you might want to walk up Arthur’s Seat , an extinct volcano in Holyrood Park with panoramic views. In New Town, visit Carlton Hill to see the Dugald Stewart Monument and the unfinished National Monument of Scotland. 

My favourite two areas are Dean Village and Circus Lane. They look like they belong in the countryside rather than the capital. 

Top tip: If you’re in Edinburgh on a weekday, I recommend visiting Chez Jules . This French restaurant does a set three-course menu for £12.90. Their French onion soup is amazing. You don’t need to book but get there early as it fills up quickly!

Getting there: Take the train from Glasgow Queen Street to Edinburgh Waverley. The journey takes just under an hour. 

Editor’s tip: Book your trains through Trainline or directly through ScotRail. You can pay the driver when you board regional buses but it’s best to book tickets in advance with Scottish Citylink coaches.

2. Isle of Arran 

Highlights: Castles | Arran Distillery | Coastal walks | Wildlife 

The Isle of Arran is located on the west coast of Scotland in the Firth of Clyde. The seventh-largest Scottish island is also one of the easiest to visit on a day trip – particularly if you’re not driving.

Arran is nicknamed ‘Scotland in Miniature’ as it has highlands and lowlands, castles, distilleries, waterfalls, standing stones and wildlife. 

The highest peak on the island is Goatfell (no goats were harmed…), a popular six-hour climb through pretty glens and up along dramatic granite ridges to the top. 

The walk to the summit is challenging but you’re rewarded with incredible panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and west of Scotland. 

For a more laidback Glasgow to Arran day trip , you can visit Brodick Castle or take a bus along the north coast to Lochranza.

The pretty village surrounds a bay which has the ruins of a 16th-century castle at the centre. It’s free to go in. A short walk inland is Arran Distillery with a cafe and gift shop. 

On my visit, I had lunch at the Sandwich Station in Lochranza, a sweet little kiosk with delicious sandwiches. 

Afterwards, I walked along the headland on the Fairy Dell trail which takes about an hour to complete. Local legend claims it’s the gateway to fairyland. I didn’t see any fairies but I did see seals and red deer!

Top tip: There are three bus routes on Arran: 322 (across the String to Blackwaterfoot), 323 (south via Whiting Bay to Blackwaterfoot) and 324 (north via Lochranza to Blackwaterfoot). They aren’t that regular but they do line up with the ferry times. 

Getting there: Take the train from Glasgow Central to Ardrossan Harbour then catch the Caledonian MacBrayne ferry to Brodick. They both line up so you can’t miss them. It takes just over two hours. 

3. Balloch 

Highlights: Loch Lomond | Balloch Castle | Balloch County Park | Secret walled garden 

Balloch is a town at the base of Loch Lomond. It’s one of the most accessible Loch Lomond day trips from Glasgow if you’re not driving as there’s a train station with a direct line to the city. 

Balloch is a handy jumping-off point to explore the loch and the surrounding Trossachs National Park. There are buses to nearby Luss and Balmaha and cruises on the loch. 

Don’t miss out on seeing the town though. There is a pier where you’ll find Maid of the Loch, the last paddle steamer built in the UK. 

You can see owls and eagles at the nearby Bird of Prey Centre and do an aerial course with ziplines in the trees at TreeZone Loch Lomond. 

Make sure you visit Balloch Castle & County Park on the other side of the River Leven. You can stroll along the banks of the loch or wander through woodland. 

The castle was closed when I was there except for the public toilets. See if you can find the secret walled garden a short stroll away!

Top tip: I had some delicious fish ‘n’ chips from Blue Lagoon. Balloch House is a nice pub for drinks. 

Getting there: Take the train from Glasgow Queen Street to Balloch. It takes about 50 minutes to get there. 

Highlights: Conic Hill | Inchcailloch 

Balmaha is a tiny village on the eastern shores of Loch Lomond. It sits at the base of Conic Hill , one of the most famous hikes in the area. 

You get an incredible panorama of the loch and its islands from the top and it’s about 2-3 hours to complete. It’s one of the best day trips from Glasgow for that reason. 

You can also visit Inchcailloch from Balmaha. It’s a tiny islet covered in trees you can get around in a few hours. 

There are a couple of well-marked trails to follow, including one up Tom na Nigheanan, the islet’s highest point. It has gorgeous views of Loch Lomond and Conic Hill.  

Look out for the ruins of an old church and burial ground. Legend has it a nunnery was established here in honour of an Irish missionary, St. Kentigerna who settled on the island in the 8th century. 

There is a small campsite at Port Bawn which is open from 1st March to 30th September. It has picnic tables and compost toilets. 

Top tip: To get to Inchcailloch from Balmaha, there is a tiny ferry which runs every half hour from Balmaha Boatyard to the North Pier from May to September. I did see it running in April but the timings were less frequent. I visited via the water taxi from Luss. 

Getting there: Take the train from Glasgow Queen Street to Balloch. Then catch the 309 McColl’s bus from Alexandria to Balmaha. It takes about an hour and 37 minutes. 

5. Luss 

Highlights: Loch Lomond cruises | Beinn Dubh | Pretty stone cottages 

Luss is one of the prettiest villages on Loch Lomond and a designated Conservation Village. 

Located on the western shores just north of Balloch, it’s known for its stone cottages built in the 19th century to house workers from the nearby slate quarry and cotton mill. You can find them on Pier Road leading down to Luss Pier. 

Luss’ history goes back to the early medieval period. The church graveyard has stones dating back to the 7th and 8th centuries and an 11th-century Viking Hogback burial stone. 

Next to the pier is a pebble beach, a nice spot for a picnic or watersports like kayaking or paddle boarding. Head to the pier if you want to cruise on Loch Lomond or get a water taxi to Balmaha and Inchcailloch. 

The best hike in the area is Beinn Dubh, a hill with epic views to rival Conic Hill. The three-hour walk has spectacular views of Loch Lomond and you don’t have to go too high to enjoy the panorama. 

I climbed Beinn Dubh as Conic Hill was closed when I was there. I picked up a cake from the village shop below and climbed the summit for a spectacular picnic. I had the place pretty much to myself too. 

Top tip: Cruise Loch Lomond offers cruises and water taxis from Luss Pier which you’ll need to book in advance in summer. I used them to get to Inchcailloch. It’s more expensive than the ferry from Balmaha though. 

Getting there: Catch the Scottish Citylink bus from Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station to Luss. It’s the most direct route and takes about an hour. The bus number is likely to change so check in advance. 

You could also take the train from Glasgow Queen Street to Balloch then catch the 305 McColl’s bus to Luss. It takes around an hour and 40 minutes. 

6. Pollok Country Park 

Highlights: Highland cows | Pollok House | The Burrel Collection | Nature walks 

Pollok Country Park is technically in Glasgow but it’s a short train ride from the city centre and feels like an escape to the countryside. 

It’s so easy to do if you’re looking for a laidback Glasgow day trip with minimal transport. The 46-hectare country park has plenty of fields, woodlands and riverside walks. 

The park is home to Pollok House, a National Trust-owned property built in 1752. It’s closed for refurbishments for the next two years but the garden and tea room are open. 

The Burrell Collection is also in the park. The world-famous museum has artworks by Cezanne and Degas, medieval artefacts, over 200 tapestries and a collection of Chinese art.

My favourite part of the park is the field full of highland cattle. These adorable shaggy orange cows are iconic to Scotland and you can view them safely from behind a fence. 

Top tip: The country park is huge. I recommend focusing on Pollok House, the Burrell Collection and the highland cows rather than trying to see it all. 

Getting there: Catch the train from Glasow Central to Pollockshaws West Rail Station. The journey takes just 11 minutes – one of the easiest day trips near Glasgow!

7. Stirling 

Highlights: Stirling Castle | Wallace Monument | Historic Old City 

If you’re looking for more day train trips from Glasgow, Stirling is a small city with 900 years of history. Nicknamed ‘Little Edinburgh, its most famous landmark is the medieval castle sprawled across a volcanic crag high above the city. 

Stirling Castle was built between 1490 and 1600 but there have been castle fortifications since medieval times. 

It was the childhood home of Mary Queen of Scots and you can see her living quarters alongside other fascinating features like the Great Hall, royal palace and kitchens on a tour. 

On the other side of the city in the Abbey Craig is the Wallace Monument, a 67m tower built to commemorate Sir William Wallace. The Scottish knight defeated the English army at the Battle of Stirling Bridge in 1297. 

Walk up the 246-step spiral staircase to the Crown and be greeted by epic views across the Forth Valley. 

Top tip: Stirling’s historic old city centre is hilly and has cobblestone streets so wear comfortable shoes for walking. 

Getting there: Take the train from Glasgow Queen Street to Stirling. It takes about half an hour.

Editor’s tip: If you want to make the most of your time, this small group tour takes you to Stirling Castle and includes a cruise on Loch Lomond. It departs from Glasgow.

8. Falkirk 

Highlights: The Kelpies | Falkirk Wheel 

Falkirk is located between Glasgow and Edinburgh. Its biggest claim to fame is the Kelpies , two 30-metre high steel horse head statues in Helix Park. 

They tower over a canal extension which links the Forth & Clyde Canal to the North Sea and are inspired by the horses that pulled barges along Scotland’s waterways. 

The country park is free to visit. There are walking and cycling routes along the canal plus a visitor centre with a cafe and exhibition. 

You might also want to check out Falkirk Wheel. Built in 2002, the world’s only rotating boat lift is an architectural marvel. 

It connects the Forth & Clyde Canal with the Union Canal 35 metres above it, replacing a flight of heavy locks that used to take a day to get through. 

You can see it in action on a boat tour. Other outdoor activities include kayaking, walking and hiring bikes. 

Top tip: Unlike some of the other easier day trips from Glasgow by public transport on this list, the Falkirk Wheel and Kelpies are a bit more challenging to do both in a single day but it’s possible. 

They are about an hour away from each other by bus. The F14A is a direct bus but it’s not that frequent. Use Traveline Scotland to find the best route. 

Getting there: To get to the Kelpies, take the train from Glasgow Queens Street to Larbet and then the 2A Midland Bluebird bus to Grangemouth. 

For the Falkirk Wheel, take the X37 Midland Bluebird bus from Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station to Camelon and walk about 12 minutes to the wheel. Both journeys should take about an hour and 15-30 minutes. 

9. Inveraray

Highlights: Inveraray Castle | Inveraray Jail | Estate walks up Dùn na Cuaiche

Inveraray is a quiet and pretty town on the shores of Loch Fyne in Argyll & Bute and one of the most popular day trips from Glasgow by bus. 

A short walk from the town and hidden among the trees is Inveraray Castle , the ancestral home of the Campbell family. The Duke and Duchess of Argyll & Bute still live there today. 

There’s been a castle on Loch Fyne since the 1400s but the castle you can see today was built in the 1700s and refurbished in 1877 after a fire to include a third floor and conical tower roofs. 

Unlike Scotland’s fortress-style castles, Inverarary Castle is more decorative with its mix of Gothic, baroque and Palladian-inspired architecture. You might also recognise it from Downton Abbey. 

The castle and garden are open to the public from Thursday to Monday and you can buy tickets online or at the door. There’s a tearoom onsite which is open at the same time. 

The rest of Inveraray Castle’s 60,000-acre estate is free to explore and it has some beautiful walking trails, including the 6-mile loop across Frew’s Bridge. 

Dùn na Cuaiche is another walk which starts from the castle and leads you up the summit of a hill for beautiful views of the town and loch disappearing into the distance below. 

Inveraray Jail is the biggest attraction in town. The old 19th-century prison has a courtroom which plays extracts from cases 150 years ago. There’s an old prison and a new prison where you can see the cramped cells inmates lived in. 

The museum starts with a macabre Torture, Death and Damnation exhibition which has all the instruments of torture they used to inflict punishment on criminals. 

Top tip: If you would rather not spend the money and go inside Inveraray Castle, you can still get a nice enough view of the castle and gardens from the outside. I just peeked through the fence!

Getting there: The easiest and most direct route is the Scottish Citylink bus from Buchanan Bus Station to Inveraray. It should take about an hour and 46 minutes. Book in advance. 

10. Oban, Glencoe, Highland Lochs & Castles Tour

Highlights: Glen Coe | Kilchurn Castle | Oban | Castle Stalker | Rannoch Moor 

Okay, this is a small group day tour . I’ve included it as it takes you to some major places on the west coast of Scotland on a one-day trip from Glasgow. They would otherwise be tricky to reach without a car. 

You get a glimpse of Scotland’s most scenic driving routes without driving. The full-day tour departs from Glasgow and stops at Loch Lomond for a coffee break. We stopped at Tarbet but it’s sometimes Luss. 

The next stop is the Rest and Be Thankful Viewpoint named by English soldiers in 1753 after they completed the military road through Glen Croe. 

As you go up into the Scottish Highlands, you pass the Arrochar Alps and see Inveraray Castle. Next, you head to Loch Awe and Kilchurn Castle. 

You stop for lunch and have the most amazing seafood in Oban (there are other options if you can’t eat seafood) before pausing at Castle Stalker. 

At last, you make your way to Glencoe , see the famous white house at the base of Buachaille Etive Mor and drive through Harry Potter and James Bond filming locations. 

The final stop is Rannoch Moor before you return to Glasgow. This is one of my favourite one-day tours from Glasgow. It ticked off so many great highlights for me which I wouldn’t have been able to do otherwise. 

It’s a great option if you’re short on time or just want a day to see some of the best of the west of Scotland. 

Top tip: This tour gets busy during the summer so make sure you book in advance to avoid disappointment. 

As for where to eat in Oban, the Seafood Hut is a casual shack on the pier that serves up platters of fresh seafood. The crab sandwiches are phenomenal. Bring cash. 

Getting there: The Rabbie’s tour departs from Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station. Book in advance.

11. Outlander Day Tour 

Highlights: Outlander filming locations | Culross | Midhope Castle | Blackness Castle | Falkland

If you’re a fan of Outlander, this tour is for you. If you love castles, history, pretty towns and Monty Python, this one is also for you!

It’s another one of Rabbie’s small group tours of Scotland from Glasgow and it covers more of the centre and east of Scotland. You can see how the pastoral east coast differs from the rugged west. 

The tour starts with a drive past Stirling Castle until you reach Doune Castle (Castle Leoch in Outlander). You get to wander around the 14th-century castle before driving north to the pretty town of Falkland for lunch.  

You next go to my personal favourite, Midhope Castle (Lallybroch in Outlander). It has a scenic exterior but the inside is derelict. You will need to pay a small fee to get close to it.

Afterwards, you do a self-guided tour around Blackness Castle (Fort William in Outlander). The last stop is Culross with its cobblestone streets and striking bright yellow Culross Palace . 

Top tip: Midhope Castle costs £7 to get a closer look at. You can pay by cash or card at the small kiosk. All other castle entrance fees are included in your ticket. 

Getting there: The Rabbie’s tour departs from Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station. Book in advance . 

Final thoughts on the best day trips from Glasgow by public transport 

There are so many easy day trips from Glasow you can do without a car. I hope this guide has inspired you and given you the confidence to explore the areas around Glasgow by public transport. 

Whether you’re looking for castles, epic scenery, hikes, wildlife or city sightseeing, these day trips from Glasgow by public transport have got it all. 

My go-to travel planner is Traveline Scotland as its routes are more accurate than Google Maps. The latter is still useful for working out where you are and where the bus stop is. 

Depending on where you want to go, sometimes tours are the most convenient as your transport is handled and you can enjoy the ride. 

So, which day trip will you be doing? 

Looking for more car-free Scotland travel guides? Check out these posts!

• 13 Awesome Day Trips From Edinburgh By Train Or Bus
• Scotland West Coast Itinerary: How to See the Best of the West Coast in 10 Days
• What to Do in Inverness Without a Car: 13 Fun Activities

This post may contain affiliate / compensated links. As an Amazon Associate, I also earn from qualifying purchases. For full information, please see my disclaimer here .

About The Author

Francesca brooking.

Francesca Brooking is the Founder of Little Lost Travel. A travel expert with a passion for the planet, Francesca is on a mission to help you travel well. From Costa Rica to Jordan, she's travelled all over the world. When she's not off on an adventure, she's reviewing sustainable travel products and writing travel guides.

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Last Updated on 07/07/2024

Finding the Universe

Travel tales, photography and a dash of humor

The 10 Best Day Trips from Glasgow, Scotland

Last updated: May 29, 2024 . Written by Laurence Norah - 2 Comments

Glasgow is a wonderful city that is worth visiting, and it also makes for a great base to explore a number of Scottish highlights, from Loch Lomond to whisky distilleries to Burns Country. In today’s post, we’re going to go through our favourite day trips from Glasgow, to give you some ideas of what is possible when you base yourself in Scotland’s largest city.

For each of the day trips we list we’re going to give you all the information you need on how best to do the trip, including transport options, directions, and the amount of time it will require.

We’ll also provide information on visiting Glasgow, including links to a number of other posts we’ve written about visiting this friendly city.

The Best Day Trips from Glasgow

Below you’ll find some of our favourite day trips from Glasgow, which are not listed in any particular order – we think these are all excellent day trips.

