With 73 miles of traffic-free cycleways, Glasgow is easily explored by bike. Sustrans has joined forces with Visit Scotland, Visit Glasgow and Scottish Canals to encourage more people to actively discover the history and culture of Scotland’s largest city.
Soaking up Glasgow's riverside sights by National Cycle Network Route 7, part of 'The Banks of the River Clyde' day trip. Credit: Brian Sweeney/Sustrans.
Building on the success of the inaugural 2023 UCI Cycling World Championships held in Glasgow, residents and visitors are being urged to explore Scotland’s biggest city using the National Cycle Network this spring.
Many of Glasgow’s leading attractions and landmarks can be easily reached by walking, wheeling and cycling.
Sustrans has joined forces with Visit Scotland, Visit Glasgow and Scottish Canals to promote 7 meticulously crafted itineraries.
The 7 routes include stops at Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum, Pollok Country Park and The Burrell Collection, The Riverside Museum, Glasgow Science Centre and more.
Whether it’s people looking for a city-break or an adventure, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
7 of our favourite day trips on the National Cycle Network in Glasgow
With 73 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.
Why choose to travel actively?
Opting to walk, wheel or cycle on the National Cycle Network instead of driving can not only help you meet fitness goals but also alleviate stress, boost mood, and enhance overall mental health.
Plus, it’s good for the environment too.
Emilia Hanna, Head of Programme for the National Cycle Network at Sustrans Scotland, explains:
“We hope that this will inspire residents and visitors to actively explore the city and its leading attractions and landmarks.
"By leaving our cars at home more often, we can reduce traffic congestion, improve air quality in our neighbourhoods, and promote healthier spaces where we can all thrive."
Taking the public cycle hire scheme for a spin on National Cycle Network Route 754, by the Forth and Clyde Canal - part of the 'Glasgow's Waterways' day trip. Credit: Brian Sweeney/Sustrans.
Day trip details
Glasgow is well connected by a series of mainly traffic-free National Cycle Network Routes and canal towpaths across the city.
These paths form the basis of the 7 newly created day trips, which range from introductory to intermediate grade rides from between 1.5 to 4.5 hours in length.
Some of the trails remain within the city centre, while others take people further afield towards Loch Lomond and Great Cumbrae:
- Glasgow’s Waterways
- The Art and Culture Lover’s Trail
- River Leven Heritage Trail from Bowling
- The Banks of the River Clyde
- Bowling Harbour from George Square
- Glasgow Art Trail
- Isle of Great Cumbrae Loop
Explore the 'River Leven Heritage Trail from Bowling' and discover West Dunbartonshire's answer to the New York Highline, the Bowline. Credit: Sustrans.
Building a cycling legacy
With 73 miles (117km) of traffic-free cycleways, Glasgow is a city made for exploring by bike.
Chair of Glasgow Life, Bailie Annette Christie, said: "The first place in the UK to be awarded UCI Bike City status, it’s easy to hire a bike and join a wide range of eco-friendly cycling tours, suitable for all fitness levels.
“Our vision is that everyone should have the opportunity to experience the freedom and joy that cycling can bring to our lives—benefiting health, transport, the environment, the economy, and of course, tourism."
VisitScotland’s Regional Director, Lynne Cooper, added: “We know that museums and galleries are the most popular attractions for visitors to Glasgow, followed by enjoying the buildings and architecture.
"Exploring the sights by bike is a fantastic way to slow down and experience the health benefits of responsible travel.
“Our 2025 trends show that visitors are building holiday experiences around their passions and interests. There’s great potential for tourism businesses to appeal to visitors who want to cycle, growing the value of the visitor economy in Glasgow.”
The 'Glasgow's Waterways' route takes you to Stockingfield Bridge, built to enhance community connectivity. If you dare, meet 120-metre long ‘Bella the Beithir' in the nearby art park. Credit: Sustrans.
Working in partnership
Explore Glasgow’s history and culture through these routes, brought to you in partnership by Visit Scotland, Visit Glasgow, Sustrans and Scottish Canals.
The 7 day trips were created with funding from the Scottish Government, administered through Sustrans Scotland’s Network Engagement programme.
Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Fiona Hyslop, said:
“I’m pleased to welcome this collaborative campaign, bringing together a range of organisations with a shared interest in promoting people to explore Glasgow by bike.
“Exploring Glasgow by bike is one of the best ways to connect with the city, and in a way which is better for our health and our climate. The Scottish Government has substantially contributed to the expanding and upgraded network of cycle routes across the city – and it’s never been easier, safer and more convenient for visitors to choose sustainable travel for exploring and enjoying all that Glasgow has to offer.
“Whether it’s the South City Way, Connecting Woodside, the Avenues Plus projects – or the National Cycle Network and the glorious Forth and Clyde Canal – there’s a route available for you to unlock a fantastic day out at Glasgow’s best destinations.”
