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Summer walks

Top summer walks

Top summer walks

It's summertime. From scenic strolls to riverside wanders, check out 5 of the best walks in Glasgow this season.

1. Riverside walks in the heart of the city

A canoeist rides along a still river on a sunny day and is about to go beneath an ornate blue and white bridge. Trees overhang the banks of the river.
A red suspension bridge across a river. Victorian era sandstone buildings and trees line the riverbank.

See how Glasgow has changed over the ages with a walk along the River Clyde. Visit Glasgow’s Clyde Bridges Heritage Trail website for a walking route zig-zagging across the river's 21 bridges. Both modern and historic buildings line the river, as does the city’s oldest park, Glasgow Green.

2. Lively Barras Market

A red gantry sign reading 'The Barras' against a blue sky and an ornate stone building.

There's nothing more Glaswegian than a trip to the 100-year-old Barras Market in the east end. This historic area of the city is great to explore by foot, whether approaching from the city's oldest park, Glasgow Green, or through the medieval quarter. Enjoy the banter from traders as they sell everything from fashion and furniture to antiques and art. Take in the combination of old-school Glasgow and hipster style, with unique spots for dining. Visit The Barras Facebook page and visit our east end neighbourhood page for ideas.

3. Strolls in the southside

People walk and cycle around a pond in a city park on a sunny day. Trees and a church spire surround the pond.

Spend a summer's day out in one of the city's best known parks. Take a walk around the pond and the Scottish Poetry Rose Garden before taking in one of the city's best views at the flagpole. And be sure to visit one of the many ice cream shops in the trendy neighbourhoods surrounding the park. Visit our southside neighbourhood page for more on this popular area.

4. An historic university campus

Old style lampposts, green foliage and trees line a pathway beside a historic stone building on the University of Glasgow campus.

The University of Glasgow was officially named one of the most 'beautiful in Europe', by a study in May 2023. And we couldn't agree more! Walk around the Hogwarts-style campus, including the Cloisters and Quadrangles, and feel the old-worldly charm all around. Visit glasgow.ac.uk for campus details.

5. West end wanders along the river

A wide stone bridge crosses a river surrounded by green trees. The river flows into a mini waterfall.

You can take in as little or as much of the Kelvin Walkway as you desire. Acting as a 'green link' from the countryside to the city parks, the walk runs through the leafy west end, taking in Kelvingrove Park and Botanic Gardens. Before linking with the Forth and Clyde Canal and ending at the start of the West Highland Way. Visit walkhighlands.co.uk for details.

Article last updated: June 2024

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