One thing we do not lack in Scotland is scenic routes. Amazing nature views are always just a stone’s throw away from the city centre, and a short walk or cycle is usually enough to reach a replenished nature-filled state. We have asked Secret Glasgow readers for their intel on the best cycle routes, and they delivered. Check out some delightfully dreamy cycle routes around Glasgow with braw views along the way for your next local adventure.
1. West Loch Lomond Cycle Path from Glasgow to Loch Lomond
Through these two cycling paths, cyclists will find amazing views of River Clyde and Loch Lomond. It is mainly traffic-free due to being transformed through the Bowline Project in 2021, allowing everyone walking, wheeling and cycling to access the National Cycle Network Route 7 from River Clyde. The West Loch Lomond Cycle Path is a 17 mile stretch from Balloch to Tarbet. However, if you feel like cycling all the way from Glasgow will get you tyre-d, you can take the train to Balloch and then back from Arrochar & Tarbet.
2. The Falkirk Wheel via the Forth and Clyde Canal
The 45.4-mile path is mainly flat and traffic-free, however, there is a wee bit of an incline along the way. Your final destination will be The Falkirk Wheel, a rotating boat lift and a 21st-century landmark that connects the Forth and Clyde Canal with Edinburgh’s Union Canal. Start at Cowcaddens outside of town, then head Northbound towards the A81 and A879, then pass through the towns of Bishopbriggs, Kirkintilloch and Bonnybridge. The Tak-Ma-Doon Road in Kilsyth is the challenge mentioned before, with the route’s highest incline. There are also pubs along the way such as The Tables and The Bridge Inn, so you can always count on a much-needed energy boost.
3. Glasgow to Uddingston
This one has a bit of a road stretch nearer Uddingston, but is a shorter one compared, stretching 8.24 miles. The town of Uddingston is home to the famous Tunnock’s confectionery factory (Milk Chocolate Caramel Wafers, hello!), so we’d visit there for this fact alone! You’ll start at Glasgow Green Park and head East by the River Clyde’s North bank past Rutherglen and Cambuslang. Rutherglen is home to a gorgeous old clock tower by Old Parish Church where many choose to take a break. Then, you can enjoy the eerie views of Gilbertfield Castle surrounded by a new housing estate in Cambuslang. The final stretch to Uddingston will be on the roads, where you can take the well-anticipated tour of Tunnock’s factory. Just remember to book in advance!
4. Pollok Park
This one is for the mountain bikers out there. Known as the Glasgow Mountain Bike Circuit, Pollok Park is a great day out for adventure-loving cyclists. You can choose between easy (green), moderate (blue), difficult (red) or severe (black): if you’re just easing into the mountain biking scene, start with the first two. And if you’re looking for a bit more thrilling experience, the red circuit is where the real action starts. On top of some off-road cycling, Pollok Park is just stunning in itself and is home to the famous Pollok House, Highland cows and you could even spot some deer along the way.
5. Lochwinnoch Bird Observatory loop at Castle Semple Country Park
This one’s for those wanting a wee bit of a challenge. The Lochwinnoch bird observatory loop at Castle Semple Country Park is a 41.4-mile loop route offering some brilliant views from the Clyde Muirshiel Hills. The path requires a good fitness level but is paved throughout, therefore is suitable for all skill levels. Start at Glasgow Central station and head towards Paisley making your way to Lochwinnoch, to Clyde Muirshiel Hills and after the bird observatory. You will also pass through a giant bike for some unusual photo ops.
6. Lennoxtown & Mugdock Reservoir loop – Campsie Fells
This38.6-mile loop takes over four hours to complete, which starts and ends near Maryhill Park on Maryhill Road. Cyclists then go past Lennoxtown near the abandoned psychiatric hospital, Lennox Castle, (an extra wee adventure for you) before heading to Mugdock Reservoir and Campsie Fells.