Scotland’s 15 best routes for joggers

1. THE CLYDE BRIDGES, GLASGOW

WE’VE all done it. Despite setting out with good intentions, the chances are you have over-indulged over Christmas and eaten your body weight in chocolate. If you want to start the new year on a healthier note, going for a run is one of the easiest (and cheapest) ways to ease yourself into exercise. Scotland has an array of beautiful routes for jogging, regardless of whether you are a beginner or an experienced enthusiast.

Starting at the Millennium Bridge beside the Science Centre, finishing on King George V Bridge (or further). The River Clyde has been at the heart of Glasgow’s growth into a modern industrial city and zigzagging across its many bridges is a great way to get to know the river – and to get fit in the process. If you start at the Science Centre you can cross the Millennium Bridge, then Bell’s Bridge before continuing on to the Clyde Arc (Squinty Bridge), Tradeston Bridge (Squiggly Bridge) and finishing at the King George V Bridge. The route is almost entirely flat, so it’s great for beginners, but if the distance proves too much you can do as few of the bridges as you want.

2. MONIKIE COUNTRY PARK, ANGUS

Built to supply Dundee with clean water, the Monikie reservoirs were taken out of active use in 1981 when demand outstripped the supply they could offer. The reservoirs then became recreational rather than practical, and now serve as the centrepoint of the lush Monikie Country Park. The route around them is popular at the weekends with people walking, cycling or jogging, but most are going at a gentle pace so there is no pressure to over-exert yourself. There is also woodland, parkland and a beautiful bird sanctuary that you can base your run on.

3. SCOTT’S VIEW, SCOTTISH BORDERS

Bemersyde, St Boswell’s, Scottish Borders