We’d also highly suggest you spend some time exploring Glasgow itself if you’re staying here, check out our guide to things to do in Glasgow to start with, and see the end of the post for more reading inspiration.

1. Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park

Certainly one of the most popular day trips to take from Glasgow is to visit Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park.

Loch Lomond is only around a 40 minute drive from Glasgow city center, making it an ideal destination to visit for the day. As well as Loch Lomond itself, which is surrounded by beautiful villages like Luss, there are other lochs like Loch Katrine, where you can take a steam boat across the lake for lovely sightseeing opportunities.

There are also myriad other adventures to be add, from water activities to adventure parks to cute towns and villages. There’s even an ancient stone circle you can visit.

As you can see, there a lot to see and do in this area, and you could easily spend a whole day at Loch Lomond. We’ve put a full guide together of things to do in Loch Lomond , which should serve as inspiration. If you have the inclination, we can also recommend a visit to the Devil’s Pulpit , which is just south of the park, and is a wonderful photography location.

How to get to Loch Lomond from Glasgow

Loch Lomond is only 25 miles from Glasgow, so one option is to drive yourself. This will certainly give you the most flexibility, and will be cost effective – especially if you are a group. Check car rental prices on Discover Cars here . They compare all the major providers to help you get the best deal for your trip.

It’s also possible to take public transport to Loch Lomond from Glasgow, although this will be a bit limiting. From Glasgow, you can catch a train to Balloch, from where you can take a cruise on the Loch, as well as to Tarbet and Ardlui, from where you can take waterbus services to Loch Lomond. Check train times and book tickets here .

Within the park, there are a number of bus services, you can check and plan routes on the Traveline website .

An easier option if you don’t want to drive or figure out public transport is to take a tour of Loch Lomond. For tours in Scotland we recommend and have used Rabbie’s Trail Burners for numerous tours. We love their small group nature (their comfortable buses seat no more than 16), and their driver-guides are really excellent.

They offer two tours to Loch Lomond from Glasgow:

• a half-day tour that includes the Loch and a Whisky Distillery Visit
• a full day tour which includes Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle and Whisky

We think one of those would be a great option for visiting Loch Lomond, plus they both include some extra stops to complete the experience.

2. Burns Country, Ayrshire, and Culzean Castle

One of our favourite places to explore near Glasgow is Burns Country and the Ayrshire coast, which runs to the south west of the city.

This is definitely an undervisited part of Scotland, despite once being the birthplace of Scotland’s most famous poet – Robert Burns.

Burns, for those of you not familiar with him, was responsible for penning a wide range of well known poems, most famous of which today is “Auld Lang Syne”, which is traditionally sung at Hogmanay , Scotland’s New Year celebration. Burns even has his own day of celebration in Scotland, Burns Night, which is held annually on the 25th January, the poets birthday.

Burns Night celebrates all things related to the poet (and Scotland), and includes traditional dancing, poetry and song recitals, and traditional foods including, of course, haggis.

Whilst Burns lived in a number of locations around Scotland, the region of Ayrshire is the part of Scotland most associated with him. It was here that he was born, in Alloway, and today you can visit both the cottage of his birth and the Burns Birthplace Museum , which is a fantastic place to learn all about the poet.

Alloway is also home to the “Brig o’ Doon”, an old stone bridge that featured in a poem, and the crumbling Alloway Auld Kirk.

There are a number of other locations in Ayrshire that are also linked to Burns, including the Bachelor’s Club Museum in Tarbolton, Souter Jonnie’s Cottage in Kirkswald, and the Burns House Museum in Mauchline.

True fans will also want to head to Dumfries (home of the annual Burns Big Supper Festival ), where you can visit another Burns House, as well as the Globe Inn and Ellisland Farm .

Of course, Ayrshire is more than just a series of sights relating to Robert Burns. There’s lovely coastline here which is dotted with attractions. One particularly popular one is Culzean Castle .

This beautiful castle, designed by Robert Adams, sits perched atop a cliff and has rooms you can tour, gorgeous gardens to wander, an on-site cafe, and even a beach. This is a must-visit location when touring this part of Scotland, and is easily reached from Glasgow as part of a day trip.

Note that many of these attractions, as well as others in this guide, are National Trust for Scotland properties. If you plan to visit a number of them, you will likely benefit from an NTS membership , which will give you free access to these sites. We have a membership and use it regularly across the UK, and it has paid for itself many times over! You can buy yours here .

How to visit the Ayrshire Coast from Glasgow

The two easiest ways to explore the Ayrshire coast are to either drive yourself or to take a tour. For the former, you can pick up a hire car in Glasgow and then plan your route yourself – with a whole day to play with you’ll be able to see most of the Burns sights and Culzean Castle. The total round trip distance will be around 100 miles.

Another option is to take a specific tour. For this day trip, the tour we recommend and have done ourselves is the  Culzean Castle, Burns Country & the Ayrshire Coast  tour with Rabbie’s. This is a full day tour which includes many of our suggested stops, which starts and finishes in Glasgow.

From Glasgow you can also take public transport to visit some of the sights in this area. For example, you can take the train to Ayr, from where you can pick up a bus that will take you to Alloway and Glenside. From the latter it’s about a 20 minute walk down to Culzean Castle. You can check and plan routes on the Traveline website .

3. Outlander Filming Locations near Glasgow

Fans of the Outlander TV show have flocked to Scotland to visit the filming locations from the series, many of which are found either in Glasgow itself, or within easy driving distance of Glasgow.

The main Outlander locations in Glasgow itself are as follows:

• Glasgow Cathedral – used in Season 2 of Outlander as the filming location for the Parisian hospital, L’Hôpital des Anges
• University of Glasgow – multiple locations around the Gilmorehill campus of the university were used to depict scenes of Harvard University in Boston
• Kelvingrove Park – this was used for a number of scenes of Bostin in Season 3 of Outlander
• Pollok Country Park – Glasgow’s largest park was used for a number of outdoor scenes in season 2 and season 4 of the show, spanning locations in Scotland, France and North Carolina

The main locations that you’ll want to visit within driving distance of Glasgow are as follows:

• Doune Castle . This beautiful 14th castle stood in for Castle Leoch in the show. It also appeared in Game of Thrones, the Outlander King and Monty Python and the Holy Grail, amongst others.
• Falkland – a town in the Kingdom of Fife region of Scotland, which was the location of the 1940’s Inverness scenes in the show
• Culross – a stunning village also found in the Kingdom of Fife. Much of the village is being preserved by the National Trust for Scotland. The village has played host to multiple Outlander scenes, and is the location of Cranesmuir in the show.
• Hopetoun House – Hopetoun House, around 20 minute from Linlithgow, is a gorgeous home which featured as the stately home of the Duke of Sandringham in Outlander
• Midhope Castle – a pretty but fairly derelict castle which was used as Jamie’s family home. It’s popular to visit, but you can only see the outside, as the inside is unsafe and thus sealed off. It is on private land and is sometimes closed off to visitors. This is found on the Hopetoun House estate, and you can see visiting information here .
• Blackness Castle – A stunning sea-edge fortress that is shaped like a battleship. Stood in for Fort William in the show
• Linlithgow Palace – this was the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots, and is a stunning ruined castle which is well worth visiting. It featured as Wentworth Prison in Outlander, and has appeared in a number of other shows as well.

There are of course more Outlander filming locations you can visit, but these are the main ones we think fans of the show will enjoy visiting as part of an Outlander day trip.

For more Outlander locations, see our detailed guide to all the Outlander filming locations in Scotland .

How to see the Outlander Filming Locations from Glasgow

For the locations in Glasgow, these are easy to enough to visit, either on foot or by public transport.

The Outlander filming locations outside of Glasgow are a little bit spread out, so our suggestion is to either visit them yourself with a hire car , or to take a tour.

In terms of a tour, we have taken and can recommend the Outlander Filming locations tour with Rabbie’s. This is a full day tour, and despite Jess and I never having seen the show, we really enjoyed this tour, with the village of Culross, Blackness Castle, and Linlithgow Palace being real highlights.

If you do plan on visiting a number of Outlander locations, we can also recommend you look into a Historic Scotland pass . This will get you into over 70 properties in Scotland which are managed by Historic Scotland, which includes Doune Castle, Blackness Castle and Linlithgow Palace, as well as other major attractions like Edinburgh Castle and Stirling Castle.

4. Take a Tour of Whisky Distilleries near Glasgow

You can’t come to Scotland and not visit a whisky distillery. Even if you’re not a fan of the drink itself, we think this is something that is quintessentially Scottish in nature, and we always enjoy visiting the distilleries as they are usually historically interesting and in pretty buildings and/or locations.

Of course, the opportunity to drink whisky is one Laurence would never pass up, even if Jess isn’t convinced yet.

There are a number of Whisky Distilleries near Glasgow that you can visit, including one that opened in 2018 in the city itself. Here’s a quick overview of some recommended options:

• The Clydeside Distillery – Opened in 2018, this distillery is found on the banks of the River Clyde in the former Pumphouse building at Queen’s Dock. You can take a tour of the distillery and learn about the history of whisky in Scotland, plus sample whiskies from different regions of the country
• Auchentoshan Distillery – just outside of Glasgow, this distillery has been making Lowland style single malts since 1800. It is triple distilled, and has a slightly more delicate and sweeter flavour than other whiskies – possibly a good option for those of you who are new to Scotch whisky. It’s open for tours and tastings.
• Glengoyne Distillery  – we’ve visited a number of distilleries in Scotland, and Glengoyne is definitely a favourite and the most well-known in this area. They pride themselves on taking their time and using original techniques, honed over 200 years of whisky distilling. You can take a tour of their facility and try their excellent whisky. Plus you can read about our experience doing just that right here .
• Deanston Distillery – this distillery is found in the town of Deanston, less than a mile from Doune Castle, making it a good option for a visit of both. The 18th century building was originally a cotton mill, but it opened as a distillery in 1967. Tours and tastings of their excellent single malts are available.

As you can see, there are a number of whisky distilleries both in and near Glasgow – and this is just the tip of the iceberg. Now, let’s have a look at the best way to visit them.

How to get to the Whisky Distilleries near Glasgow

We would advise against driving to the whisky distilleries unless you have a committed designated driver, as whilst most of the distilleries will let you take your sample “to-go”, it isn’t quite the same experience. It’s also definitely not worth drinking and driving in Scotland as the drink-drive limits are very low, and fines are quite high!

So, if you don’t want to drive, you have a few options – take a tour, or use public transport.

The distilleries closest to Glasgow are easily reachable by public transport, and these are a good option if you also don’t want to spend a full day doing whisky distilleries.

In this case your best option is likely going to be to visit one of the distilleries which is closer to Glasgow, like the Clydeside. This is near the the SSE Hydro and the Riverside Museum of Transport, and can be easily reached by bus from central Glasgow. You could even walk. Another option is to take Glasgow’s hop on hop off bus , which has a stop just near here.

The next closest distillery we recommend is Auchentoshan Distillery, and the easiest way to get here by public transport is to take the train from central Glasgow out to Dalmuir, from where it’s a 20 minute walk or four minute bus ride across to the distillery.

It’s also possible to visit Glengoyne Distillery by public transport, with the B10 bus taking around an hour to get here. For Deanston, you can take the train out to Stirling, and then take the 59 bus to the distillery, which will also take an hour.

For more information on all these public transport options and for up to date timetables and route information, take a look at the Traveline website .

If you’d prefer to take a tour, which would be our suggested option, you have a few options. First, you can take a tour which includes a number of sights as well as a whisky distillery. We think this is going to be the best option as you’ll get more out of your day. Alternatively, there are a couple of private tours from Glasgow which will just take you to the distilleries.

Here are the options we suggest:

• A half-day tour that includes a Glengoyne Distillery Visit and Loch Lomond
• A full day tour which includes a Glengoyne Distillery, Loch Lomond and Stirling Castle
• A private tour that lasts around 2 hours from Glasgow to Tuillibardine Distillery
• A full day private tour which includes Auchentoshan Distillery, Deanston Distillery and Glengoyne Distillery, as well as other sightseeing opportunities en route including Loch Lomond and Loch Lubnaig

5. Stirling

The city of Stirling, much like Edinburgh, is home to a beautiful medieval castle, a medieval old town, and many attractions that make is worth visiting.

Also like Edinburgh, the history of human habitation in Stirling goes back thousands of years, with structures believed to have been built where Stirling Castle today stands over 2,000 years ago.

Stirling, with it’s easily defensible hill, was a key strategic position for centuries, and was seen as the gateway to the highlands. With clear views across the plains in all directions, any army coming from or going to the Highlands was inevitably going to pass within view of Stirling itself. For a time, Stirling was also the capital of Scotland, although it has only been officially designated as a city since 2002.

Near to Stirling, and also worth a visit, is the National Wallace Monument . Built in 1869, this 220ft  monument celebrates the story of Sir William Wallace, a 13th century Scottish freedom fighter who fought the English. The monument overlooks the location of the Battle of Stirling Bridge , where Wallace defeated the English forces under the command of King Edward I.

As you would imagine, there is plenty to do in Stirling to fill a day, from visiting the castle to wandering the medieval streets to visiting the Wallace Monument.

How to Get to Stirling From Glasgow

The easiest way to get to Stirling from Glasgow is to take the train – this is a direct service that takes just under an hour. You can find train times and book tickets online here .

Naturally, it’s also possible to drive from Glasgow to Stirling, which will take around 45 minutes to an hour. This is a good option if you plan on doing additional sightseeing in the area, but if your only goal is to visit Stirling, we don’t suggest hiring a car just for this purpose as you’ll likely have to pay for parking, and the train will be just as easy.

The other option you have is to take a day tour. These will usually include time in Stirling as well as some other attractions, such as this tour by Rabbie’s Tours which includes Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond and a whisky distillery .

Falkirk is very close to Stirling, and if you’re visiting from Glasgow with your own transport, we can highly recommend visiting both these locations on the same day.

Falkirk has a number of attractions that make a visit worthwhile. First of these are the Kelpies . These massive statues of two horse heads are the largest equine statues in the world, and at 100ft high, it’s hard to imagine they’ll lose that title for a while!

A Kelpie is a water spirit of Scottish mythology which shape shifts when it is on land, most commonly into a horse. They tend to be fairly evil in nature, with the stories surrounding them usually involving them enticing people into the water in order to be devoured. A story still told by some parents to keep children from going into water by themselves.

Thankfully, the Kelpie statues are somewhat less terrifying, and are instead just nice to visit and admire. Visiting the Kelpies is free. You can also take a tour and actually go inside the statues too, although there’s a fee for this.

The second thing to do in Falkirk is to visit the Falkirk Wheel . This is a remarkable feat of engineering, which serves as a lift for boats, taking them up an impressive 24 metres in height. It’s the only rotating boat-lift of its kind in the world, and it connects the Forth and Clyde Canal with the Union Canal, meaning you can take a canal boat between Glasgow and Edinburgh.

If you don’t have a boat though, don’t worry. From the Falkirk Wheel you can ride the on the boat lift as part of a boat tour, following which you take a trip on the Union Canal.

Finally, when visiting Falkirk, we can recommend visiting the beautiful Callendar House . This a a beautiful 14th century French style chateau, which is quite the sight. Also on the grounds are remnants the UNESCO world heritage listed Antonine Wall, which was the northern frontier of the Roman Empire for a wall.

The Callendar House grounds are open year round, and admission is free. You can also visit the house, and you can see opening times here .

How to Get to Falkirk From Glasgow

You have lots of options for getting to Falkirk from Glasgow. The easiest will be to drive, which will take you around 30 – 45 minutes. Driving will make your time in Falkirk a bit easier, as the three main attractions are somewhat spread out across the town, plus you’ll be able to add in some other attractions such as nearby Linlithgow palace and Stirling Castle.

The next option is to take public transport. There are two train stations in Falkirk, and the train only takes around 20 minutes. Once in Falkirk, you can use public buses or local taxis to get around. Purchase train tickets here , and check out local public transport options here .

The final option is to take a tour. Rabbie’s have a half day tour from Glasgow to Falkirk , which includes visiting both the Kelpies and the Falkirk Wheel.

7. Edinburgh

Of course, one awesome day trip to take from Glasgow is to Edinburgh! Whilst there are more than enough things to do in Edinburgh to fill a few days of exploring , a day trip will still let you see a great deal that the city has to offer.

We’d suggest spending time visiting Edinburgh Castle, wandering the Royal Mile, visiting some of the many museums, perhaps checking out Edinburgh’s Harry Potter locations  and taking in some of the many free museums on offer.

You’ll also find plentiful shopping, dining and entertainment options to keep you busy, whatever time of year you visit. And in the busy festival times over August and New Years, many people choose to stay in Glasgow and day trip to Edinburgh for cost saving reasons.

How to Get To Edinburgh from Glasgow

Scotland’s two largest cities are well connected by road and rail, and there are many trains and buses a day running between the two cities. We’d suggest that taking the train would be the fastest and easiest option, depositing you right in the center of Edinburgh, within easy walking distance of the major attractions. Find train times and book tickets online here .

There are also buses between the two all the time, which will take between 60 and 90 minutes depending on traffic. Check bus times and buy tickets here .

