Unforgettable day trips from Glasgow
Stunning Loch Lomond
The lyrics ring true, they're called the bonnie, bonnie banks for a reason. A 50-minute train journey from Glasgow Queen Street station takes you to Balloch, a charming town sitting on the banks of Loch Lomond. As well as breathtaking sights, there are also lots of great things to do in and around Loch Lomond. Below are a few of our top picks.
Experiences on the Loch
Admiring the beauty of Loch Lomond from the shore is something special, but it’s even better from the water. There are a number of boat trips and tours you can enjoy.
Sweeney's Cruises offer a range of boat trips and tours departing from Balloch. Enjoy views of Ben Lomond, discover the legends of Loch Lomond’s islands or take in a picture-perfect sunset. Find out more at Sweeney’s Cruises.
Cruise Loch Lomond operate trips from the picturesque village of Luss. They offer hop-on, hop-off, island circular tours, a great way to see the hidden nooks of the loch. You can book at Cruise Loch Lomond.
Or try something a bit different. Get a bird’s eye view of the dramatic landscape on a seaplane with Uncover Scotland Tours. Find out more at Uncover Scotland Tours.
Lochside Walks
Enjoy a gentle 30-minute walk beginning from Loch Lomond Shores before you head back to Glasgow. For something a little longer, visit Balloch Castle Country Park. Spanning over 200 acres of woodland, it offers gardens, nature trails and a great vantage point for views over Loch Lomond. Visit Balloch Castle Country Park for more info.
Loch Lomond Shores
Loch Lomond Shores is a great place to visit for a bite to eat with unparalleled views of the loch. Check out Café Zest for breakfast, lunch or afternoon tea. Indulge in delicious baked treats at Thornton’s Caffe. Or shop for local crafts and produce at the farmers market on the first and third Sunday of every month. Visit Loch Lomond Shores for more information.
Guided Tours
Tour operator Rabbie’s offer a day trip which includes Glengoyne Distillery, near Loch Lomond, where you can enjoy a dram or two of whisky. Visit Rabbie's to find out more.
For those who like an adventure, 4x4 Adventures Scotland offer an exhilarating off-road tour of the Loch Lomond hills. Your 4x4 vehicle comes complete with a friendly, kilted guide, too. Visit 4x4 Adventures Scotland to book.
Coastal Ayr
Visit the town of Ayr. Enjoy the seaside and discover the heritage of one of Scotland’s most celebrated figures, Robert Burns. Ayr is also easy to get to from Glasgow. You can catch a train from Glasgow Central Station and you'll be there in 50 minutes.
Ayr Beach
A 20-minute stroll from the train station and you’ll have sand at your feet as you reach Ayr Beach. On a nice day, enjoy expansive views out to sea and try to spot the nearby islands of Ailsa Craig and Arran in the distance. And even if the sun isn’t shining, there's always ice cream. Make sure to pick one up at Renaldo’s of Ayr, specialising in traditional ices as well as chocolate and coffee. Check out what they offer at Renaldo’s of Ayr.
Robert Burns
More fondly known as Rabbie Burns, Robert Burns was a poet and lyricist and is one of the most celebrated figures in Scotland. He even has his very own national day every year on January 25, called Burns Night. The majority of Robert Burns’ visitor attractions are in the quaint village of Alloway where he was born. Alloway is just a short bus ride from Ayr town centre.
Visit the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum and learn all about ‘Scotland’s favourite son’. You’ll soon discover that there are many landmarks near the museum that inspired many of Burns’ works. From Tam o’ Shanter at the Brig o’ Doon to the witches at Alloway Auld Kirk, Burns’ heritage is all around. To find out more visit Robert Burns Museum.
Historic Stirling
Take a day trip to the Royal Burgh of Stirling, one of Scotland’s most historic cities. Visit the famous Stirling Castle, discover the Battle of Bannockburn or explore the Wallace Monument. Even a leisurely wander through the stunning old town is an experience in itself. Catch a train from Glasgow’s Queen Street Station and you'll be in Stirling within 30 minutes.
