Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park: Less than an hour from Glasgow, Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park is brimming with natural beauty. You can take a waterbus ride across the loch (the largest body of freshwater on the UK mainland), or take part in one of the water sports on offer (such as sailing, canoeing or water skiing). Land-based activities include horse riding, cycling and climbing — or you can simply enjoy a leisurely stroll and admire the spectacular scenery.
Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park: Also less than an hour from Glasgow is the Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park — the largest regional park in Scotland. Appreciate the beautiful scenery as you take on one of the walking routes through the park (which take between 20 minutes and 1.5 hours to complete), or enjoy a scenic bike ride instead. When you’re ready for a bite to eat, visit one of the cafés — or bring a picnic to eat in one of the designated picnic areas. The park is also home to the Hen Harrier, one of the UK’s rarest birds. Bring your binoculars and see if you can spot one for yourself!
Edinburgh: Since it’s just over an hour’s drive from Glasgow, why not pay a visit to Scotland’s capital? Visit Edinburgh’s famous castle (overlooking the city from its hilltop position on Castle Rock), then take a walk up the Royal Mile — the main thoroughfare in the old part of the city. If you’re visiting with children or teenagers, be sure to check out Camera Obscura and the World of Illusions (just outside the castle). With plenty of hands-on exhibits and interactive displays, you can work your way around six floors of optical illusions.