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.
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: October 2025
