The Grass Is Always Greener
There is no shortage of green space to enjoy in and around Glasgow
GLASGOW might be Scotland’s biggest urban area, but it’s packed with parks. Whether you’re in the heart of the city or exploring the suburbs, you have your pick of green spaces for autumnal strolls.
Each park offers something unique, so if you are looking for a fantastic play area, a hidden castle or beautiful scenery, you will find somewhere to suit you. This is a selection of the best spots on offer for you and your family to explore.
Mugdock Country Park is to the north of Glasgow, just outside the town of Milngavie, and is one of the largest green spaces in the area. Mugdock is so much more than just a park, with a ridiculous amount to discover and explore – you might need more than a day to take it all in. Development officer, Pamela Grieve, describes all that they offer in the extensive grounds.
“Mugdock Country Park is a mixture of woodland, moorland and heathland, all waiting to be explored,” she says. “Take a walk to Mugdock Castle which overlooks Mugdock Loch, passing by the ruins of Craigend Castle on the way. Pop into the Visitor Centre to purchase a Toadstool Trail map and collect your prize after solving the clues! Wander through Pheasants Wood then over Pietches Moor or head over to Khyber Field and see the Second World War Gunsites.”
As well as historical and natural curiosities to discover, Mugdock also offers plenty for kids to get involved with.
“Don’t forget to take the kids to the play park and Adventure Trail then finish off with a refreshment in the Courtyard and wander round the gallery and garden centre. Whatever you do, there’s plenty for all the family!”
To the south west of Glasgow, on the outskirts of Paisley, you will find Gleniffer Braes. This sprawling park is the top pick for any ornithologists; home to skylarks, meadow pipits, kestrels, sparrowhawks, chaffinches and
goldcrests. Among the acres of grounds, you might also spot a rare wildflower, roe deer and tawny owls. Gleniffer Braes is a peaceful oasis and the perfect spot for a family walk or a wee break from city life.
If you are visiting the Greater Glasgow area with children in tow, then Calderglen Country Park is unmissable. Located a few miles away from East Kilbride, this expanse of parkland is packed with things to see and do, offering a brilliant day out for kids to blow off some steam. Calderglen really has it all – a zoo, an incredible adventure playground, beautiful ornamental gardens, and even an 18-hole golf course.
Another favourite picnic spot for any Glasgow local is Pollok Country Park. The largest park in the city, Pollok is a tranquil spot for a walk amid beautiful scenery.
While strolling through the wooded paths and verdant grounds, you will also come across several mountain bike loops, opened by cycling legend Sir Chris Hoy in 2004.
In the heart of the park sits the grand Pollok House. Cared for by the National Trust for Scotland, the Edwardian country house has an impressive collection of art, plus a tea room and fascinating tours.
Another verdant spot, this time in the heart of the city, is Cuningar Loop. Enclosed by a meander of the River Clyde, the parkland is home to an array of outdoor activities. Paige Klinkman is the visitor services manager for Forestry and Land Scotland, which looks after the site.
“Cuningar is a fantastic site for a day out for people of
“A brilliant day out for kids steam” to blow off some
all ages,” she says. “There is a wide range of facilities – something for everyone – including an adventure play park and adult fitness area, a mountain bike skills area, and the first outdoor bouldering park in Scotland.
“There is also a surprising abundance of wildlife. The board walk is a great place to spot a sunbathing seal.
“It’s a great resource,” Paige says. “A little oasis of normal – that, over the past few months, has played its part in helping people look after their physical and mental health and wellbeing.”
As the crisp autumn days slip into winter, make the most of these opportunities to get out. Social distancing has made a lot of activities unviable, but luckily the simple pleasure of an autumnal walk remains unaffected.