You can also drive between the two cities, a trip we have taken many times. Our only advice is not to do this during the busy morning and evening rush hours, as the motorway between the two cities gets very busy!

We’ve not found any tours that run from Glasgow to Edinburgh, so you are going to have to do this under your own steam!

8. Museum of Rural Life & Pollock House

You don’t have to go far from the city centre of Glasgow to find a number of interesting attractions which are worth visiting.

For example, just outside of the city center is the National Museum of Rural Life , a jointly run venture between the National Trust for Scotland and the National Museums of Scotland. Here you can learn all about the history of rural living in Scotland, plus visit a working farm and well-preserved traditional farm house. Definitely a good one if you’re travelling with kids!

Another great option in a similar direction, just to the south of the city, is Pollok House , found in Pollok Country Park. This is an 18th century property that was the home of the Stirling Maxwell family, who lived on and owned this land for almost 700 years.

It’s a beautiful property, and lovers of stately homes will definitely want to visit. Whilst you are in the area, we can also recommend exploring Pollok Country Park, which is a lovely green space for walking. It’s also home to The Burrell Collection , which is a unique collection of art pieces that range from 5,000 year old Chinese artifacts to medieval treasures to French paintings.

Note the Burrell Collection is closed for renovations until 2020.

Getting to the Museum of Rural Life from Glasgow

Getting to the National Museum of Rural Life and Pollok Museum is easy if you have a car, as these are both just a short distance from the city center.

There’s also a bus service that runs out to the Museum of Rural Life, which takes around half an hour from the city center.

Getting to Pollock House from Glasgow

To get to Pollock House from Glasgow, you can either drive or take public transport.

If you drive, there’s parking on site, which is free for National Trust members You can also take the train from the city center out to Pollokshaws West, from where it’s a 25 minute walk across Pollok Country Park to Pollok House.

9. Oban and Glen Coe

Looking north from Glasgow now, and a trip to the Scottish Highlands. These are a must-visit for anyone coming to Scotland, with the mountainous terrain and sweeping dramatic landscapes offering a marked contrast from the lowland region.

From Glasgow, you could do a day trip that takes you up through the pretty historical town of Inveraray, past the ruins of stunning Kilchurn Castle, through the town of Oban (also known as the seafood capital of Scotland), and then up to the majestic valley of Glen Coe .

Glen Coe is home to one of Scotland’s ski resorts , as well as being a Harry Potter filming location  and is very much worth visiting at any time of year.

On your way back to Glasgow, you could take a different route and head back down through the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, making for a complete and full day out.

How to get to Oban and Glen Coe from Glasgow

The two easiest options for getting to Oban and then on to Glen Coe are going to be either with a car, or to take a tour.

You can get also to Oban by train from Glasgow (a lovely journey that goes through the Trossach National Park), but you’ll be a bit limited in terms of getting to Glen Coe, plus at three hours, it’s a fairly long ride. This would work if you only wanted to visit Oban, but to be honest, we think taking a tour is going to be a better option.

The tour we recommend is the  Oban, Glen Coe, Highland Lochs & Castles tour with Rabbie’s, which stops at all the highlights we mention, and will give you a great taste of what Scotland has to offer.

10. Loch Ness

If you’re excited about the idea of the Highlands and want to get even further into this region, then you might want to look into a trip up to beautiful Loch Ness.

Loch Ness is the home of Nessie, the Loch Ness monster, one of the most enduring and well known tales of the 20th century. It’s also famous as being the largest loch by volume in the UK – if you added up all the water of the lakes in England and Wales, it would be less than the volume of water in Loch Ness!

Of course, there’s lots more to do in Loch Ness than hunt for Nessie. You can take a cruise on the lake, visit the crumbling Urquhart castle , and visit some of the cute villages around the Loch.

If you’re planning on going all the way up to Loch Ness from Glasgow, it makes sense to do this as a loop. The drive is around 3.5 – 4 hours each way, so plan for this to be a long day with an early start and a late finish.

Highlights along the route that we’d suggest stopping at (or at least passing through!) include Loch Lomond, Kilchurn Castle, Glencoe, Fort Augustus, Urquhart Castle, Inverness, and the drive past the Cairngorms National Park .

In our opinion, visiting Loch Ness as a day trip from Glasgow or Edinburgh makes for a long day with a lot of driving, and it might be best split up into two days, with an overnight stop in Inverness.

Alternatively, our preferred option would be to base yourselves in Inverness and explore from here – Inverness is a beautiful city, and we have a guide to the best day trips from Inverness to give you lots of ideas for what to do from here. However, it is possible to do it, so let’s look at the transport options.

How to Get to Loch Ness from Glasgow

The best two options for visiting Loch Ness from Glasgow are to drive yourself or to take a tour.

Public transport is an option, but only if you are ok with only seeing Loch Ness. In this case, you could take the train from Glasgow to Inverness, which will take around 3.5 hours. From Inverness you can then take a local bus to Loch Ness. However, we don’t think this is a very practical option given how much time you will spend on public transport.

A better option would be to take a full day tour from Glasgow up to Loch Ness. The tour we recommend is the full day “ Loch Ness, Glencoe & the Highlands ” with Rabbie’s, which includes a number of highlights and includes time for you to take a cruise on Loch Ness itself.

If you choose to drive yourself, we suggest planning out a route that heads up through Glencoe on the way there, passes along the side of the Loch, and heads back down the A9, and stops at a number of the attractions we mention on the way.

Full List of Suggested Day Trip Tours from Glasgow

To make things easier for you, we’ve put together a list of all the tours we recommend that depart from Glasgow.

• Loch Lomond and Whisky Distillery Visit
• Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle and Whisky Distillery Visit
• Culzean Castle, Burns Country & the Ayrshire Coast
• Outlander Filming locations tour
• A private tour  from Glasgow to Tuillibardine Distillery
• Half day tour  from Glasgow to Falkirk
• Oban, Glencoe, Highland Lochs & Castles tour
• Loch Ness, Glencoe & the Highlands

You can also see all the day trips from Rabbie’s Trail Burners which depart from Glasgow here .

Where to Stay in Glasgow

Glasgow has a wide variety of accommodation options at a good range of prices, and we’ve always enjoyed staying in the city.

We usually recommend for accommodation that you check out Booking.com which lists a large variety of  hotels ,  apartments ,  guesthouses , and  hostels . You can see all their  Glasgow accommodation options here .

We’ve personally stayed at the  Jury’s Inn which was centrally located and great value for money, as well as Native Glasgow , which offers comfortable serviced apartments right in the centre.

You can also take a look at our list of Airbnb alternatives  for more options for your visit!

Further Reading

We’ve lived and travelled in Scotland for a number of years, and have put together a wide range of content to help you plan your trip to this beautiful country. Here are some articles we think you’ll find particularly useful.

• Our guide to things to do in Glasgow , to give you inspiration in the city itself. We also have a guide to the street art of Glasgow .
• Our guide to visiting Loch Lomond from Glasgow
• We also have guides to other cities in Scotland, including Things to do in Edinburgh and Things to do in Aberdeen . Harry Potter fans will also want to read about Harry Potter locations in Edinburgh and Harry Potter filming locations in Scotland !
• If you want to head deeper into the highlands and islands, check out our guide to visiting the Isle of Skye , our Glen Coe photo essay , our comprehensive North Coast 500 Road trip planning guide , and our 5 Day Isle of Skye and Scottish Highlands Itinerary
• We have a detailed guide to visiting Glen Coe which has everything you need to plan your trip
• We also have guide to day trips from other Scottish cities, including the best day trips from Inverness , the best day trips from Edinburgh , and the best day trips from Aberdeen

And that sums up our guide to the best day trips from Glasgow! As always, do let us know your feedback and questions in the comments section below.

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There are 2 comments on this post

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Sandra says

29th March 2021 at 8:11 pm

Thank you so much. Planning a trip to Scotland in the future and your site was most helpful x

Laurence Norah says

30th March 2021 at 11:09 am

My pleasure Sandra – have a wonderful trip and do let us know if you have any questions!

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Home » Travel Guides » United Kingdom » Scotland » 15 Best Day Trips from Glasgow

15 Best Day Trips from Glasgow

Glasgow, Scotland’s second largest city after Edinburgh, long had a reputation as just an industrial sprawl, but recent years have seen it open up to tourism and reinvent itself completely.

Nowadays, the city has a lot to offer visitors, but there’s plenty to see outside of Glasgow too, making it the perfect base to explore the surrounding areas as you head out on day trips.

The nearby highlands are just begging to be discovered, with beautiful, wild scenery that can only be found in Scotland.

There are lochs, glens and high mountain landscapes just a short drive away.

Off the coast lie the Scottish Isles, many just a short boat ride away, while further afield it’s still easy to visit the historic cities of Edinburgh, Stirling and even Dundee to learn more about Scottish history and traditions.

Glasgow is the perfect base to stay for incredible day trips exploring the rest of Scotland and to have some unforgettable adventures in the highlands.

1 . Loch Lomond

Loch Lomond is a long, freshwater lake stretching for over 30 kilometers, but only ever spanning a few kilometers in width.

Loch is the local word for lake, and Loch Lomond is not just one of the most spectacular lakes in Scotland, but in the whole of the UK.

It’s not the lake itself that makes this loch so spectacular, it’s the islands, with around thirty or dotted along its length, a rarity in the British Isles.

Loch Lomond is a center for watersports in the region, offering kayaking, motor boating, and more along its waterways and channels.

Loch Lomond is a Scottish phenomenon and is a mere day trip away from Glasgow.

2. Loch Ness

Loch Ness is probably one of the most infamous places in Scotland.

It’s a good three hours north of Glasgow, high up near Inverness, but an early start and long travel time is worth it to see this legendary place.

There are plenty of companies offering day trips if you don’t fancy making the drive yourself.

It’s the second largest loch in the UK after Loch Lomond, and just as beautiful, but the real reason to visit is the legend of the Loch Ness Monster.

Unconfirmed sightings of this mystical beast have abounded for years, but the only way to find out if it’s real or not is to see Loch Ness for yourself, and muse upon the possibility of this giant beast lurking below the murky waters of Loch Ness.

3. Pitlochry

The Scottish Burgh of Pitlochry is one of the most scenic parts of the country.

Just one and a half hours drive northeast of Glasgow, it is the beginning of the Highlands and the real outdoors of Scotland.

Pitlochry has been a tourist attraction ever since Queen Victoria visited in the mid 19th Century.

She fell in love with it, and since then the village has grown to be a sought after destination, right on the doorstep of Scotland’s wilderness but with all the comforts of home.

Glencoe is a national nature reserve two hours north of Glasgow; this is real Highland Country where clans once ruled and kilts were worn.

A mountainous area popular with hikers and climbers, it is also a marvelously scenic space that can be viewed from afar; in particular, from the main highway which stretches alongside it, making access to this wilderness relatively easy.

Suggested tour : Loch Ness, Glencoe and the Highlands Tour

The small town of Oban is situated directly on the Scottish coast, looking out over the isles far out to sea.

It is a holiday resort first and foremost for good reason: because it is has such incredible surroundings.

The bay that Oban is built on is one of the most spectacular in Scotland and the coastal scenery is unlike anywhere else in the world.

Nearby there are old castles, glens and highland scenery to explore too.

Recommended tour : Oban, Glencoe & West Highland Castles Day Tour

6. Inveraray

Inveraray is famous for its castle; built by the Duke of Argyll in the mid 18th century.

It’s not really a castle as such, but more a huge, landed estate.

For tourists, this is one of the best places to experience Scottish nobility and get a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle they once lived.

Inveraray Castle is more of a large house with a few turrets; a style fashionable at the time of its construction, but hardly a castle in the medieval sense.

It’s in a gorgeous setting and still used by the current Duke of Argyle, who can trace his lineage back to the founders.

7. Kilmarnock

Kilmarnock has two claims to fame: this Scottish town is where Robert Burns, the famous poet, first published his work, and it’s the hometown of Jonnie Walker, the founder of the world famous Jonnie Walker Whiskey line, which was been bottled in Kilmarnock for almost three hundred years.

On top of that, it’s the town where Alexander Fleming, the discoverer of penicillin, was educated, and where the British rock band Biffy Clyro formed.

If that’s not reason enough to visit, then the fact that it’s a quintessential Scottish town with a unique history and heritage should have you on the first train out of Glasgow.

8. Ayrshire Coast

The Ayrshire Coast encompasses Kilmarnock and much more.

This is the countryside where Robert Burns gained the inspiration for his poetry, amongst the rugged cliffs and wild landscape of the southwest Scottish coastline.

There are islands here to explore, villages to meander around, and mile upon mile of coastal hiking paths to walk.

Easy to reach from Glasgow, this is the Scottish coast at its best and most accessible.

Available tour : Culzean Castle, Robert Burns Country & the Ayrshire Coast

9. Culzean Castle

One of the most significant landmarks found on the Ayrshire Coast, and within easy striking distance of Glasgow, is Culzean Castle.

Built over the Firth of Clyde, this castle is perched precariously on a high cliff top.

It is open to the public and offers an insight into Scottish history dating back to the early days of its construction in the late 18th century.

It’s such an iconic castle that it appeared on the reverse of the Scottish five pound note, and is an essential point of interest to visit when coming to Glasgow.

10. Trossachs

The Trossachs are a wild area of forested glens north of Glasgow, where the scenery is rugged and the atmosphere is as Scottish as it gets.

The area is full of lochs and woodland.

It is great for hiking, experiencing the outdoors, and seeing Scottish nature at its gloomiest and most spectacular.

The Trossachs were made famous by the poet Walter Scott when he wrote ‘The Lady on the Lake,’ a haunting piece describing the lochs and scenery that make this place so surreal.

Nothing has changed in the hundred years or so since the poem was first published; the area is still as raw and wild as it ever was.

11. St Andrews

St Andrews is home to the oldest University in Scotland, and is reportedly the city where the game of golf was invented.

Located northeast of Glasgow on the coast above Edinburgh, this is one of the most important places in Scottish history, and a location that plays an integral role in contemporary Scotland too, with its huge and popular University still in action to this day.

In St Andrews there are museums, universities and Scottish history to explore and discover.

Dundee is two hours northeast of Glasgow, and it’s worth the ride just to see the strange statue of Desperate Dan from the British comic books, which takes center stage in the city.

Desperate Dan is Dundee’s hero and the city prides itself on being the home of this comic book character.

More than this though, Dundee has an intriguing nautical history within the British Isles.

There is a museum dedicated to Captain Scott’s Antarctic expedition; just one of many thousands of ships built here during the heyday of boat construction on this Scottish coast.

Located on the River Tay in central Scotland, Perth has been around since ancient times.

It’s known for being the capital of many a Scottish Kingdom; a place where the Scottish Scone granted leadership to kings, and where royalty held court at many points in history.

Today, its importance has lessened in comparison to Edinburgh and Glasgow, but Perth still has a huge amount of history to tempt tourists, as well as a modern cultural scene that’s a bit off the beaten track in comparison to its rival cities.

14. Stirling

Stirling, like Perth, is centrally located in the middle of Scotland, and is where the highlands meet the lowlands.

Just as historically important, Stirling is the birthplace of many Scottish Kings throughout the ages, including King David I.

This is Braveheart territory too.

The Battle of Stirling Bridge took place nearby, and fierce battles were fought in the area during the wars of Scottish Independence led by Robert the Bruce and William Wallace.

If there’s anywhere to visit to gain an understanding of Scottish history, it’s Stirling.

Recommended tour : Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond and Whisky Tour

15. Edinburgh

No trip to Scotland can be complete without a visit to Edinburgh, the nation’s capital and seat of government.

Just an hour away by bus, train or car, Edinburgh is a beautiful, historic city with a huge amount of local culture that is ever growing.

Edinburgh Castle is perched high above the city on volcanic rock, and the market streets below are full of pubs, great food and Scottish daily life.

It’s a great city to visit from Glasgow.

15 Best Day Trips from Glasgow:

• Loch Lomond
• Ayrshire Coast
• Culzean Castle

Roaming Required

21 memorable locations for fantastic day trips from glasgow – by car.

Last updated: 29 July 2023

The gritty industrial powerhouse of Glasgow has a lively cultural scene and is well and truly worth some of your time. However, the true beauty of Scotland, like the bare hills, moors, woods, and the craggy coastline of southwest Scotland is just an hour or two away which makes the idea of day trips from Glasgow a fun one!

The best day trips from Glasgow will involve a car, which allows for more freedom and spontaneity, the ability to change course and head off in almost any direction that takes your fancy.

Discover one, or all, of these incredible locations, less than 2 ½ hours from Glasgow.  Take scenic routes and splendid drives, awe at Loch’s of Lomond and Fyne, visit pristine coastline of Ayrshire along coastal roads to the home of Rabbie Burns – Scotland’s National Bard, discover seaside towns, such as Troon, or head to the historic centre of Stirling for iconic attractions and spectacular views over the rolling countryside.

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Here’s 21 ideas for day trips from Glasgow, from country towns, cities and some fabulous scenic drives; all accessible by car. 

