With 72 miles of traffic-free cycleways, many of the leading attractions and landmarks in Scotland’s biggest city can be easily reached by walking, wheeling and cycling.
Riverside Museum in Glasgow. Credit: VisitScotland/Kenny Lam.
These trails use mainly traffic-free National Cycle Network Routes and canal towpaths, and are brought to you in partnership with Visit Scotland, Visit Glasgow and Scottish Canals.
These day trips are supported by funding from the Scottish Government, administered through Sustrans Scotland’s Network Engagement programme.
1. Glasgow's Waterways
This circular route follows Glasgow’s historic waterways, combining iconic institutions such as Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum with contemporary and historic structures along the Forth and Clyde Canal.
The loop uses sections of National Cycle Network Route 756, offering panoramic views along the Clyde before following the River Kelvin to Kelvin Aqueduct and Maryhill Locks.
Make sure to take a break at the spectacular Stockingfield Bridge - its nearby art park showcases diverse installations, including the 120–metre long ‘Bella the Beithir’.
2. The Art and Culture Lover's Trail
This day trip, which includes time spent on National Cycle Network Route 7, is perfect for those who love art, culture and coffee stops.
Visit the House for an Art Lover in Bellahouston Park, and the world-famous Burrell Collection and historic Pollok House and Gardens in Pollok Country Park.
At over 140 hectares, this Glasgow’s largest green space and home to a much-loved herd of over 50 Highland cows, who have been a feature of the park for over 180 years.
3. River Leven Heritage Trail from Bowling
Just a short ride from Bowling Harbour, the River Leven is a tranquil wildlife haven, and you can follow its banks on National Cycle Network Route 7 from Dumbarton to the bustling town of Balloch.
Once the focus of a huge textile industry, only a few remnants of the river’s industrial past remain, described on interpretation panels along the route.
Upon reaching Balloch, the gateway to Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, you're greeted with expansive views across Loch Lomond to distant mountains, and the opportunity to enjoy refreshments at one of the many cafes and restaurants.
Stockingfield Bridge. Credit: Sustrans/McAteer Photography, 2023.
4. The Banks of the River Clyde
Explore the many visitor attractions along the banks of the Clyde, which give an insight into Glasgow’s rich heritage and industrial past.
From National Cycle Network Route 75, you will see sleek glass structures contrast with historic docks and ancient cranes on this short ride through the city’s history.
Be sure to check out the Riverside Museum - Glasgow’s award-winning transport and technology museum - before continuing your journey to the city’s oldest park, Glasgow Green.
5. Bowling Harbour from George Square
Follow the Forth and Clyde Canal to its terminus at the picturesque Bowling Harbour on this well-signed section of National Cycle Network Route 754, before returning along the industrialised banks of the River Clyde.
At Bowling, a short detour from the trail will take you onto ‘The Bowline’ -Scotland’s answer to the New York High Line.
This former railway viaduct is now a scenic linear park, offering panoramic views over the harbour and Firth of Clyde.
On the Bowline at Bowling. Credit: Sustrans, 2021.
6. Glasgow Art Trail
This route is an urban ‘treasure hunt’ searching out some of Glasgow’s most notable sculptures, street murals and public works of art.
National Cycle Network Route 75 will take you to Glasgow Green, where you can take time to explore The People’s Palace – Glasgow’s social history museum – and what is believed to be the world’s largest Terracotta water fountain.
On returning to the city via Carlton and Merchant City, you will pass several notable murals including a modern depiction of St Mungo, the Patron Saint and ‘founder’ of Glasgow, ‘Fellow Glasgow Residents’ which celebrates the wildlife and natural history of the city, and the 200 metres long ‘Wonder Wall’, a tribute to the people of the University of Strathclyde, and their many achievements.
7. Isle of Great Cumbrae Loop
The island of Great Cumbrae, ‘Scotland’s most accessible island’, is easily reached from Glasgow lying a 15-minute ferry ride away from the popular seaside resort of Largs.
Enjoy panoramic seascapes as you follow the quiet 10-mile coastal road around the island, where visitor attractions include The Cathedral of the Isles and the ‘Museum of the Cumbraes’.
The main town is Millport which is well serviced with cafés, pubs and shops, as well as offering several options for bicycle hire.
