Glasgow is one of the most culturally rich cities in the UK and easily one of my favourites within Scotland. You can easily spend a week in the city without getting bored and it can be a perfect base to explore the nearby more-expensive Edinburgh. It also just so happens to have a range of excellent days out, arguably one of the main reasons to visit. Here are just some of the day trips from Glasgow you can take; I’ve tried just including the very best. Enjoy!
Best Day Trips from Glasgow | Your Quick Guide
1. Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park
Loch Lomond is a short distance away from Glasgow and it will take you around 45 minutes to get here depending on whether you opt for a train or car. In my opinion, both have their benefits and it all is down to personal preference.
The Loch is easily one of Scotland’s most scenic destinations. Not only that, but it has a range of different activities to try out, including water sports. It is also perfect for basking in the sun, drink in hand. Some of my favourite things to do here are:
- Hike the nearby Conic Hill. You’ll get some gorgeous views of the Loch and all of its islands. The walk takes anywhere up to 3 hours and can be quite steep in some places. For this one, bring walking shoes!
- Visit the nearby quaint village of Luss and accompanying pebble beach.
- Ride a boat from Balloch so you can see the secret caves and islands of the Loch.
Top Tip: Arrive early, especially in summer, as it can get really crowded.
2. Edinburgh
A day trip to Edinburgh is a great way to see this impressive city on the cheaper side. Trust me, staying in Edinburgh costs far more than Glasgow and this will save you a fair amount! The train here doesn’t take long at all (between 50 minutes to an 1 hour) and it is direct.
When you get here, you can explore the historic sites such as Edinburgh Castle or just shop along the Royal Mile. For more information on how to spend a day, or 48 hours in, Edinburgh, check out my blog post.
3. Stirling
Stirling is one of the most historically significant cities in Scotland and played a huge role in the country’s past. By train or car the journey takes around 40 minutes and, again, both are easily done.
In the city you’ll be able to visit Stirling Castle, which is perched high up on a volcanic rock. The views are genuinely spectacular and are worth the entrance fee alone, but I must say that I learnt a lot here whilst visiting. Along the same theme, you can also visit the nearby Wallace Monument. This is a tribute to Scottish hero William Wallace and you’ll also get some more incredible views.
If history just isn’t your thing, don’t worry. The old town has some beautiful streets and shops to explore and will keep you busy for hours.
Tip: Stirling is quite hilly, so be prepared for some climbing. Getting up to the castle in particular can be a challenge, so you may want to drive up there.
4. Loch Katrine and The Steamship Sir Walter Scott
Loch Katrine is slightly further afield and you’ll need a car to get here in a reasonable time. The journey should take you around 75 minutes but, once you see the lush rolling hills, you’ll be happy you drove here! The Loch is easily one of the best day trips from Glasgow and famously features in Sir Walter Scott’s famous poem “The Lady of the Lake“.
When you get to Loch Katrine, here are some of my favourite things to do.
- As you may have guessed from the title, the best thing to do here is to take a scenic cruise on the historic Steamship Sir Walter Scott. Not only can you get some beautiful views, but you can kick back and relax on this incredible historic boat.
- As well as seeing the Loch from the water, I would also recommend a chilled stroll or even a bike ride around. Once you’re done, you can stop at one of the local Cafés that surround the Loch. Pier Cafê was the one we went to and really enjoyed.
Tip: Book your steamship tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist season.
5. Culzean Castle and Country Park
The nearby Culzean Castle is one of the best day trips from Glasgow. The building overlooks the Firth of the Clyde, which makes it one of the most beautiful and romantic castles in Britain. You also have an awe-inspiring cliff-top location and lush gardens. I also think it is a perfect day out for everyone, including couples and families. Better yet, it takes only one hour by car.
Whilst you are hear make sure that you tour the opulent rooms, all of which have stories to tell. Then, once you have seen inside the castle, take a walk through the nearby country park and explore the gardens and woodlands. Both of them have coastal views which are perfect for photographs.
6. The Isle of Arran
This one is certainly one of the longer day trips from Glasgow, but it is undoubtedly one of the best. Firstly, you’ll need to drive to Ardrossan which will take you the best part of an hour. Then, you’ll have to take the ferry across which takes just under an hour.
The Isle of Arran is often referred to as “Scotland in Miniature”, mainly because it encompasses some of the best Scottish landscapes. You’ll see rugged, Highland-like mountains, unspoilt beaches and ancient ruins all in a local area. Whilst you’re here, make sure that you hike up Goat Fell and explore Brodick Castle and Gardens. Then to end the day, enjoy local produce at either the Arran Cheese Shop or Arran Distillery.
Tip: Check ferry schedules in advance and try to get across as early as possible. You also may want to overnight nearby to help.
7. Oban and the West Coast
Oban is another one of the best day trips from Glasgow, but is a long one. It has to be one of the most beautiful towns in the UK and, like you’d expect, has some incredible views and delicious seafood. Whilst most of what to do here is relaxing by the sea, there are a few other options too. You can visit McCaig’s Tower, a hilltop structure which actually resembles the Roman Colosseum.
You can also extend your trip here with an adventure to the nearby islands of Mull or Iona. However, you plan to do this and catch a ferry, make sure that you arrive early or book in advance. These can get very busy during peal season.
Tips for Day Trips from Glasgow
- Plan Your Transport: Most destinations are easily accessible by car or public transport but, as I’ve written above, make sure that check train and ferry schedules in advance.
- Pack for All Weathers: Scotland’s weather is famously unpredictable (believe me!), so make sure that you bring everything you need with you. In the summer, bring bug spray – I cannot emphasise that enough!
- Start Early: Many tourist spots get busy later in the day so try to wake up early to avoid the crowds.
Final Thoughts | The Best Day Trips from Glasgow
Glasgow is a perfect base to explore nearby Scotland and then can be the ultimate stepping stone to Fort William and beyond. I hope that you have enjoyed reading about what I perceive are the best day trips from this city. If you have any questions about any of them, please let me know. I love hearing from you.