Stirling Castle
Wander through the cobbled streets of Stirling’s old town towards one of Scotland’s most impressive castles. Stirling Castle and its royal palace have been home to many Scottish monarchs. The castle features in some of the most turbulent periods of Scottish history. A guided tour features William Wallace, Robert the Bruce, Mary Queen of Scots, and Bonnie Prince Charlie. The castle's striking position makes it a great spot for taking in views of the surrounding area. Find out more at Stirling Castle.
The National Wallace Monument
The Wallace Monument tells the story of the patriot and martyr William Wallace, who became Scotland’s national hero. The monument stands above the fields where Wallace led his troops to victory at the Battle of Stirling Bridge. Climb the 246 steps to the monument’s crown and you’ll be rewarded with 360-degree views of Stirlingshire. The Hall of Heroes displays William Wallace’s sword. Regular buses depart from Stirling city centre and stop outside the monument. Visit Wallace Monument for more info.
The Battle of Bannockburn Visitor Centre
Step back in time over 700 years to find yourself at the heart of the action alongside Robert the Bruce in the Battle of Bannockburn. Immerse yourself in a digital recreation of the battle in the award-winning Battle of Bannockburn Experience. Visit the spot where Robert the Bruce raised the royal standard after the battle in the memorial park. Pre-book your spot before you visit. Stirling railway station is approximately 2 miles from the visitor centre. To find out more, visit The Bannockburn Visitor Centre.
Isle of Arran
A short train and ferry ride takes you to the Isle of Arran, known as Scotland in miniature. In April 2025, the island became a UNESCO Global Geopark recognised for its exceptional geological heritage, landscapes, wildlife, and history. Explore Brodick Castle, climb Goat Fell, or visit Glenashdale waterfalls. Or simply enjoy the coastal views and wildlife, and try some local treats.
Brodick Castle, Garden and Country Park
Brodick Castle is a short bus ride from the ferry terminal. It's also Britain’s only island country park. Step inside to see grand rooms and historic treasures. Outside, enjoy walks, waterfalls, and play areas. It’s a place for exploring, relaxing, and discovering Scotland’s past, all set against the backdrop of beautiful views of the bay and mountains. The castle is open from March to October, while the garden remains open year-round. Find out more at the National Trust for Scotland.
Goat Fell
If you like a challenge, start early and hike up Goat Fell. Climb 2,867 feet to Arran’s highest point for panoramic views of the Clyde, Arran’s rocky ridges and the Ayrshire coast. On clear days, you can even spot Ireland. The 360-degree scenery is unspoiled and worth the 5-6 hour round trip.
Glenashdale Falls and Giants' Graves
For a short, peaceful walk, head to Whiting Bay and follow the woodland trail to Glenashdale Falls, a tall double waterfall. Walk a bit further to find the Giants’ Graves, 2 ancient stone sites with stunning views over the bay and Holy Isle.
Lochranza Distillery
Situated in the beautiful village of Lochranza, this distillery is one of two working distilleries on Arran. Tours and tastings run every day, so you can learn about the processes and try their award-winning Arran Single Malt. You’ll also have a chance to try their Arran Gold Cream Liqueur. Book at Arran Whisky.
Arran Brewery
This friendly, independent brewery has been producing award-winning beers since 2000. Join a tour to learn how the beers are made and try a few, or book a tasting to sample their bestsellers like Blonde and Dark. Book at Arran Brewery.
Arran Cheese Shop
No trip to Arran is complete without visiting the island’s cheese shop. The shop makes and sells 13 varieties of flavoured cheddars. They also sell Arran Blue, Brie and Camembert, and other local food products. Watch the cheese being made and pick up tasty treats to take home. Find out more at Arran Cheese Shop.
Explore all that Scotland has to offer during a Glasgow short break. Check out ScotRail for information on direct rail services to Balloch, Ayr and Stirling from Glasgow city centre.
Article last updated: December 2025