Map – Day Trips from Glasgow

• Day Trips from Glasgow – Red pins
• UNESCO Sites Near Glasgow – Green pins

How To Use This Guide

Driving in Scotland isn’t the same as driving in built up areas. Some ‘main’ roads can be single lane rock-walled country roads, while others are multi-lane motorways. Distance alone cannot indicate how long a journey will take so we’ve also included a conservative estimate of duration (each way) from Glasgow.

Day Trips from Glasgow

1. stirling.

This little university town is a surprisingly big player in the history stakes. Stirling has numerous historic attractions and spectacular scenery, and makes it a fantastic choice from the list of great day trips from Glasgow.

No trip to Stirling is complete without a visit to the Stirling Castle and its hill-top esplanade, the leisure hike to the soaring tower that is the National Wallace Monument on the shoulder of the Abbey Craig, with views of the rolling Ochil Hills.

Don’t Miss:

• Stirling Castle   – commanding spectacular views over the surrounding plains with its walls steeped in plotting and intrigue. The Chapel Royal and it’s handsome frieze dating back to 1628 is worth some of your time. 
• Stirling Jail – tales about the history of crime and punishment at the Old Town Jail.
• The Stirling Arcade  – The imposing facade of this Victorian shopping with beautifully restored period features, and a stunning glass roof which allows light to flood into the Arcade’s central walkway.
• Stirling Bridge  – The location of the victory over the English at the Battle of Stirling Bridge (1297).
• Relive the  Battle of Bannockburn  at the experience centre. 3D technology helps relive the momentous day when king fought king and Robert the Bruce changed the course of Scottish history.
• The Church of the Holy Rude , the second oldest building in Stirling, and the site of the coronation of James VI in 1567, in a ceremony performed by revolutionary theologian John Knox.
• If you happen to be there on the second Saturday of the month you will find  Stirling’s Farmers’ Market . Up to 27 stalls offering an outstanding range of superb local produce as well as beautiful, hand-crafted, Scottish gifts.
• Distance from Glasgow: 26mi (41km)
• Drive time from Glasgow: 30-40 minutes 

Where to Park? 

• Park and Ride: Two bus services run to the City Centre every 12 minutes. 
• Forthside Car Park near the River Forth has affordable all day rates. 

As the seafood capital of Scotland, it is definitely worth trying some locally-caught delicacies from the sea. Take a guided highlights tour of Oban, or simply stroll around the Esplanade to find somewhere for a good meal that suits your budget. Most restaurants have lunch menus available which are often great value.

• McCaig’s Tower – It’s free to enter the most prominent landmark. You’ll be rewarded with spectacular views around the town.
• Dunollie Castle – A lovely one mile walk along the seafront from Oban to the woodlands and castle ruins, to discover what was once a vantage point for the Kings of Dalriada, the Lords of Lorn & of the Clan MacDougall. For insight on the castle & area, take a tour with a local.
• Oban Distillery – one of Scotland’s oldest sources of single malt scotch whisky.
• Bonawe iron furnace – The most complete charcoal-fuelled ironworks in Britain located near Taynuilt.
• Not a natural beauty, but still unique to the area is Cruachan , a power station buried one kilometre below the ground. There’s a new visitor centre covering the history and function of the power station including interactive touch screens.
• Distance from Glasgow: 93mi (150km)
• Drive time from Glasgow: 2 ½ hours

3. Ayrshire Coast

Why not spend a day discovering Scotland’s wind-swept Ayrshire Coast. 

Fans of Scotland’s Bard, Robert (‘Rabbie’) Burns, can revel in a scenic tour through his homeland, soaking up images of the Scottish castles like Culzean Castle, quaint fishing villages, and enchanting wooded areas that inspired the artist’s work. 

• Alloway , Burns’ hometown
• Dunure Castle – with its precarious promontory position 
• Distance from Glasgow: 48mi (77km)
• Drive time from Glasgow: 1 hour

4. St Andrews

The name St Andrews is synonymous around the world as the Home of Golf. As well as golf, St Andrews is a thriving university city, with classic medieval streets and gorgeous traditional architecture which is well and truly enough to keep you occupied for a day.

• Take this walking tour and discover the hidden gems of St Andrews.
• St Andrews Cathedral – once the largest church in Scotland which was turned to rubble in 1559 following the Reformation. For fabulous views over the city, be sure to climb the 100ft (33m) high 12th century St Rule’s Tower, which predates the start of the building of the cathedral itself by about 40 years.
• St Andrews Castle – ruins of the Archbishops of St Andrews, dating in part from the 13th century. 
• Scotland’s Secret Bunker – A 24,000sq feet Cold War command centre disguised as a farmhouse! 
• The Fife Pilgrim Way – one of the main pilgrimages in Medieval Europe, which winds through the ancient Kingdom of Fife. – The final leg departs the pretty village of Ceres and arrives into the centre of St Andrews via a relatively easy woodland walk (allow 5-6 hrs)
• Distance from Glasgow: 73mi (117km)
• Drive time from Glasgow: 1 ¾ hours

5. Rest and Be Thankful – Scenic Drive

If you’re seeking one of those jaw-dropping scenic routes, then this is what you’re looking for. 

At the highest point on the A83, this rest stop provides the perfect place on your day trips from Glasgow to pull over and take in the view, the divide of Glen Kinglas and Glen Croe.

• The stone marker at the entrance to the rest area that was erected to commemorate the completion of this old military road in 1750.
• Distance from Glasgow: 44mi (70km)

6. Inveraray

Considered a gateway to the Highlands & Islands, a trip through the historic town of Inveraray should be on your list for its remarkable Scottish Georgian architecture. Inveraray’s name means mouth of the Aray, the river of the same name which feeds into Loch Fyne, which the town sits on the western shore of.

• The neoclassical church in the town centre, it was built in two parts!
• Inveraray jail and Georgian courthouse which ceased operation in the 1930’s, is now an award-winning museum.
• Climb the bell tower of All Saints Church for panoramic views over the town and loch. It’s also home to the second-heaviest set of ten bells in the world.
• Inveraray Castle – standing on the shores of Loch Fyne this 18th-century Gothic-style home was inspired by sketches from English architect Vanbrugh, of Blenheim Palace and Castle Howard fame. Inside expect dramatic armoury hall, lavish interiors and a tapestry collection. Outside, explore the extensive grounds which contain a number of marked walks, the most strenuous of which rises to the tower atop Dun Na Cuaiche from where there are spectacular views over the castle, town and loch.
• Distance from Glasgow: 59mi (94km)
• Drive time from Glasgow: 1 ½ hour

7. Doune Castle

Explore this 14th century courtyard castle in Doune, home to one of the best preserved great halls in Scotland.

What remains to this day was acquired by ‘Scotland’s uncrowned king’, Robert Stewart, the 1st Duke of Albany and Governor of Scotland in 1361.

It might look familiar, as it’s been used as a filming location for many productions.  The BBC production of Ivanhoe, Monty Python and the Holy Grail, Doune was used as Winterfell in the pilot of Game of Thrones, and more recently it takes a leading role as fictional Castle Leoch in the hit TV series Outlander .

If you’re a fan of Outlander then this option is one that your need to have on your day trips from Glasgow itinerary because there’s nothing better than going to explore the filming locations! This one-day tour is a good choice. And if you’re visiting from Edinburgh this popular full-day Outlander explorer tour will be a good choice.

Only eight miles from Stirling you could easily combine Doune Castle with some of Stirling’s spectacular attractions. 

• The striking 100ft high gatehouse.
• The Castle’s audio guide is narrated by Monty Python’s Terry Jones.
• Head to the battlements for stunning views of the River Teith and Ben Lomond.
• Distance from Glasgow: 34mi (55km)
• Drive time from Glasgow: 40 minutes 

8. Edinburgh

I’ll be honest with you, the Scottish capital deserves more than a day, however if you can’t give it more than that here are a few must-do things to fill your day. 

Start by exploring the Old and New Towns of Edinburgh on foot.  This UNESCO World Heritage Site, also includes the historic Castle dates from the 12th century.

• Palace of Holyrood House – The Queen’s official residence in Edinburgh and the home of Scottish royal history.  Filled with elaborate tapestries and intricate rooms, as a working royal palace, it’s closed to the public throughout the year when the Queen is in residence.  
• Arthur’s Seat – A relatively gentle hike to the top of the extinct volcano that dominates over Edinburgh. 
• Edinburgh Castle – This mighty fortress is one of the oldest fortified places in Europe. It’s home to the Crown jewels and a must for any visitor to Edinburgh.  Skip the queue tickets will save you time.
• The Royal Mile – Take a stroll along this arterial route of Edinburgh’s Old Town, connecting the magnificent Castle, to the Palace of Holyroodhouse with an interlocking series of cobblestone closes with narrow stairways and towering tenements.
• Discover Scottish food in the capital with a 3-hour secret food tour run by a local guide.
• Distance from Glasgow: 46mi (74km)
• Park and Ride : Seven bus services run to the City Centre, some are as frequent as every 5 minutes in peak hour. Five Park and Ride routes offer free parking. 
• Pay & Display/Street parking can cost you as much as £4.60 per hour, consider parking further outside the city and walking in for better rates during the week. Parking at St Margaret’s Loch is free on weekends and on many streets in the city centre. 

Bustling, compact, and beautifully situated on the banks of the River Tay in the east of Scotland, this former Scottish capital is a cosmopolitan gem.

From lively weekend markets, to Georgian townhouses, cobbled streets, and medieval spires sit alongside recreation activities such as golf, watersports , and horse riding, all possible within the city’s boundaries.  

• Scone Palace – Lovers of history will spend an entire day at Scone. Here on the stone of Scone, known as the Stone of Destiny, was the ancient crowning place of Scottish kings, Robert the Bruce, Charles II, and even Macbeth. Historically significant household names like King Charles II, Bonnie Prince Charlie, Mary Queen of Scots, France’s tragic young Queen, Marie Antionette, Queen Victoria all walked these halls at one point or another.  
• River Tay Public Art Trail – Grab a local map and stroll along the walking trail beside the longest river in Scotland which connects a number of outstanding thought-provoking sculptures which draw their inspiration from the river and its wildlife, the city, and its history. (Allow 1 hr)
• Hike Kinnoull Hill – the highest of the five hills and is a Site of Special Scientific Interest. Routes to the top vary from a gentle to a rigorous ramble and reward with sensational views across the River Tay.
• Meikleour Beech Hedge the longest hedge in Britain!
• Drive time from Glasgow: 1 ¼ hours

10. Glencoe

Otherworldly easily describes Glencoe.  Located on the banks of Loch Leven and the mouth of the famous scenic glen, this picturesque locale has featured in films such as Braveheart, Rob Roy, Skyfall, and several of the Harry Potter movies. 

If you’re seeking day trips from Glasgow ideas then this all-day tour is a good option where you can not only visit Glencoe but many other places in the surrounding area.

Marketing itself as an outdoor adventure playground, like New Zealand for the northern hemisphere, Glencoe’s proximity to Lochaber means it’s the perfect base for exploring the area known as the Outdoor Capital of the UK.

• Walkers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts should pack gear for a day in the wilderness. From the Ballachulish Slate Quarries and Loch Leven stroll, to the famous pyramid of Buachaille Etive Mor – the guardian at the entrance to the glen, to the turreted and notorious crests and ridges of the Aonach Eagach. There’s a track for all levels. 
• Take to the water on a SUP, in a sea kayak and open canoe on one of the huge number of rivers, lochs, sea trips on the Great Glen Canoe Trail.
• Distance from Glasgow: 88mi (142km)
• Drive time from Glasgow: 2 ¼ hours

11. Loch Lomond

World famous, the mesmerising loch is the largest expanse of water in the UK. 

Situated in the heart of the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, surrounded by charming villages, rolling hills, and evergreen countryside provide the perfect backdrop to Loch-side activities along the 153km shoreline.

• Take in the scenery with a jaunt around the loch and admire the mighty bulk of Ben Lomond as well as the Arrochar Alps.
• Take to the water in a watercraft of your choice. 2 hour cruise tour , stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), kayak , canoe, jetski, even wind surfing is possible on the loch. 
• Distance from Glasgow: 29mi (46km)
• Drive time from Glasgow: 50 minutes

12. Falkirk 

Falkirk is a town in Scotland’s central belt, located between Edinburgh and Glasgow in the Forth Valley. Be it the heritage trail, family fun days out, or hiring a pedalo on the lagoon, exploring Falkirk has a lot more going for it than you probably realise. We don’t think any list containing day trips from Glasgow ideas is complete without a visit to The Kelpies!

• The Helix – reclaimed parkland providing activities such as walking, water sports and 500km of connected cycle paths. Home to the Kelpies.
• The Kelpies – the world’s largest equine sculptures, standing at 100ft (30m) tall and weighing more than 300 tonnes each
• The Falkirk Wheel – the world’s first and only rotating boat lift. Lifting boats through the air and transferring them between the two canals on the power equivalent to 8 domestic kettles. Visitors can ride on the wheel, and learn more at the free visitor centre.
• The Pineapple – a bizarre fruit-inspired folly built in 1761 by the Earl of Dunmore as a summer house.
• Bo’ness and Kinneil Railway – heritage railway with vintage steam or diesel-hauled trains and also home to Scotland’s largest railway museum
• The UNESCO listed Antonine Wall is also nearby. 
• Distance from Glasgow: 24mi (38km)
• Drive time from Glasgow: 30 minutes

13. Troon Beach

Wanting a day at the beach? If so, then this bustling seaside town in Ayrshire might be just what you’re looking for! Offering long sweeping stretches of sand around the curved bay with a popular esplanade, easy beach access, and spectacular views across to the Isle of Arran. 

• Grabbing an ice cream and watching the waves crash onto the shore.
• Distance from Glasgow: 35mi (56km)

14. Arria Statue  

Not exactly a ‘day out’ but certainly worth a stop as you drive by is Arria, another piece by Andy Scott, the same artist behind The Kelpies. Arria is a 33ft galvanized steel work of art of the female form situated along the A80 at Cumbernauld.

Named after Arria Fadilla, her placement on the main motorway makes Arria an extremely visible landmark designed to help raise the profile of Cumbernauld.

• Stopping in to get a closer look. Skip Google Maps, you’ll get lost. Follow our post about Arria to ensure you make it to where you need to be. She’s illuminated at night and makes a stunning image. 
• Distance from Glasgow: 14mi (22km)
• Drive time from Glasgow: 20 minutes

15. Kilchurn Castle

There are few more scenic castles in Scotland than Kilchurn, built on a small isthmus joined to the shore at the tip of Loch Awe in Argyll, making it one of the most photographed castles in Scotland.

The Campbell clan, who dominated much of western Scotland in the late medieval period, erected a series of castles, Kilchurn being their power base for 150 years. It was abandoned in the 1700s.

If you’re looking to include Kilchurn Castle on day trips from Glasgow list then perhaps this guided tour might be of interest.

• Grab your camera and capture Kilchurn at the head of Loch Awe, with the peak of Ben Cruachan visible.
• The view from the top – climb the tower house’s battlements and gaze out over Loch Awe.
• Distance from Glasgow: 71mi (114km)

16. Rosslyn Chapel

Believe it or not, Rosslyn Chapel was initially made famous by Walter Scott’s ballad, The Lay of the Last Minstrel, published in 1805. 

Some two centuries later, Rosslyn Chapel would be again the subject of public discussion, this time as a prominent location mentioned in Dan Brown’s bestselling novel, The Da Vinci Code.

Prior to The Da Vinci Code, annual visitors to Rosslyn numbered some 40,000, made up of curious roadtrippers, fans of Scott, or perhaps admirers of Turner – who painted the nearby Roslin Castle in 1818 which can be seen at The Tate . 

However it was Brown’s book and blockbuster movie that saved the chapel from ruin. By 2006, the same year the film was released, visitor numbers skyrocketed by 450% to over 175,000. 

Founded in 1446, as the Collegiate Church of St Matthew, Rosslyn Chapel today attracts visitors from far and wide, drawn by the many myths and legends surrounding it and what does and doesn’t lie beneath it. Questions such as is the Rose Line real? Does the Chapel have ties to Freemasonry and the Knights Templar? Have all been asked before, and the answers aren’t necessarily a straight yes, or no. 

A common feature among medieval churches and Rosslyn is no different are carvings of the Green Man ; a carved face with foliage sprouting from his mouth, representing nature’s growth and fertility.

You can combine a visit to Rosslyn Chapel with Stirling Castle and Dunfermline Abbey on this 9 hour day-trip tour

• The Apprentice Pillar – Along with the tale of jealousy surrounding its maker’s fate, look at the vine twirling around the pillar, does it not bear an uncanny resemblance to the double helix, the structure of a DNA molecule? 
• Curious carvings of corn
• Count the carvings of the Green Man – there’s over a hundred! 
• Distance from Glasgow: 50mi (80km)

5 UNESCO Sites Near Glasgow  

• The Antonine Wall
• The Old and New Towns of Edinburgh
• The Forth Bridge
• Kinneil Estate

17. The Antonine Wall

Awe inspiring. A symbol of strength and authority. The Antonine Wall was constructed around 142 AD by the Romans to mark the north-west frontier of their empire. 

The Antonine Wall stretched across central Scotland from Clyde to Forth but wasn’t a stone wall but rather a turf rampart fronted by a deep wide ditch, with forts and fortlets along the wall where troops were stationed. 

