One of the best times of the year to get outside with the family, there are plenty of places to head to leaf peep as the colours of the season change.
Autumn is the perfect time for family walks, and Glasgow offers plenty of green spaces and nearby scenic landscapes to enjoy the season’s colours.(Image: Reach )
As we welcome the cosiest season of the year, it’s time to dust off those jackets and scarves. Autumn is a fantastic time to venture outdoors with the family, with an array of locations perfect for admiring the changing colours of the season.
Glasgow is not only blessed with numerous green spaces within its city limits, but it’s also a stone’s throw away from some of Scotland’s most stunning landscapes.
Whether you’re looking for an adventure within the city or a scenic drive just an hour away, here are some of the best autumn walks in and around Glasgow, as reported by reports Glasgow Live.
1. Pollok Park, Southside
Often overshadowed by the more accessible Queen’s Park, Pollok Park offers just as much, if not more, than its urban counterpart.
Although Pollok House is currently closed, with the stables and sawmill being converted into a Living Heritage Centre, the park’s grounds remain open for exploration.
Pollok Park’s famous coos(Image: Glasgow City Council )
With picturesque scenes at every turn, you can easily spend an hour wandering through the various woodlands (where you’ll find those wonderful autumnal hues), gardens and lawns.
And let’s not forget the park’s famous residents – the Highland cows who are always pleased to greet visitors.
2. Rouken Glen Park Walk, Southside
This delightful circular walk in Rouken Glen Park is suitable for all ages. The paths are well maintained and the waterfall is certainly worth a visit.
There’s a charming boating pond, as well as woodland and meadow areas. After rainfall, the trails can get muddy, so it’s recommended to wear waterproof footwear.
There are also numerous connecting paths for you to discover.
Don’t forget, if you fancy a small snack or even a hot beverage, both the boathouse near the pond and the garden centre do brisk business.
3. White Cart Water Loop at Linn Park, southside
This family-friendly route winds through woodlands and along the river, offering views over the water and opportunities to spot wildlife. Please be aware that this trail can become quite crowded on weekends and holidays, and some parts of the route are very narrow.
Regarded as one of the best inner-city woodland walks, you can also pop into the nearby Old Smiddy for a small bite to eat afterwards.
The paths can also become very muddy in wet weather, so suitable footwear is recommended.
4. The Gleniffer Braes, Near Paisley
One location that’s sure to attract visitors is the Gleniffer Braes, not too far from Glasgow (near Paisley). It offers plenty of space to run around, woodland to explore and even a play park.
Gleniffer Braes near Paisley boasts of beautiful woodland walks, a play park, and stunning views over Glasgow.(Image: Getty Images)
But that’s not all, this country park also boasts some of the most breathtaking views of the city.
5. Chatelherault Country Park, near Hamilton.
Located in Hamilton and just 25 minutes from Glasgow, Chatelherault Country Park is brimming with activities.
One of Scotland’s oldest and most beautifully designed estates, it is perfectly suited for visitors – particularly families with pets as there is so much to explore.
Make your way to the remarkable Duke’s bridge that stretches across the gorge below, offering breathtaking views that were hidden for years. You can admire the golds, reds, oranges and yellows below as well as the river.
There’s even an adventure park for the little ones to let off some steam.
6. Dollar Glen, Dollar
Perfect for a wee day trip away from the city, one location not too far from Glasgow – precisely a 55-minute drive – Dollar Glen in Clackmannanshire provides a splendid autumn adventure.
Described as one of Scotland’s most “amazing” autumn walks by the National Trust for Scotland, the route is a sanctuary for wildlife, stunning scenery and towering trees and rolling hills – plus a fantastic country pub, The Forager gastropub, at the end.
Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community!
Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today.
You’ll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland.
No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team.
All you have to do is click here if you’re on mobile, select ‘Join Community’ and you’re in!
If you’re on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click ‘Join Community’.
We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like.
To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose ‘exit group’.
If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.
7. New Lanark
This place is simply stunning – why aren’t we all visiting New Lanark more often?
People from around the globe descend on this historic corner of Scotland during peak tourist seasons, so perhaps autumn is the best time for us locals to reignite our love for the great outdoors.
The magnificent waterfalls here, on the River Clyde, have been wowing visitors for centuries. Corra Linn is the highest, with a fall of 84 feet.