Summary
Glasgow, Scotland’s second largest city following Edinburgh, has historically been viewed primarily as an industrial hub. Nevertheless, in recent years, it has embraced tourism and undergone a remarkable transformation.
Today’s Glasgow offers a wealth of attractions for visitors, and the surrounding areas present ample opportunities for exploration during day trips.
The nearby highlands are ready to be experienced, boasting magnificent, untamed vistas that are unique to Scotland.
Majestic lochs, serene glens, and towering mountain landscapes await, all within a brief drive.
Off the coast, the Scottish Isles are easily accessible via short boat rides. Furthermore, it remains convenient to visit the historic cities of Edinburgh, Stirling, and Dundee to gain deeper insights into Scottish heritage and culture.
Glasgow serves as an excellent base for extraordinary day trips throughout Scotland and unforgettable adventures in the highlands.
1. Loch Lomond
Loch Lomond is an extensive freshwater lake extending over 30 kilometers, yet only a few kilometers wide at its broadest point.
The term “loch” is the Scottish word for lake, and Loch Lomond is esteemed not only as one of the most stunning lakes in Scotland but also across the United Kingdom.
It is not merely the lake’s beauty that captivates visitors, but also the approximately thirty islands that dot its shoreline, a distinctive feature in the British Isles.
Loch Lomond serves as a hub for various water sports activities in the area, including kayaking and motor boating along its waterways.
This Scottish gem is merely a day trip away from Glasgow.
2. Loch Ness
Loch Ness is arguably one of the most renowned locations in Scotland.
Situated approximately three hours north of Glasgow, near Inverness, an early departure and extended travel time are rewarded with a visit to this legendary destination.
Various operators provide day tours for those who prefer not to drive.
As the second largest loch in the UK following Loch Lomond, it is equally stunning; however, the primary allure lies in the legend surrounding the Loch Ness Monster.
Numerous unverified sightings of this mythical creature have persisted over the years, yet the only means to ascertain its existence is to visit Loch Ness personally and contemplate the possibility of this giant being dwelling beneath the murky waters.
3. Pitlochry
The Scottish town of Pitlochry is among the most picturesque areas in the country.
Located just one and a half hours northeast of Glasgow, it marks the gateway to the Highlands and the expansive wilderness of Scotland.
Tourism flourished in Pitlochry following Queen Victoria’s visit in the mid-19th century.
Captivated by its beauty, the village has since developed into a desired destination, perfectly positioned on the brink of Scotland’s wild landscapes while providing modern comforts.
4. Glencoe
Glencoe is a national nature reserve situated two hours north of Glasgow; it showcases the authentic Highland landscape where clans once thrived and kilts were customary.
This mountainous region is favored by hikers and climbers, encompassing breathtaking sceneries that can be appreciated from a distance, particularly from the main highway that runs alongside the territory, offering easy accessibility to this natural retreat.
5. Oban
The quaint town of Oban is located directly on the Scottish coastline, providing stunning views over the distant isles.
Primarily a resort area for visitors, Oban is celebrated for its dramatic surroundings.
The bay on which Oban is situated is recognized as one of the most spectacular in Scotland, with coastal scenery that is unparalleled worldwide.
Also nearby are historical castles, serene glens, and highland landscapes ripe for exploration.
6. Inveraray
Inveraray is renowned for its castle, constructed by the Duke of Argyll in the mid-18th century.
While it may not be a castle in the traditional sense, rather it is an extensive estate.
For visitors, this location provides one of the finest opportunities to experience the grandeur of Scottish nobility and glimpse the opulent lifestyle they once enjoyed.
Inveraray Castle resembles a grand house adorned with several turrets; a design style popular during its construction, yet it doesn’t fit the medieval castle image.
Nestled in a stunning landscape, it continues to serve as residence for the current Duke of Argyle, whose ancestry can be traced back to the founders.
7. Kilmarnock
Kilmarnock is noted for two significant contributions: it is the birthplace of Robert Burns, the renowned poet who first published his works here, as well as being the hometown of Jonnie Walker, the founder of the globally recognized Jonnie Walker Whiskey brand, which has been bottled in Kilmarnock for nearly three centuries.