See the best surviving stretch of ditch at Watling Lodge in Falkirk, rampart and ditch in Seabegs Wood Bonnybridge and earthworks of the fort at Rough Castle , Bonnybridge. 

18. New Lanark

New Lanark is a restored 18th-century cotton mill village situated in the narrow gorge of the River Clyde. Founded in 1785 by social pioneer Robert Owen who was renowned for his enlightened management of the mill, through the education and welfare of his workers, it became the biggest cotton mill in Scotland and one of the largest factory sites in the world.

• Distance from Glasgow: 30mi (48km)

19. The Forth Bridge

It is considered as a symbol of Scotland, the engineering feat to overcome a natural barrier of a scale and depth of the Forth, the iconic bridge is treasured by the Scots.

It was voted Scotland’s greatest man-made wonder in 2016, beating Edinburgh Castle, the Glenfinnan viaduct and sculptures such as Arria and the Kelpies to mark mark Scotland’s year of innovation, architecture and design in 2016. 

One of the best ways to see the bridge is from the water so a sightseeing cruise is great option and a welcome addition to your growing list of day trips from Glasgow.

• Distance from Glasgow: 47mi (75km)

20. The Old and New Towns of Edinburgh

As discussed above, Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh, is UNESCO listed for its Old and New Towns which form one of the most beautiful cityscapes in the world.

The city’s Old Town has distinctive medieval narrow passageways as a complimenting contrast to the New Town, the best-preserved example of 18th-century Georgian town planning in the UK.

21. Kinneil House

Kinneil House dates back to the 15th century and was once home to the the powerful and wealthy Dukes of Hamilton. Extensive renovations saw it transform into a stately home in the 1660s.

Said to be the best in Scotland, look out for the rare renaissance wall paintings during one of their free tours of the house.

Keep an eye out for the resident ghost, said to be Lady Alice Lilbourne, who fell to her death from one of the building’s top-floor windows.

• Distance from Glasgow: 33mi (53km)
• Drive time from Glasgow: 40 minutes

Final Thoughts

It doesn’t matter if you’re visiting Scotland for the first time or if you’re a regular visitor because there’s just so much to experience that a repeat visit is definitely required. We hope that you have enjoyed this list of 21 places to visit for days trips from Glasgow and we’d LOVE to hear your thoughts if there’s anywhere else that should be included! And when you do visit any of the places on this list then let us know because we want to know all about your trip!

Looking for things to do in Glasgow? These might be of interest

Roma was raised on the white sandy beaches of Australia's East Coast, and she has called London home since 2012. With an adventurous spirit, a love of regional travel and anything food related, Roma looks to encourage working professionals to follow their dreams to travel the world one adventure and short break at a time. Don't let a full-time career stop you from seeing the world. Come roam with us!

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Comments (2)

Nice post and beautiful pictures. but I’m biased, it’s on my doorstep 😆

Thanks Katy, I agree with you, Scotland is a stunning beauty

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Home » Europe » United Kingdom » Scotland » The 15 Perfect Day Trips from Glasgow [2024 Edition]

The 15 Perfect Day Trips from Glasgow [2024 Edition]

Glasgow is the cultural hub of Scotland and is all about great music, vibrant street art and lively local humour. It is well known for its beautiful Victorian and art nouveau architecture. People visit Glasgow not only for history and culture but the infamous nightlife of the city as well. Many others also come here to enjoy the great outdoors as it’s the perfect gateway to Scotland’s countryside.

The best thing about Glasgow is that it’s well connected to Scotland’s most popular attractions. If you’re in the city and craving some adventure, why not hop on a train or bus and go to some of the great places nearby? There’s so many fun things to do and see that are just a day trip away from Glasgow.

Explore the other side of Scotland beyond the city– the beautifulglens, charming villages, stunning lakes, and magnificent ancient castles of the Scottish Highlands. Where ever you choose to go, you’ll be thrilled at the captivating scenery Scotland has to offer. Let’s see what the perfect day trips from Glasgow have to offer.

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Getting Around Glasgow and Beyond

Half-day trips from glasgow, full-day trips from glasgow, final thoughts.

Before starting out any of the day trips, let’s see how we can get out and about around Glasgow in itself. While Glasgow is fairly walkable, it’s still a good idea to know about the public transport options of the city.

Public transport in and around Glasgow is convenient and affordable.

• Bus: Download the First Glasgow bus app and buy day or week bus cards online. Day pass costs 4.60 GBP. Week pass costs 17 GBP.
• Subway: Glasgow is the only city in Scotland with a metro system. Day tickets cost 3 GBP. Week pass costs 14 GBP.
• Taxi: Taxis are not cheap, so we’d advise sticking to public transport which is reliable and safe.
• Bike rental: Use Nextbike Glasgow app to rent a bike. Rentals start from 1 GBP for 30 min.
• Ridesharing: Use the BlaBlaCar app to travel between cities. It’s faster than buses.

Most of the Glasgow day trips involve using the local and intercity trains or buses. The main stations are Glasgow Queen Street and Glasgow Central, from where you’ll find a train or bus to your destination. Make sure your accommodation in Glasgow is near to the bus or train stations.

Short on time, only have a weekend in Glasgow ? No problem! Choose from one of these quick half-day trips to make the most of your short stay in Glasgow.

Campsie Fells

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For a quick escape from the city, head out to one of the most picturesque spots in Scotland and visit the beautiful rolling hills of the Campsie Fells. The scenic landscape, serene pastures and stunning views are the perfect settings for a day out of Glasgow.

Campsie Fells were formed by volcanic intrusion hundreds of millions of years ago. The area is popular among tourists and locals alike with many opportunities for hiking and walking, with its highest point being the “Earl’s Seat” at 578m.  The village of Campsie Glen sits between the hills, surrounded by woodlands and valleys, and is a good starting point for some short and scenic walks.

Interesting places to visit here are the Shrine of Schoenstatt and the curious Lennox Castle Hospital, an eerie abandoned mental hospital. You can also visit the Glengoyne Distillery and sample some delicious whisky, just make sure to get a designated driver back to Glasgow!!

How to get there: 40 min ride by car or taxi.

Loup of Fintry

Get ready to be thrilled as you make this short and sweet half-day trip from Glasgow to this stunning waterfall. The Loup of Fintry lies on the River Endrick, between the Campsie Fells and Fintry Hills.

The water from the 94-feet Loup of Fintry cascades down several levels of rocks and into the valley below. The sight and the sounds are a treat for the senses. It is an ideal place for a picnic – sit on the grass and have lunch with the sound of rushing water in the background. It’s an ideal way to experience some of the landscape Scotland is famous for even if you only have a very limited time here.

“Loup” means “leap” in Scottish. If you visit after a period of snow or heavy rain, you can see the full power of water leaping over the rock’s ledge, which is where the name comes from. The route to the falls is a muddy footpath, so make sure to wear sturdy boots on your adventure.

How to get there: 45 min ride by car or taxi.

The Kelpies and Falkirk Wheel

On this unique half-day trip from Glasgow, you have the opportunity to behold an incredible wonder of art, engineering and design. You’ll be left awestruck by The Kelpies , the largest horse sculptures in the world. Kelpies are mythical horse-like creatures said to inhabit the Scottish lochs. Standing 30m tall and weighing over 300 tonnes, the steel sculptures of the Kelpies are an imposing sight. You can join a tour and even go inside these sculptures.

If that wasn’t enough, another wonder of engineering in the Falkirk Wheel is close by too. The has a one-of-a-kind rotating boatlift that connects two canals on different levels. Both are marvels of the modern world and something a little different for your trip. The Falkirk Wheel is a modern engineering masterpiece and the only one of its kind in the world. You can book a boat tour here and experience the boatlift first hand.

How to get there: 20 min ride. From Glasgow, take a train to Falkirk High.

Suggested Trip: Falkirk Wheel and Kelpies Half-Day Tour

Scotland is a treasure trove of beautiful natural scenery to explore and Glasgow provides the ideal base to plan your excursions from. Just check the weather and gear up with the essentials and off you go on your Scottish adventure. Once you’ve seen all there is to do in Glasgow , spread your wings further and explore the rest of bonnie Scotland!

Loch Lomond and the Highlands

With lush green countryside and the famous Loch Lomond, the largest freshwater lake in Scotland, this is an unforgettable day trip from Glasgow. The Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park is the ideal setting for adventure and nature lovers alike. The scenery here is so beautiful that the park is often called “The Highlands in Miniature.”

There are a host of activities and things to do at Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park. The park has a seemingly endless amount of walking, hiking and biking trails around the lake and through the forests. Hike up Ben Lomond for some breathtaking views of the glens and lochs below, it’s one of the most accessible ‘munros’ (mountain in Scottish) in the country.

Loch Lomond is at the heart of the park. Have a picnic by the lake’s edge or try out some water sports. There are opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, water-skiing, boating and fishing. As we said, ideal for all you outdoorsy types! Doing a day trip here is a great way to see the highlands on a budget as accommodation can be more expensive out here compared to Glasgow.

How to get there: 50 min ride. From Glasgow Queen Street, take a train to Balloch.

Suggested Day Trips:   Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park

Loch Ness and the Scottish Highlands

No trip to Scotland is complete without a visit to Loch Ness. This large and deep freshwater lake in the Scottish Highlands contains more water than all the lakes of England and Wales combined. It is also home to the elusive Loch Ness Monster nicknamed “Nessie”.

Legend has it that Loch Ness has a prehistoric sea serpent lurking beneath its waters. This mythical creature has been reportedly sighted many times since the last century… though some are more dubious than others! Spend the day hunting for Nessie and enjoy the tranquil surroundings of the lake. Visit the Loch Ness Exhibition Centre if you want to learn more about the mysterious Loch Ness Monster .

Wander around the Highlands to see other attractions in the area such as the Urquhart Castle and Fort Augustus.

Stay overnight in Inverness and extend your trip beyond a day to explore more of the area. This perfect Airbnb is close to the river and has cosy pubs and cafes nearby, so you’ll not miss anything!

How to get there: 3 ½ hrs ride. Take a train or bus to Inverness , then a local bus to Loch Ness.

Suggested Trip: Loch Ness Glencoe and Highlands Tour

Stirling and Stirling Castle

For nature, culture and history, take a day trip from Glasgow to Stirling.  Located right in the middle of Scotland, where the highlands meet the lowlands, Stirling is a small town with a rich history being the birthplace of several Scottish Kings and the site of many battles.

Visit the National Wallace Monument – a tower honouring the legendary freedom fighter Sir William Wallace. The movie Braveheart depicted his life. So be sure to shout ‘freeeeedom’ to get the full experience!

Next, visit Stirling Castle, the magnificent medieval castle that had a significant role throughout Scotland’s history. Follow the winding roads up to Stirling Castle’s ramparts, where you’ll have beautiful views of the area. Finish the day with stroll along the cobbled streets of the Old Town below.

How to get there: 30 min. From Glasgow Queen Street, take a train to Stirling.

Suggested Trip : Stirling Castle Tour

Oban and the West Highlands

The colourful town of Oban on the Scottish coast has been a popular holiday resort since Victorian times, and rightly so. The incredible scenery here is unique and completely breathtaking, it’s totally worth taking the time to viist. Oban is the main port that connects Scotland’s West Highlands and Hebrides regions, it’s a gateway to the incredible islands of the country.

Take a boat excursion from Oban to the islands of Staffa and Iona. The views of the beautiful coast of Mull along the way are superb! Oban is the seafood capital of Scotland. Try fresh oysters, prawns or crab for lunch. Explore the Victorian town and its sights. The McCraig’s Tower (oddly looking like the Colosseum of Rome) is a good vantage point for spectacular views of Oban. It’s a climb of 144 steps, but worth it. Remember to hit the beach too, you’ll be forgiven for thinking you’re in the caribean with the white sand beaches… well, apart from the temperature!

How to get there: 3-hour ride. From Glasgow Queen Street, take a train to Oban.

Suggested Trip: Oban and West Highlands Day Trip or Full Day Oban and Glencoe

Edinburgh is just an hour away by train, bus or car and is easily one of our favourite day trips from Glasgow. Scotland’s capital is a beautiful hilly city, with gorgeous landscapes and historic architecture.

Edinburgh Castle dominates the city’s skyline. The New Town below is a neat grid of streets and terraces, while the Old Town has a line of fascinating medieval buildings. Walk on the cobblestone streets as the sound of bagpipes fill the air. After a day exploring, grab a few pints down at the local pubs and rub shoulders with the locals.

Visit the National Galleries of Scotland, home to famous art that includes the works of Da Vinci and Raphael. For those who love Harry Potter, you’ll be delighted exploring every corner of this incredibly city.

There’s so much to do in Edinburgh that we suggest staying back for a day to enjoy the city. This unique hotel in Old Town is perfect for its location and facilities, or try this place , which has an award-winning restaurant and classic dining.

How to get there: 1-hour ride. From Glasgow Queen Street, take a train or bus to Edinburgh.

Outlander Day Tour

Outlander fans gather around! Here is one day trip from Glasgow that will have you visit the famous sites and castles from your favourite TV show.

Visit the 14 th century Doune Castle, the setting for Castle Leoch. It was also used for Winterfell in Game of Thrones and as a filming location in Month Python. Explore this well-preserved fortress for an insight into how Scottish royalty lived in the times gone by.

The picturesque village of Culross starred as Crainesmuir and you’ll love exploring the quaint village and the lovely town square. Next up you’ve got to make a stop at both Blackness Castle and Midhope Castle to marvel at their incredible architecture and history.

Grab a quick lunch at the picturesque village of Falkland. Lastly, visit Linlithgow Palace and take a stroll along the loch, and don’t forget to check out the ruins of Mary Queen of Scots’ birthplace.

How to go there: 40 min ride.

Suggested Trip: Outlander Day tour

Culzean Castle and Country Park

Ayrshire on the west coast of Scotland is a region that offers incredible countryside, outdoor activities, beautiful views of the shores and a taste of island life. Here Scotland’s celebrated poet Robert Burns lived and got the inspiration for his works from these wonderful surroundings.

The Culzean Castle and Country Park are the top highlights of the Ayrshire coast. The park has woodland trails and a lush forest around the sandy coastline. An unbeatable combination for sure! Culzean Castle is perched atop a high cliff and is so iconic it even features on the Scottish five-pound note.

If you venture inside the castle itself you can admire many fine paintings and priceless furniture. Visit the Eisenhower Apartment within the castle – an apartment dedicated to the former US president for his role during WW2. Stop at the castle tea room and indulge in tea and delicious cakes – a classic British pastime!

How to get there: 1-hour ride.

Suggested Trip: Culzean Castle and Ayrshire Coast

Glenfinnan, Mallaig and Glencoe

For a truly relaxing and visually pleasing getaway from the city, take a tour of Glenfinnan, Mallaig and Glencoe. Add in the sights and sounds of the Jacobite steam train (Hogwarts Express, anyone?) making its way through the scenery, and your day is complete. If you’re a photographer then this is definitely the place for you.

Start at Glencoe, a nature reserve with stunning scenery – a good opportunity for some nature photography – keep en eye out for the deer! Particularly popular with hikers, the mountainous area of Glencoe is a visual treat. From here, go further north to Fort William, the home of Scotlands highest mountain. You can also catch the Jacobite steam train operates from here to Mallaig if you want to ride the train itself.

Mallaig is a beautiful little town by the sea with great views over the harbour. Take in the Scottish charm of this port and grab lunch at one of its cosy restaurants. Carry on towards Glenfinnan, where you can catch the Hogwarts Express making its way through the stunning surrounding scenery.

How to get there: 2-hour ride.

Suggested Trip: Glenfinnan, Mallaig and Glencoe Tour

Pitlochry is one of Scotland’s most beautiful and scenic places to visit. It is the ideal escape for a trip in its own right, but it can also be done as a day trip from Glasgow. Pitlochry is one of those places that has something fun happening all year round and is well worth the trip to experience it.

The Victorian town has been popular among tourists ever since Queen Victoria visited and fell in love with it in the 19th century. If it’s good enough for a queen then it’s good enough for us!

There are a lot of things to do and see in Pitlochry to keep you busy. Visit and explore the Blair Athol Distillery, one of the oldest working distilleries in Scotland. Sample their delicious single malt whisky. Walk (or stumble if you’ve had a few too many whiskies) around Queen’s View which overlooks the tranquil Loch Tommel below or go fishing at Loch Tommel itself.

If you’re visiting in Autumn, enjoy the Enchanted Forest, a sound and light show, or check out the Pitlochry Highland Games. The town will keep you entertained for hours, with its good pubs and restaurants, a great shopping scene and outdoor activities.

How to get there: 1 ½ hour ride. From Glasgow, take a train to Pitlochry.

Isle of Arran

The Isle of Arran is nicknamed “Scotland in Miniature”, and rightly so. It has all the bits and pieces of what makes Scotland so amazing but in one neat package! There are impressive mountain peaks, sandy beaches, lush green forests, castles, a scenic coastline and tasty local food and drinks…Whisky of course!

Visit the Arran Distillery and have a taste of their world famous malt whisky. Check out the restaurants and try their cheeses, traditional oatcakes and delicious desserts… or maybe do this before you hit the drink!

Arran also has a variety of outdoor activities to enjoy as well. Grab your binoculars and spot the unique wildlife around the island’s coast. You’ll see eagles, otters, seals and even sharks. Arran is great for hiking and mountain biking, the best places to visit are Brodick Castle and Goat Fell Mountain if that’s your jam.

There’s a dose of history too, it is Scotland after all! On the west side of Arran are the Machrie Moor Stone Circles. Giving off Stonehenge vibes, it is an archaeological site with six huge stones dating to 3500 BC and it’s actually much more enjoyable and less crowded to visit.

How to get there: 2 ½ hour ride. From Glasgow, take a train to Ardrossan Harbor. Then take the ferry to Brodick Isle of Arran Ferry Terminal.

Dundee is a perfect getaway from Glasgow. The city offers many attractions and activities such as good food, shopping and a number of interesting art galleries and design galleries. In fact, it has been named the first UNESCO City of Design of the UK.

Visit V&A Dundee, Scotland’s first design museum that showcases its design heritage along with exhibitions and galleries. Head on to the McManus next, which is Dundee’s main Art Gallery and Museum. This magnificent Victorian building is the heart of Dundee’s art and culture scene and where everything eminates from.

Pop into some of the many quirky cafes, bakeries and restaurants and try their delicious food. The Dundee Cake is a local favourite Scottish fruit cake that you should try whilst you’re in the city. Explore the bars and pubs for a drink or two (or three or four!)

If you’re planning to stay, check out this cosy backpackers hotel . All the major attractions are within walking distance.

How to get there: 1 ½ hour ride. From Glasgow Queen Street, take a train or bus to Dundee.

Kilmarnock is a town with rich cultural history. It is the hometown of Jonnie Walker, the founder of that famous whisky brand known the world over. It’s been bottled in Kilmarnock for hundreds of years and continues to do so to this day. Historically signifcant people and events don’t end there. The famed poet Robert Burns first published his works here and Kilmarnock is also the town where Alexander Flemming, who discovered penicillin, was educated.

Kilmarnock is a classic Scottish town with a fascinating heritage and thankfully makes an easy and fun day trip from Glasgow. It is an eclectic mix of the old and the new. Walk along the cobbled Bank Street, or the John Finnie Street, which has incredible Victorian architecture. Stop by the Dick Institute (stop it you filthy lot!) which features the largest museum and art gallery space in Ayrshire.

The Burns Monument Centre is dedicated to the poet and is an interesting place to visit, especially if you have an interest in literature. Another places not ot miss is the New Laigh Kirk church with its vibrant and colourful stained glass windows.

How to get there: 1-hour min ride. From Glasgow, take a train to Kilmarnock.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Don’t Forget your Glasgow Travel Insurance

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

There’s a lot to do in Glasgow , but there’s a lot more to see and experience out of the city too. It is the perfect base to plan fun excursions to almost every place to visit in Scotland . Whether you choose to see ancient castles or want to relax in a port city, it is just a train or bus ride away from Glasgow.

Our favourite places to visit are Loch Lomond and Loch Ness. There’s something just so breathtaking about the natural wonders of Scotland. As hikers and climbers, the Highlands are our weak spot, with their beautiful and wild scenery. If you’re in Glasgow for a week or more, make a couple of these half-day or full-day trips for the full Scottish experience.

Here are some travel tips for Glasgow:

• The best time to visit is spring (April-May) when there is minimal rain, and October when there’s beautiful autumn foliage. Summer is most popular and gets too crowded. Winters are cold and dark.
• Pack some rain gear , warm layers , walking shoes and hiking equipment, and don’t forget your first aid kit .
• Book your accommodation for Glasgow within walking distance of the train or bus station.
• Guided tours are convenient for far-off places if you don’t have your own transport, but it’s more fun to plan the trips yourself if you can.
• If you’re lost, just ask locals for advice or directions, Glaswegians are the friendliest people ever! You just might need to listen closely to decipher that they’re saying!
• Check out the Scottish Heritage Pass and the Historic Scotland Explorer Pass. These passes include entry to many historical sites and are handy if you plan to visit many of them.

Do let us know which day trips you would like to go on. Bon Voyage!

Made it this far? You get 15% OFF to book a place to stay ! Offer valid exclusively for Broke Backpackers 😉

Sophie Steinebach

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Glasgow Travel Guide

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: February 5, 2024

Our  Glasgow Travel Guide  includes recommended places to visit and things to do, accommodation options, tips and more for this Scottish city. Everything you need to plan your visit and essential reading for any visitor to Glasgow!

Plan your visit to Glasgow

Famous for its architecture, arts scene, culture, sports, shopping, street art, world-class museums, shipbuilding heritage, whisky, Billy Connolly and rich history Glasgow is often overshadowed by the Scottish capital Edinburgh.

However it is a city which has undergone significant regeneration and has emerged as a tourist destination worth including in any Scotland travel itinerary.

In our Glasgow Travel Guide, we cover everything you need to know to plan your visit including what to see, how to get around, best tours and day trips, where to stay plus recommended places to eat and drink.

What you will find in this complete Glasgow Travel Guide

Map of Glasgow

☀️ when is the best time of year to visit glasgow, 📍 what is the best way to explore glasgow, 🚆 by train, 🚗 by car (road trip option), ⭐️ attractions and things to do in glasgow, what to eat & drink, afternoon tea, 🏨 accommodation in glasgow, glasgow travel guide – best tours and day trips, enjoy your visit to glasgow.

Glasgow travel guide – Visiting Glasgow FAQ’s

For warmer days and longer hours of daylight plan to visit Glasgow from June to August. In the winter Scotland is cold and hours of daylight are reduced which can limit the time to sightsee. Spring months from March to May can also be a pleasant time to visit.

Glasgow hosts many sporting, cultural, theatrical and musical events throughout the year (the city is a UNESCO City of Music) Read about events planned in Glasgow for 2022/3.

Read more about the best time to visit the UK in our detailed guide.

Whilst the centre of Glasgow is pretty walkable you will need to use either public transport or a cab to get around to all the sights. It really is too far to walk from the centre to attractions such as the Glasgow Botanical Garden, Kelvingrove Museum or Riverside Museum.

There is a good public bus network and an underground train network too but we found the best way to get around was to take the hop-on hop-off bus.

• Tip – We recommend taking the hop-on hop-off city sightseeing bus around the city. This is a great way to see the highlights and attractions of Glasgow and the most efficient way to travel the city as a visitor.
• We took the bus ourselves during our recent visit to Glasgow and enjoyed the live commentary as we toured the city. It is worth noting that while there are plenty of buses they do get busy, especially during the summer months so start out as early in the day as possible to make the most use of your ticket.
• There are some excellent Glasgow walking tours available including street art focussed.

🚂 What is the best way to travel to Glasgow from London?

Glasgow is around 4 hours 30 mins by direct train from London Euston to Glasgow Central. Click to book tickets with Omio.

The Lowlander service of the Caledonian Sleeper also travels between the two cities. Click to book tickets on the Caledonian Sleeper.

Tip – If this is your first time catching a train in the UK read our complete guide to UK train travel ebook which includes all the information you need to know to make travelling around the UK by rail a relaxing and stress-free experience.

If you are planning a Scottish road trip why not include some time in Glasgow? If you prefer to avoid driving in the city perhaps start your holiday in Glasgow and collect your rental car when you are ready to commence your road trip. We did this recently in Edinburgh and it avoided any issues finding accommodation with parking.

🚗 There are a multitude of car rental companies to choose from in the UK. We recommend comparing prices and deals on Discover Cars  before making your booking.

Popular attractions in Glasgow include:

• The Glasgow Cathedral
• Glasgow Necropolis
• Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
• George Square
• Central Chambers
• Glasgow Botanical Gardens
• Glasgow street art

⭐️ Read more about these landmarks, sights and attractions in our one-day Glasgow itinerary .

🍛 Where to eat in Glasgow

• Chicken Tikka Masala
• Neeps and tatties
• Scottish breakfast
• Cullen Skink
• Deep-fried Mars Bar
• Willow Tea Rooms – Charles Rennie Mackintosh-inspired tearooms & giftshop
• House for an Art Lover – Art Nouveau cafe
• Cranachan Cafe – Princes Square
• Red Bus Bistro – Take a vintage Routemaster bus tour and enjoy afternoon tea as you see the sights!

➡️ More accommodation options in Glasgow

More special stays – Accommodation Guide for Scotland

Glasgow is ideally located to use as a base from which to explore Scotland by train, car or bus. Popular day trips from Glasgow include:

• Loch Ness, Glencoe and Highlands Tour – Discover the magnificent beauty of Loch Lomond National Park, Rannoch Moor, Glencoe, the Great Glen, Loch Ness and Pitlochry on a guided tour from Glasgow. Learn about history and folklore.
• Loch Lomond, Trossachs & Stirling Castle Tour – Explore the land and legends of Scottish heroes William Wallace and Rob Roy and experience the natural beauty of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs on this tour from Glasgow.
• Glenfinnan, Mallaig and Glencoe Adventure Tour – Journey through the rugged Highlands towards Glenfinnan, famous for its viaduct (the Harry Potter bridge). Pass through dramatic Glencoe, see the Hogwarts Express, and spend time in scenic Mallaig.
• Culzean Castle, Robert Burns Country & the Ayrshire Coast – Explore the Ayrshire Coast, the birthplace of Scotland’s national poet, Robert Burns, on this full-day tour from Glasgow. Home to Culzean Castle and romantic countryside, you’ll find the region to be as captivating as described in the poems of Robert Burns.

This guide will have provided inspiration plus practical information to help plan your visit to Glasgow . You will find more inspiration and ideas to help plan your travels around Scotland in these travel guides:

• Things to do in Edinburgh
• Fort William Travel Guide
• Isle of Skye Travel Guide
• Inverness Travel Guide
• Highlands Travel Guide
• Scottish Islands Travel Guide

13 Best Day Trips From Glasgow by Train

Posted on Last updated: July 10, 2024

Home » Destinations » Europe » Scotland » 13 Best Day Trips From Glasgow by Train

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Are you visiting Glasgow but might want to add some day trips to your Scotland itinerary? Check out these amazing day trips from Glasgow by train that are totally worth the effort!

This list of day trips from glasgow by train was written by family travel expert marcie cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

Scotland’s largest city Glasgow is a fantastic place to visit for a day or two thanks to its plethora of museums, parks, and world cuisine. 

But if you’re sticking around for longer than a weekend, there are so many places to visit near Glasgow to make your trip to Scotland even more memorable!

While there are some great day trips from Glasgow by bus, there are few Glasgow day tours as most depart from Edinburgh.

Lucky for you, there are tons of easy and exciting day trips from Glasgow by train!

This guide includes all the best day trips from Glasgow to Highlands, port towns, beach towns, other exciting cities, national parks, and more.

Join our Traveling Europe with Kids Facebook group to get real-time planning advice! JOIN NOW

Day Trip from Glasgow to Edinburgh

Let’s face it, you cannot visit Glasgow without visiting Scotland’s capital! Luckily, day trips from Glasgow to Edinburgh are super easy to take by train.

Essential sights to see are Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, Victoria Street, and the National Museum of Scotland. Walk through Princes Street Garden if it’s a sunny day and climb Calton Hill for sunset before hopping on the train back to Glasgow!

How To Get From Glasgow to Edinburgh by Train

Distance: 47.3 miles

From Glasgow Queen Street station, take a direct ScotRail train to Edinburgh Waverley station. These services take around an hour, but there are longer direct services of around 90 minutes from Glasgow Central too.

Trains depart very frequently, often four times an hour. Return tickets cost around £16.

Glasgow to Loch Lomond Day Trip

Loch Lomond and the Trossachs is one of two Scottish national parks and it’s one of the best day trips from Glasgow. 

Climb Conic Hill (or Ben More if you’re a keen hiker!) for epic countryside views and hire kayaks or sail on the Maid of the Loch to see more of Loch Lomond. It’s the largest lake in Scotland by surface area, so it’s well worth setting!

How To Get From Glasgow to Loch Lomond by Train

Distance: 24.9 miles

From Glasgow Queen Street station, hop on a direct ScotRail train to Balloch station. This train takes less than 60 minutes and departs approximately every 30 minutes. Return tickets cost around £7.

Day Trip from Glasgow to Ayr

Ayr is one of the most underrated day trips from Glasgow by train. It’s quick and easy to navigate with high rewards. 

There’s a small neighborhood called Alloway which is the birthplace of world-renowned Scottish poet Robert Burns. Stroll along the Poet’s Path which connects the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum with the Burns Cottage (where he was born) and the Burns Memorial Gardens.

You can also visit places mentioned in his poems like Alloway Auld Kirk which means ‘old church’ and Brig O’ Doon, which means ‘Bridge over the River Doon’.

How To Get From Glasgow to Ayr by Train

Distance: 37.2 miles

From Glasgow Central station, catch a ScotRail train to Prestwick station which takes about 45 minutes. Then, catch a connecting service to Ayr station which should take no longer than 10 minutes. 

Trains with a connection depart approximately every half an hour and return tickets cost an average of £12.

Glasgow to Oban Day Trip

Taking day trips from Glasgow by train isn’t the quickest way to explore the Highlands, but it’s easy. Plus, you can avoid renting a car and driving along Scotland’s narrow country lanes!

Oban is a scenic port town on Scotland’s west coast. You can visit Oban Distillery, a 19th-century stone tower on top of Battery Hill, and enjoy beautiful views across the water to the Isle of Kerrera.

How To Get From Glasgow to Oban by Train

Distance: 96.5 miles

From Glasgow Queen Street station, take a direct ScotRail service to Oban station. While these trains can take three hours, they’re direct and you can have incredible views! 

These services depart approximately every 90 minutes and the cost of a single ticket starts from £17.

Day Trip from Glasgow to Stirling

One of the easiest, quickest, and best places to take Glasgow day trips is Stirling.

This city sits at the top of the Firth of Forth. One of the top places to visit is Stirling Castle , an important 12th-century former palace that sits on a rocky outcrop overlooking the city.

Another top place to visit in Stirling is the National Wallace Monument. This tower is dedicated to Sir William Wallace, one of the leaders of the First War of Scottish Independence, which also offers stunning views.

How To Get From Glasgow to Stirling by Train

Distance: 27 miles

From Glasgow Queen Street station, catch a direct ScotRail service to Stirling station. These trains take around 30 – 40 minutes and depart every 10 – 15 minutes. Return tickets cost from £10.

Glasgow to Gretna Green Day Trip

Gretna Green is a town on the English border famous for weddings between runaway English couples in the 18th century. Whereas couples under 21 couldn’t get married without their parents’ consent, they could in Scotland.

Gretna Green’s famous Blacksmith shop which hosted these elopements is now a museum. This romantic town makes for one of the best underrated day trips from Glasgow, Scotland for couples.

How To Get From Glasgow to Gretna Green by Train

Distance: 86.9 miles

From Glasgow Central , take an Avanti West Coast service to Carlisle station which takes around 75 minutes. Then, take a connecting ScotRail train to Gretna Green station which takes around 15 minutes. 

Return tickets start from around £20 and approximately 15 trains travel along this route every day.

Day Trip from Glasgow to the Isle of Bute

Yes, you can even visit an island on your one-day trip from Glasgow by train! Granted, you’ll have to team your train journey with a ferry ride, but it’s totally doable.

Rothesay is a beautiful town on the Isle of Bute. Visit Rothesay Castle, climb up Canada Hill, and visit the eclectic Rothesay Victorian Toilet Museum. You won’t forget a day trip like this in a hurry.

How To Get From Glasgow to the Isle of Bute by Train

Distance: 39.6 miles

From Glasgow Central station, hop on a direct ScotRail service to Wemyss Bay station which takes around 50 minutes. Then, jump on a ferry from Wemyss Bay port right next to the station to Rothesay Ferry Terminal on the Isle of Bute which takes 35 minutes.

Return train tickets start from around £10 and return ferry tickets cost £7.60. Trains and connecting ferries depart approximately once per hour.

Day Trip from Glasgow to the Isle of Arran

The Isle of Bute isn’t the only day trip from Glasgow you can take without a car. The Isle of Arran is the southernmost Scottish isle and many say it’s like visiting the entire country of Scotland in miniature.

Visit the stunning Blue Pools of Glen Rosa, check out Brodick Castle and Garden and, if you have time, climb up Goatfell Hill. It’s the island’s highest peak so it’s not an easy hike. Make sure you descend with plenty of time to catch your return ferry!

How To Get From Glasgow to the Isle of Arran by Train

Distance: 46.9 miles

From Glasgow Central station, catch a direct ScotRail service to Ardrossan Harbour station which takes around 50 minutes. Then, take the ferry to Brodick port on the Isle of Arran which takes around 55 minutes. 

Return train tickets start from around £10 and return ferry tickets cost £8.40. Trains with connecting ferries depart approximately once every two hours, so book in advance!

Glasgow to Dundee Day Trip

While Dundee isn’t the most popular of day trips from Glasgow, there are lots of reasons to visit. Dundee was an industrial city but today there are lots of museums, art galleries, and other cultural attractions. 