Additionally, it is the place where Alexander Fleming, the pioneer of penicillin, received his education, and the city where the British rock band Biffy Clyro originated.
If this is not compelling enough to entice a visit, its character as a typical Scottish town enriched with unique history and heritage should motivate you to travel from Glasgow.
8. Ayrshire Coast
The Ayrshire Coast encompasses Kilmarnock and much beyond.
This region is the landscape that inspired Robert Burns’ poetry, featuring rugged cliffs and the untamed beauty of the southwestern Scottish coastline.
Here, islands await exploration, charming villages are scattered, and there are miles of coastal hiking trails to traverse.
Conveniently accessible from Glasgow, this represents the Scottish coast at its most picturesque and accessible.
9. Culzean Castle
One of the most significant landmarks on the Ayrshire Coast, easily accessible from Glasgow, is Culzean Castle.
Perched atop a steep cliff overlooking the Firth of Clyde, this castle offers public access and provides a glimpse into Scottish history that traces back to its construction in the late 18th century.
This iconic castle has appeared on the reverse of the Scottish five-pound note and represents a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Glasgow.
10. Trossachs
The Trossachs constitute a wild area of forested glens located north of Glasgow, characterized by steep terrain and quintessentially Scottish ambiance.
This region is replete with lochs and woodlands.
It is an ideal location for hiking, experiencing the outdoors, and witnessing Scottish nature at its most dramatic and breathtaking.
The Trossachs garnered fame through the poet Walter Scott, who immortalized the area in his work ‘The Lady of the Lake,’ an evocative poem that paints a portrait of the lochs and landscapes that define this enchanting locale.
Little has changed in the century since the poem’s publication; the area remains as raw and wild as ever.
11. St Andrews
St Andrews is home to Scotland’s oldest university and is reputedly where the game of golf originated.
Located northeast of Glasgow along the coast above Edinburgh, this city is historically significant and continues to be pivotal in modern Scotland, with its prominent and thriving University.
Visitors to St Andrews will find museums, universities, and a wealth of Scottish history to explore and appreciate.
12. Dundee
Dundee is located two hours northeast of Glasgow and is worth the journey to witness the distinctive statue of Desperate Dan, the comic book character celebrated in the city.
Dundee takes pride in being the birthplace of this beloved character.
Moreover, Dundee has a fascinating maritime history within the British Isles.
A museum dedicated to Captain Scott’s Antarctic expedition can be found here, among many other ships constructed during the peak of boat building on this Scottish coastline.
13. Perth
Situated on the banks of the River Tay in central Scotland, Perth has historical roots that extend back to ancient times.
It has served as the capital of multiple Scottish kingdoms; it is where the Scottish Scone conferred leadership upon kings and where royalty once held court during various periods in history.
While its prominence has diminished compared to Edinburgh and Glasgow, Perth continues to offer an abundance of history to attract visitors, in addition to a contemporary cultural scene that is somewhat off the beaten track compared to its larger rivals.
14. Stirling
Similarly to Perth, Stirling is centrally positioned in Scotland and serves as the confluence of the Highlands and the Lowlands.
This geographic locale holds considerable historical significance, being the birthplace of numerous Scottish monarchs, including King David I.
This area also holds paramount importance in the history of the Wars of Scottish Independence, as it was the site of the Battle of Stirling Bridge, where notable figures like Robert the Bruce and William Wallace fought fiercely.
For those seeking enlightenment regarding Scottish history, Stirling is an indispensable destination.
15. Edinburgh
No visit to Scotland would be complete without experiencing Edinburgh, the country’s capital and the center of its government.
Only an hour from Glasgow by bus, train, or car, Edinburgh is a picturesque historic city brimming with cultural endeavors that continue to evolve.
The magnificent Edinburgh Castle dominates the skyline from its volcanic perch, while the bustling market streets below are lively with pubs, exceptional dining, and a taste of Scottish daily life.
It is an exceptional destination for travelers departing from Glasgow.