Check out the stunning V&A Museum or visit The McManus Art Gallery displaying 19th and 20th century Scottish art. 

Or, head to the waterfront and board the HMS Unicorn or the RSS Discovery. The latter was the ship that sailed on the British Antarctic expedition of 1901 and it’s been fully restored.

How To Get From Glasgow to Dundee by Train

Distance: 81.3 miles

From Glasgow Queen Street station, take a direct ScotRail service to Dundee station. Trains depart every 30 minutes and take around 90 minutes. Return tickets cost an average of £22. 

Glasgow to St Andrews Day Trip

St Andrews is a famous city on Scotland’s west coast known as the birthplace of golf. But there are lots of other things to do here on a day trip from Glasgow!

Check out the University of St Andrews, the Castle of St Andrews, the harbor, and West Sands Beach. This is the famous beach that appeared in the Oscar-winning movie Chariots of Fire , so don’t forget to pack your running shoes.

How To Get From Glasgow to St Andrews by Train

Distance: 73.4 miles

From Glasgow Queen Street station, hop on a ScotRail service either to Dundee station or Edinburgh Haymarket station. From either station, take a connecting service to Leuchars station. Hop on the N.99 bus from the station to St Andrews Bus Station . 

This journey should take around two hours in total and trains depart approximately twice an hour. Return train tickets cost around £25 on average and bus tickets cost between £2 – £4 for single journeys which you can buy from the driver.

Day Trip from Glasgow to Linlithgow

Linlithgow might be a small town, but it’s easy to reach from Glasgow and it’s packed with history.

One of the top sites to visit in Linlithgow is its 15th-century palace. Once the main residence of Scottish kings and queens, Linlithgow Palace was the birthplace of Mary, Queen of Scots. 

More recently, it stood in for Wentworth Prison in the Outlander TV series!

How To Get From Glasgow to Linlithgow by Train

Distance: 34.1 miles

From Glasgow Queen Street station, catch a direct ScotRail service to Linlithgow station. This journey only takes 30 minutes and trains depart every 30 minutes too. Return tickets cost, on average, £12.50.

Glasgow to Troon Day Trip

Visiting Glasgow in summer? If you travel during a rare heatwave, you might want to enjoy a day at the beach. One of the best beach towns to visit near Glasgow is Troon.

Troon Beach is a 2.8-mile beach popular with kite surfers and windsurfers. If it’s too cold to swim in the sea, wrap up warm and walk along the scenic Troon Beach Walk Trail. 

How To Get From Glasgow to Troon by Train

Distance: 32.7 miles

From Glasgow Central station, take a direct ScotRail service to Troon station. Trains traveling on this service depart every 30 minutes and take approximately 40 minutes. Return tickets cost an average of £10.

Day Trip from Glasgow to Falkirk

While Falkirk city center might not be the best place to spend your precious time in Scotland, it does have two fantastic attractions nearby. They’re well worth getting a bus or taxi from the train station to visit!

The Kelpies are a pair of 100 ft-tall steel horses from Scottish mythology that were built in 2013. They’re cool to see up close and the park setting is also beautiful.

If you appreciate incredible feats of engineering, visit The Falkirk Wheel. It’s the world’s only rotating boat lift and helps transport canal boats from the Forth and Clyde Canal to the Union Canal. 

How To Get From Glasgow to Falkirk by Train

Distance: 24.3 miles

From Glasgow Queen Street station, hop on a direct ScotRail service to Falkirk High station. Trains depart two to three times an hour and the journey takes less than 30 minutes. 

Return tickets start from around £11 and you may need to catch a bus or take a taxi into the city center.

Glasgow Day Trips FAQs

How do i plan a day trip to the scottish highlands from glasgow.

For a trip to the Highlands, consider destinations like Fort William or Oban, which are accessible by train. These journeys offer stunning views and a gateway to the wider Highlands. Check train times and plan for an early start as these can be longer trips.

Can you recommend any castle visits near Glasgow?

Besides Stirling Castle, you can visit Doune Castle, famous for its appearances in film and television, by train and a short bus ride. Bothwell Castle is another option, accessible by train to Uddingston and a short walk or bus ride.

Are there any good coastal day trips from Glasgow by train?

Yes, the coastal town of Ayr is a great option for a day trip, offering beautiful beaches and the birthplace of Robert Burns. Troon and Largs are also excellent choices for coastal scenery and seafront walks.

What’s the easiest way to check train times and prices for day trips from Glasgow?

The ScotRail website or the National Rail Enquiries website are reliable sources for checking train times and prices. The Trainline app is also useful for planning journeys and buying tickets.

How much do train day trips from Glasgow typically cost?

Prices vary depending on the destination and how far in advance you book. Traveling off-peak can reduce costs, and rail passes or group tickets might offer additional savings for frequent travelers or families.

Is it possible to visit the Isle of Arran for a day trip from Glasgow?

Yes, it’s possible. You can take a train to Ardrossan Harbour and then a ferry to the Isle of Arran. While doable in a day, starting early to maximize your time on the island is advisable.

Can I do a day trip to Edinburgh from Glasgow by train?

Absolutely, Edinburgh is only about an hour away by train, making it a perfect day trip. Trains run frequently between the two cities, allowing for flexible planning.

Best Day Trips From Glasgow by Train Wrap-Up

Whether you want to visit the beach or lesser-traveled cities, there are some great day trips from Glasgow by train.

While there are more options for day trips from Glasgow by car, renting a car is much more hassle. Not to mention the stress of learning to drive on the left and driving a stick shift for just one day!

Train travel is a great way to explore Scotland like a local and enjoy a fun and easy Glasgow day trip.

Looking for more Scotland travel resources? Check out 13 Best Day Trips From Edinburgh by Train , Planning a Trip to Scotland: Step-by-Step Guide , 13 Must-Read Scotland Travel Tips for First-Timers , How to Spend 4 Days in the Scotland Highlands , and 9 Best Edinburgh Hotels for Families Worth Booking !

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11 Best Road Trips From Glasgow

February 21, 2024

Despite being the most populated city in Scotland, Glasgow is often overlooked in favor of Edinburgh.

But it shouldn’t be.

It’s friendly, fun and interesting, and it’s a great base for exploring loads of stuff… including some excellent engine-revving road trips.

So in this guide… as you’ve probably worked out by now… I’ve brought you the 11 best road trips from Glasgow .

Buckle up, switch on that engine, and get yourself along for the ride!

1. Glasgow to Edinburgh

2. glasgow to perth, 3. glasgow to tyndrum, 4. the isle of arran circular, 5. glasgow to oban, 6. glasgow to portpatrick, 7. glasgow to campbeltown, 8. glasgow to newcastle (via hadrian’s wall), 9. glasgow to grantown-on-spey, 10. glasgow to aberdeen, 11. glasgow to newcastle (along the coast), before you go, best road trips from glasgow: beautiful journeys you can’t miss.

Here is the map of the best road trips from Glasgow. You’ll notice that I didn’t include the last one (Glasgow to Newcastle, along the coast). That’s simply because Google Maps doesn’t allow more than 10 layers on the map… I know, silly.

But nevertheless, it’s an easy route to drive, just follow my instructions in the road-trip section below.

This map has all the road trips together, which is not convenient as the map will be cluttered. But fortunately, you can hide the routes and only keep one activated at a time. To do that, click on the little icon in the top left corner, and in the panel that just opened, you can deselect the routes you want to hide.

A little note before we begin. For each trip, I’ve suggested how long you should spend on it. This doesn’t mean how fast you can complete each route without any breaks (but you can do that if you have a tight schedule) . Rather, it means how much time you need to visit all the attractions, have some rest stops, and have a good time on the road trip (not just hurry through it) . Have fun!

This route takes you between the two biggest cities in Scotland (and let’s face it—when you’re in Glasgow, there’s a pretty good chance you’ll want to see Edinburgh ) .

But if you drive the quickest, most direct route, you won’t see anything apart from the boring mundanities of a massive highway.

So here’s a good alternative option that doesn’t involve too many detours: drive east past Seven Lochs Wetland Park and Drumpellier Country Park, before then riding through Bonnybridge, Falkirk and Linlithgow.

It can be difficult to find beauty in this densely-populated part of Scotland… but that’s exactly what this route offers. You’ll see natural stuff, heritage sites, and some nice little towns and villages. Make sure you stop off at both the Kelpies and Linlithgow Palace , two of the most famous places in this part of Scotland.

If you want to shuttle between two cities without enduring the banalities of a boring ride, this is one of the best road trips from Glasgow. It’s a much better option than the unimaginative route most people choose.

Route Details

• Distance: 50 miles/80km
• Time: 2-5 hours
• Itinerary: Glasgow – Bonnybridge – Falkirk – Linlithgow – Edinburgh
• Highlights: Linlithgow Palace, the strange horse heads of the Kelpies, some tucked-away pockets of city-center rurality, a fun way of driving between Glasgow and Edinburgh, and arriving in Edinburgh itself 

Once you’re there

What to Do in Edinburgh : Because it’s the capital of Scotland, there’s plenty to do in Edinburgh. The two biggest must-visits are Edinburgh Castle and Arthur’s Seat , but you should also check out the Royal Mile, the watery shores of Leith, and all of the city’s great day trips .

🏠 Where to Stay in Edinburgh : There are (of course!) a huge number of accommodation options in Edinburgh . To avoid the subpar places, we recommend either Royal Mile Backpackers an excellent budget hostel, or Ibis South Bridge for affordable mid-range luxury right in the heart of the city.

Another populated ride, this is one of the best road trips from Glasgow if you want to visit some pretty big places along the way.

Your first stop should be Stirling, one of Scotland’s prettiest cities. Here, you’ll want to check out the Battle of Bannockburn Experience , and the clifftop behemoth of Stirling Castle .

After Stirling, stop in very-nearby Bridge of Allan, one of my favorite towns in Scotland. There’s not a load to do here, but it’s a nice place for a wander… and the Hideaway Cafe is a great place for brunch.

If you like golf, Gleneagles should be your next stop. If you don’t, Gleneagles is still a pretty place to be, but you might prefer to push straight onto Perth instead.

Other good stops along the entire route include Doune Castle, Ardoch Roman Fort, the Arria Statue (just outside of Glasgow) , and Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park . This safari park is full of endless exotic animals, and it’s a great choice if you’re traveling with kids. Another good en-route kid-friendly option is World of Wings , with all its falcons, hawks and owls.

• Distance: 62 miles/100km
• Time: 2-6 hours 
• Itinerary: Glasgow – Stirling – Bridge of Allan – Gleneagles – Perth
• Highlights: Stirling Castle, pretty Bridge of Allan, Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park, playing some golf in Gleneagles, and exploring Perth when you’re done

What to Do in Perth : Perth is a great place to visit, and not enough tourists come here. Check out the excellent Black Watch Castle & Museum , the hike-packed Kinnoull Hill Woodland Park, and the family-friendly stately home of Scone Palace . And if you have more time, wander along some stretches of the North Muirton Riverside Path.

🏠 Where to Stay in Perth : Auld Manse Guest House is an excellent (and classy) bed & breakfast option, while The Broch is perfect if you’re looking for your own comfortable apartment.

This ride takes you through Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park (the most famous national park in Scotland) .

There are lots of ways to explore the park on a road trip. But one of the most common routes (and the route I’m recommending here) is this…

First, you want to head west to Balloch. From here, drive along the western shores of mega-famous Loch Lomond, and you’ll reach Ardlui. You then keep heading north and west, and you’ll hit charming Tyndrum.

Make sure you give yourself enough time to appreciate this one—it might be short, but this ride has plenty crammed into its confines.

Along the way, there are a huge number of (famous and not-quite-so-famous) highlights. They include Inchmoan Island (make sure you visit the place on a boat trip) , the falcon-packed Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Center , the pretty village of Tarbet, the quiet shores of beautiful Culag Beach, and the Ben Lomond viewpoint at Firkin Point.

Of course, this is also a great option if you want to hit some en-route hikes. The national park is home to loads of beautiful but relatively-easy wanders. To get started, I recommend Ben Vorlich , The Cobbler , and Beinn Ime .

• Distance: 65 miles/105km
• Time: 3-7 days
• Itinerary: Glasgow – Balloch – Tarbet – Ardlui – Tyndrum
• Highlights: All the excellent en-route hikes, wandering up to the strange summit of The Cobbler, the picnic spots on the western banks of Loch Lomond, and seeing lots of Scotland’s most famous national park 

What to Do in Tyndrum : Munch on some fish and chips at the taste-packed Real Food Cafe , visit both Lochan na Bi and Loch Tulla, and check out the timeless charm of Green Welly service station . And if you’re traveling with kids, wander along the forested fun of the Tyndrum Gruffalo Trail.

🏠 Where to Stay in Tyndrum : The best bed and breakfast in the little village is warm and welcoming Clifton Cottage . For an actual hotel, head to the old-school Muthu Ben Doran Hotel instead.

Pretty close to Glasgow, you have the Isle of Arran , which sits just off the nation’s west coast.

Famously known as ‘Scotland in miniature,’ it’s brimming with all the sorts of stuff that makes Scotland so famous… but all sitting on the small (and convenient!) dimensions of a tiny island.

But here’s where things get even better: because Arran has a circular road running all the way around its perimeter, it’s perfect for a road trip. Most of the island’s highlights are situated on and around the road, making it an excellent way to tick off all the best places.

If you’re the type of anal person who likes ‘completing’ the entirety of wherever you visit, you’ll think this is one of the best road trips from Glasgow.

The must-stop-at highlights include the village of Blackwaterfoot , the free-roaming deer at Lochranza, the walk between Lochranza and Sannox , the archeological oddity of the Machrie Moor Standing Stones , cliffy Drumadoon Point, and taking a boat trip to the Holy Isle (a strange little place with a Buddhist community) .

And as a sweet little bonus, you get to take your car on a ferry as part of your trip (but make sure you book in advance) .

• Distance: 90 miles/145km
• Itinerary: Glasgow – Ardrossan – Brodick – Lochranza – Blackwaterfoot – Whiting Bay … and back to Brodick
• Highlights: Blackwaterfoot, Brodick, hiking up Goatfell, exploring the valley of Glen Rosa, a trip to the Holy Isle, the deer at Lochranza, and seeing pretty much the entirety of one excellent island 

What to Do in Brodick : By the time you (re-)reach Brodick, you’ll already have explored most of Arran. Now, you should attack the area around the town, including Brodick Castle , the summit of Goatfell , lovely Glen Rosa, and all the places to eat and drink. My favorite Brodick chow-down spot is unpretentious Crofters , with great food and live music.

🏠 Where to Stay in Brodick : You should stay in Brodick. If you like upmarket and expensive, you’ll love Auchrannie Resort . But if you prefer fuss-free and no-frills, stay in Shore Lodge instead.

I absolutely love Oban. One of the prettiest coastal towns in Scotland, it offers a pretty port, some magical sunsets, and loads of colorful architecture.

To get things started for your drive here, you want to ride to Tydnrum, on the route we’ve already outlined earlier in this guide.

From Tyndrum, you’ll be heading west to Oban. On this short but fun-packed stretch, you’ll pass the northern shores of Loch Awe, the outrageously photographable ruins of Kilchurn Castle , and the chance to clamber up Ben Cruachan . If you only want to do one hike along this part of the route, that’s the one I recommend.

You finish this route along the coastal approach to Oban, which is super pretty. Along the way, stop at both the village of Connel, and at Ganavan Sands, a quiet but beautiful sandy beach. It’s one of my favorite beaches in Scotland. And if you’re interested in learning about sea life, head to the nearby Ocean Explorer Center .

If you want a brilliant finale, this is one of the best road trips from Glasgow—it’s impossible not to fall in love with Oban. You’ll want to hang around in the place forever.

• Distance: 99 miles/159km
• Itinerary: Glasgow – Balloch – Tyndrum – Lochawe – Connel – Oban
• Highlights: Exploring Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, driving along Loch Lomond, lots of great hikes, climbing up Ben Cruachan, and the excellent final at the pretty port of Oban 

What to Do in Oban : First up, you should wander around the harbor. From here, you get great views of the town and the water, and lots of photogenic spots. For a little more adventure, head to the Puffin Dive Center , and stroll to the lovely panoramas of Dunollie Point. And if you’re not on a tight schedule, sail to the Isle of Mull.

🏠 Where to Stay in Oban : The Scot is a modern and trendy pub with comfortable rooms and a decent breakfast. If you’re on a budget, you should choose Oban Youth Hostel , which offers a great location and lots of friendly travelers.

Because some of Scotland’s other coastlines are so ridiculously beautiful, this area is often overlooked.

But for avoiding other tourists and seeing some of Scotland’s best under-the-radar shores, this is one of the best road trips from Glasgow. It’s also a good choice if you’re traveling with kids—there are lots of family-friendly beaches, coastal settlements (Stranraer and Girvan are both great for kids) , and endless places to munch on ice cream and fish and chips.

And on top of that, there are great family attractions along the way, including Agnew Park , Heads Of Ayr Farm Park , and the strange confines of Snib’s Cave .

When you leave Glasgow, you should follow the M77 and A77 to Ayr. After Ayr, follow the coastline all the way south until you reach Portpatrick .

Other en-route highlights include Culzean Castle , Turnberry Lighthouse, and the northern part of Portpatrick’s peninsula. And if you have lots of time to spare, you can make a big detour once you reach Cairnryan (which is only 14 miles/22km from Portpatrick) . From here, it’s possible to catch a ferry to Belfast, and explore lots of Northern Ireland.

• Distance: 100 miles/160km
• Time: 3-5 days
• Itinerary: Glasgow – Ayr – Girvan – Stranraer – Portpatrick
• Highlights: Girvan, Stranraer, Ballantrae Beach, lots of family-friendly stuff, your optional ferry trip to Northern Ireland, and the excellent finale of charming Portpatrick 

What to Do in Portpatrick : Have a wander around the charming harbor, visit the clifftop beauty of Dunskey Castle , and gobble on some hearty fayre at the quirky Port Pantry. And if you’re not running short on time, head slightly further south to pretty Port Logan.

🏠 Where to Stay in Portpatrick : For no-frills and affordable, you’ll love the welcoming Harbor House Sea Front Hotel . But if you’re looking for something a little more classy and refined, The Portpatrick Hotel is for you.

Before we drive off on this ride, here’s a quick introduction to our unusual destination: Campbeltown is situated on the strange Kintyre Peninsula, which curves around from the mainland, and to the west of the Isle of Arran. So although Campbeltown is west of an island, it’s still on the mainland. Bizarre!

Anyway, if you want to get to Campbeltown from Glasgow, you first head to Arrochar, on the western banks of Loch Lomond… and you’ll pass all the en-route highlights we’ve already mentioned.

You then head southwest, and along the shores of Loch Fyne. During this stretch, you’ll pass Inveraray, Inveraray Castle , Minard Castle , and lots of lovely views of the loch.

When you reach the pretty little canalside village of Lochgilphead, keep heading south on the A83, and you’ll eventually hit Campbeltown. During this stretch, some highlights include the cute harborside village of Tarbet, an optional boat trip to the community-owned Isle of Gigha , and the quiet sands of Westport Beach.

Though the vast majority of this route is a waterside adventure, it’s still massively varied. You pass several lochs, loads of shoreside villages, and some stretches of the Irish Sea. For sheer variety, this is absolutely one of the best road trips from Glasgow.

• Distance: 140 miles/225km
• Time: 5-7 days 
• Itinerary: Glasgow – Balloch – Arrochar – Inveraray – Lochgilphead – Campbeltown
• Highlights: Riding along the banks of Loch Lomond and Loch Fyne, the villages of Lochgilphead and Tarbet, venturing over to the Isle of Gigha, exploring a strange peninsula, and even more remote adventures once you reach Campbeltown

What to Do in Campbeltown : Check out Davaar Lighthouse, the busy fishing port, and the stroll along to Kildalloig Bay Beach. Because it’s pretty remote, Campbeltown is also great for further outdoor adventures; make sure you head to the village of Southend, the atmospheric Mull of Kintyre Lighthouse, and the Machrihanish Seabird Observatory . But any wander south of the town is great.

🏠 Where to Stay in Campbeltown : Pub-based Argyll Arms Hotel is the best laid-back accommodation in Campbeltown. If you want to treat yourself to something a little more classy, you’ll prefer the mega-comfortable splendor of The Royal Hotel .

For history and heritage, this is one of the best road trips from Glasgow.

Hadrian’s Wall was a big Roman frontier that was built back in AD122. It was designed to keep the northern barbarians out of Roman territory. Some parts of the wall still remain, and it’s one of the most significant and important Roman relics in the region.

But aside from all the history, the area around the wall is great for hikes, bike rides, and lots of beautiful views.

Anyway, you’ll first drive from Glasgow to Carlise, riding south along the A74(M). On this stretch, stop at the hill-backed village of Abingdon (where you’ll find more Roman stuff) , the popular market town of Moffat , and pretty little Gretna Green (which was once an epicenter for elopement) .

After you hit Carlisle, you’ll then head east on the A69—and this is where all the Hadrian’s history begins. Here, you’ll find lots of ruins, relics, milecastles, stretches of the wall, and endless places to hike and cycle. If you only tackle one walk, make it the circular route taking in both Housesteads and Steel Rigg .

Apart from all the outdoor stuff, make sure you also visit the Northumbrian towns of Corbridge, Hexham and Haltwhistle.

• Distance: 155 miles/250km
• Time: 3-5 days 
• Itinerary: Glasgow – Moffat – Carlisle – Haltwhistle – Hexham – Newcastle 
• Highlights: All of the Hadrian’s Wall stuff, excellent hikes in rural Northumberland, the borderlands of Scotland, the pretty town of Moffat, and visiting one of England’s most underrated cities 

What to Do in Newcastle : First, hit the city’s highlights: the Ouseburn, the riverside, and some football at St James’ Park (when I say ‘football,’ I’m referring to the sport that some people inaccurately call ‘soccer’) . After that, slink off to the coast for some brilliant beaches and towns—visit Tynemouth, Whitley Bay and Cullercoats, then continue further north if you have time.

🏠 Where to Stay in Newcastle : For backpackers on a budget, the excellent YHA Newcastle is new, modern and much more upmarket than most other hostels. If you’re instead hunting for a hotel, I recommend Motel One Newcastle .

The second half of this ride takes you along the so-called ‘ Snow Roads Scenic Route ,’ which runs through Cairngorms National Park from Blairgowrie to Grantown-on-Spey. This official 90-mile (145km) adventure is a switchback-packed odyssey featuring some of the loftiest roads in Scotland.

The route gets its name because these vertiginous roads are usually the first in Scotland to receive snowfall. Because they’re perched so high, you get a huge number of incredible panoramas, lots of exciting passes, and some official so-called ‘photo stops.’

Yeah, the views along this route are great. But the driving itself is also super fun, as you navigate the tricky challenges of tight turns, terrifying drops, and lots of uphill struggles. In terms of actual fun driving, this is one of the best road trips from Glasgow.

It’s also a good route for finding hikes. Some of the best en-route wanders include the trail around Loch Muick , walks west out of Braemar along the River Dee, and adventuring around the excellent sparsity of the Ladder Hills .

The section between Glasgow and Blairgowrie is also pretty good, with lots of stuff we’ve already covered. Check out the busy settlements of Falkirk, Stirling and Perth before all the rural stuff begins.

• Distance: 175 miles/282km
• Time: 4-7 days
• Itinerary: Glasgow – Stirling – Perth – Blairgowrie – Braemar – Ballater – Grantown-on-Spey
• Highlights: Stirling, Perth, Braemar, Ballater, some of the loftiest roads in Scotland, the vertiginous Cairnwell Pass (the highest point along the route) , lots of excellent hiking, and exploring the eastern side of the Cairngorms

What to Do in Grantown-on-Spey : Wander through Anagach Woods, eat at the cute and cozy KJ’s Bothy Bakery, and head east to the strange and fun-filled Ballindalloch Castle and Gardens . And if you have more time, head north to both Inverness and Lossiemouth (which is one of the nicest and most welcoming coastal towns in Scotland ) .

🏠 Where to Stay in Grantown-on-Spey : The lovely Speyside Hotel is large and luxurious, while The Garth Hotel offers an interesting fusion of traditional pub-style welcomes along with excellent modern food.

If you want to visit an underrated city, I totally recommend riding to Aberdeen. Most Scottish tourists completely overlook the place, but they absolutely shouldn’t.

Obviously, the ride there is pretty good too (which is why I’ve included it in this guide) … and it’s an especially-excellent choice if you’re traveling with kids. Most of the route runs completely along the coast, and it brings you to popular beaches, family-full seaside settlements, and lots of kid-friendly attractions.

To get there, you should first ride to Edinburgh, on the route we’ve already mentioned. From here, follow the coast as tightly as you can, all the way to Aberdeen.

First up, you should stop at Kinghorn , Aberdour Beach, harborside Pittenweem, both Anstruther and Crail ( tackle the walk between them if you can ) , and St Andrews.

Spend a day or two exploring St Andrews and its surroundings, then move on for further adventures. During this part of your drive, visit the town of Carnoustie (along with its excellent beach) , the clifftop ruins of Dunnottar Castle , and the pretty port of Stonehaven.

And if you are traveling with kids, two of the best stops are dog-filled Huskyhaven , and all the adrenaline-fuelled fun of Arbroath’s Pleasureland .

• Distance: 205 miles/330km
• Time: 5-10 days
• Itinerary: Glasgow – Edinburgh – St Andrews – Arbroath – Stonehaven – Aberdeen
• Highlights: Pittenweem, Anstruther, Crail, Stonehaven, Carnoustie, driving through Edinburgh, huge stretches of the coast, lots of family-friendly stuff, and exploring Aberdeen itself 

What to Do in Aberdeen : There’s a load of underrated stuff in Aberdeen. Start with Greyhope Bay (the #1 dolphin-spotting location in the UK!) , the family-fun-packed Aberdeen Science Center , and Donmouth Local Nature Reserve . And if you have time, head north to both Blackdog Beach and Cruden Bay Beach.

🏠 Where to Stay in Aberdeen : For lots of lovely luxury, try out Sandman Signature Aberdeen Hotel & Spa . But for much more affordable, the Holiday Inn Express is a reliable, clean and comfortable option.

I know, I know, we’ve already visited Newcastle. But this time, we’re gonna see the place in a totally different way… and along a totally different route.

As I keep saying for every coastal ride on this list, I recommend always sticking to the coast as tightly as you can:

Drive from Glasgow to Edinburgh along the route I’ve already recommended. From here, follow the coast until you reach Berwick (the English border town). Between Edinburgh and Berwick, you should stop at both North Berwick and Eyemouth (and prepare to stop endless times between St Abbs and Eyemouth, one of my favorite coastal stretches in Scotland) .

It’s then time to drive from Berwick to Newcastle, along the unnecessarily-lengthily-named Northumberland Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty .

Along the way, you’ll pass great beaches, massive castles, and some of my favorite coastal settlements on the planet. This part of the region is most famous for its cycle route, the Coast and Castles cycling route , but it’s equally excellent as a road trip.

Must-visit stop-offs on this part of your trip include Craster , Bamburgh Castle (the most impressive castle in the area) , Alnmouth (my favorite seaside town in Northumberland) , Warkworth Castle , Creswell, Whitley Bay, and Tynemouth.

• Distance: 207 miles/333km
• Time: 5-10 days 
• Itinerary: Glasgow – Edinburgh – Eyemouth – Berwick – Bamburgh – Alnmouth – Newcastle
• Highlights: North Berwick, Eyemouth, Bamburgh Castle, Warkworth Castle, munching on kippers at Craster, exploring the hidden beaches of Northumberland, and riding along the shores of England’s most sparsely-populated coast

What to Do in Newcastle : Wander around the city center, head to the Ouseburn area for food and drinks, and go watch a football match at St. James Park. And if you have time, hike in the nearby Cheviots (both Cheviot and Hedgehope are excellent ascents) , and explore the hikes and history of Hadrian’s Wall.

🏠 Where to Stay in Newcastle : As I said earlier in this guide, Newcastle’s best budget option is the super-modern YHA Newcastle … while the city’s best all-round hotel is Motel One Newcastle .

Put the brakes on, unbuckle your belt, and come stretch those legs. That’s the end of our journey, and the end of our guide on the 11 best road trips from Glasgow!

For much more on exploring Scotland from the confines of a car, drive on over to our guides on the best road trips from Edinburgh , the best road trips from Inverness , and the best road trips in all of Scotland .

Thanks for reading, thanks for visiting Travelness, and make sure you keep coming back for more!

About the author

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Paul is a handsome and hilarious travel writer and travel journalist from the UK. He's hiked, hitchhiked and laughed his way through more than fifty countries, and he's always looking for a new place to call home. Originally from Newcastle, he's lived all over the UK, spent more than three years in Asia, and most recently lived in Vietnam and then in Georgia.

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Best Road Trip in Scotland – A82 to Glencoe and beyond.

Road Trip  Glasgow to Glencoe (and beyond)

Time 10 hour round trip estimate (will vary depending on how many stops you include)

Miles 287 miles 

Best Time of Year Spring (however any season will be incredible)

Must Stop Buachaille Etive Mòr

Soundtrack  Biffy Clyro – Only Revolutions 

For as long as we can remember this has been our favourite road trip destination in the world. The A82 from Glasgow to Glencoe road trip has so much to offer. From  breathtaking mountains and picturesque villages, to majestic deer and a little Harry Potter nostalgia. We have included 12 stop ideas below which can be included on your road trip.

Stop 1: Luss

Luss is a picturesque village in the heart of Loch Lomond national park which provides views of Ben Lomond and Loch Lomond from its pier. It also has a cute shop, called the the Luss Village shop, which we would highly recommend for ice-cream. 

stop 2: The Drovers Inn

Rumoured to be one of the most haunted hotels in the UK, the striking Drovers Inn sits at the foreground of an eerie landscape, just north of Loch Lomond. It is a great place to stop for food or simply to capture a dramatic photo. 

STOP 3: Falls of Falloch

The Falls of Falloch is a hidden gem in the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. This can be a quick stop to see the mesmerising waterfall or on a nice day you can watch people cliff jumping into the water. 

Stop 4: devils pulpit

The Finnich Glen (also known as The Devil’s Pulpit) is a 100 ft deep, moss-covered gorge, where a river runs over red sandstone making the water appear red like blood (hence it’s nickname). You can climb down to this spot via some pretty intense steps but please do so with caution. We would recommend you research beforehand. This was also a filming location in season 1 of the tv show Outlander . 

Stop 5: TJ’s Diner

TJ’s Diner is a great place to stop in Tyndrum for food. It’s an American themed restaurant with the most amazing milkshakes and delicious food.

Stop 6: Kingshouse hotel

The Kingshouse hotel is a striking hotel which compliments the incredible landscape that surrounds it. It’s a great place to stop if you want to spot some deer. However please do not feed the deer and watch them from a safe distance. 

Stop 7: Buachaille Etive Mòr

Buachaille Etive Mòr is the most beautiful munro ever at the tip of Glen Etive. We would highly recommend pulling in to capture a photo of this incredible mountain. 

stop 8: The Wee white house

The Lagangarbh Hut, also known as the wee white house of Glencoe, is a great place to stop and take in the incredible landscape. The house actually belongs to the National Trust for Scotland and is maintained by the Scottish Mountaineering Club. The small, isolated house really emphasises the vast scale of the landscape.

Stop 9: The Three Sisters

At the heart of the mystical Glen Coe valley is the Three Sisters Viewpoint which looks upon 3 dramatic ridges of the Bidean nam Bian mountain. This spot is amazing to take in the breathtaking views of the valley.  

Any beyond...

Stop 10: glenfinnan viaduct.

The Glenfinnan Viaduct is another magical spot in the Scottish Highlands and was the iconic filming location of the Hogwarts Express for the Harry Potter films. Twice a day you can watch the Jacbobite steam train ride across the bridge or even better you can actually ride the train across the bridge. For more information on the Jacobite steam train click here . 

Stop 11: Arisiag Beach

A true gem of the Scottish Highlands is the wonderful Arisiag Beach, which you will struggle to believe is in Scotland with its white sand and turquoise waters. It is the perfect place to end your road trip with a picnic before heading back or staying somewhere nearby for the night. 

We hope you enjoyed reading about the amazing Glencoe road trip which in our opinion is the best road trip in Scotland. For more Scotland road trip ideas click here . 

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George RR Martin hits Glasgow sci-fi event obstacle over strict rules

George RR Martin has hit an obstacle in his quest to appear at the Worldcon Sci-Fi conference in Glasgow .

The event is the largest annual gathering of science fiction creators and their fans, and is due to take place next month between 8 August and 12 August.

In a move to ensure “fairness to everyone”, members were asked to propose ideas for events through an application form which were then considered through a screening process. But the Game of Thrones creator, whose books have sold over 90 million copies, did not hear back from organisers despite suggesting a variety of options to be included.

“I will be in Glasgow, attending the con, but whether you’ll see me, I don’t know. I am not on any programming. It is not for lack of trying, though,” the 75-year-old author shared in a blog post.

“I wrote the con’s programming chair back in January, and again in February, asking for his phone number so we could discuss the details.

“No phone number was forthcoming, alas, just a form letter with a link to an application and a warning that while I was welcome to apply, I could not be guaranteed a place on the programme.”

A spokesperson for Worldcon told The Guardian : “All of the programming at Glasgow 2024 has been proposed by our members.

“To ensure fairness to everyone, all proposed programme items must be submitted through our application process. About 2,000 members submitted proposals, and we are delighted to be hosting nearly 1,000 participants for more than 1,000 hours of programme items covering everything from books, movies and games to science, technology and culture.”

The publication also shared that the author had not been banned from attending in any way and remains welcome to turn up; although he is not a part of the formal programme, there may be opportunities for him to interact with fans.

Martin was optimistic about his trip as he hoped to interact with fans and enjoy the event.

“I will check out the art show, as I always do, maybe attend some bid parties,” he wrote. “And I will be wandering the dealer’s room (the huckster’s room, as us old timers call it). The rest of the time I guess I may hang out in the bar, drinking with friends both old and new.”

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