As incredible as Glasgow is, sometimes you need to escape for a few days. Perfectly situated in the west of Scotland, there are plenty of great weekend breaks from Glasgow. Are you looking to visit another city or immerse yourself in the stunning nature of Scotland? Either way, we’ve rounded up the best Glasgow getaways to enjoy on your next long weekend or even for a quick night away.
1. Glen Coe
In the western nook of Scotland, you’ll find the village and valley of Glen Coe. It's known for two things: the infamous massacre of 1692 and its incredible natural beauty. This valley has been carved out by numerous glaciers and volcanic explosions, producing one of the most majestic landscapes in all of the Highlands. Home to red deer and golden eagles, there is an untamed wilderness to Glencoe, so we can think of no better place to escape the bustle of Glasgow. This is one of the best Glasgow getaways for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.
Things to do in Glen Coe:
-If you’re a movie buff, you’ll appreciate all the films that used this gorgeous region as a filming location. Glencoe has been the majestic backdrop for many films, including Skyfall and Harry Potter. We have a complete Harry Potter road trip for big fans of the franchise.
-Grab your walking boots and tackle one of the many great walking routes in Glen Coe. For example, the Glencoe Lochan trail takes you through woodland and along the serene Lochan over an hour of well-marked trails. Or walk to the viewing point of the Pap of Glencoe, known in Gaelic as Sgòrr na Cìche. This steep hill walk will take up to five hours, but the view from the top is definitely worth the effort.
-Now let’s turn our attention to some of the most important sights in the region. You can visit the Glencoe Massacre Monument to learn more about that terrible battle. At the Ballachulish Slate Quarry you can learn about the history of the quarry and working conditions. Finally, the Glencoe Visitor Centre is the perfect introduction to the region and a great place to start your trip.
Check out our day itinerary for a Glen Coe road trip for more tips.
2. Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park
Often overshadowed by its big sister, Loch Ness, you might be surprised to learn that Loch Lomond actually has the largest surface area of any loch in Scotland, stretching out over 28.5 square miles, which also makes it the largest inland stretch of water in all of Britain. This national park is within an hour’s drive of Glasgow, making it ideal for a night away as well as longer trips. Here you’ll find endless acres of woodland, home to various wildlife, and if you’re quiet enough, you might even spot red deer ambling about.
Things to do in Loch Lomond:
-You can visit the Maid of the Loch Museum to learn about the historic paddle steamer ship that is currently being restored on the Balloch Steam Slipway. Or if you’re travelling with little ones, embark on the mystical Faerie Trail. Starting at Luss, you’ll follow a map of magical spots using the clues given. Along the way, you’ll pass through fairytale gates, open spellbooks, and find more than initially meets the eye.
-Loch Lomond is widely considered to be one of the best wild swimming spots in the UK. So bring a bathing suit if you don’t mind a bit of chilly water. At least you won’t have to worry about pesky Nessie the Sea Monster. There are even organised events to go swimming as a group.
-If you’re looking for a challenge, you can walk part of the West Highland Way, as two sections of this 96-mile walking route hug the shores of Loch Lomond. You’ll pass a chain of islands that signify the threshold between the lowlands and highlands of Scotland, which is why Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park is seen as a gateway to the Scottish Highlands.
3. Edinburgh
If your perfect weekend breaks from Glasgow involve a city trip, we’ve got you covered with Edinburgh. Visiting the Scottish capital is far from your typical city trip, as Edinburgh is one of the UK’s most picturesque cities. Despite having a massive population and being a premiere student destination, Edinburgh looks like an oversized town with cobbled streets, plenty of greenery, colourful shops and a historic old town. It’s a hub of cultural experiences, so each visit will bring something completely different to do.
Things to do in Edinburgh:
-Were you, like the rest of the world, firmly glued to the latest Netflix hit, One Day? If so, you can visit famous sites from the show, including the university and walk up Arthur’s Seat. Be warned, it isn’t quite the casual stroll it’s made out to be, so bring plenty of water and wear good footwear.
-If Harry Potter is more your cup of tea, take the Potter Trail, a free tour of several locations that inspired the famous magical book series. For example, Diagon Alley was inspired by Candlemaker Row, and you’ll quickly see the similarities.
-The city is filled with live music, incredible bookstores, and plenty of cosy cafes. If you’re looking to head indoors for a bit, try the National Museum of Modern Art, which features works by both Picasso and Matisse. Or, for an activity that requires a little less thinking and a little more thrill, consider a visit to The Edinburgh Dungeon for a spooky trip to the past, where you can explore the darker side of Edinburgh.
4. Isle of Arran
Tucked off the west coast of Scotland, the Isle of Arran is closer than you expect. It takes only two and a half hours to get there, including the ferry ride. It’s the largest island in the Firth of Clyde and the seventh-largest Scottish island. The Isle of Arran offers a bit of everything you’d want in a Scottish island, including an ever-changing coastline, dramatic mountain peaks, lush forests, picturesque beaches, cultural festivals and tasty local produce. It is particularly beloved by geologists, bird watchers, and hikers.
Things to do on the Isle of Arran:
-Go wildlife spotting! As mentioned, the Isle of Arran is beloved by bird watchers, who flock to see the buzzards, kestrels, golden eagles and more. But that’s not the only wildlife you’ll see around the island. Keep an eye out for red deer, seals, porpoises, sharks and dolphins.
-There are plenty of great wild swimming spots on the Isle of Arran. We love Blackfoot Beach, as it tends to be very calm with minimal waves. There are miles of soft golden sands, so you won’t have to worry about treading over stones. One that’s recently become very popular is the Blue Pools of Glen Rosa, which feels absolutely magical at sunrise or sunset — but prepare yourself for the frigid temperatures!
-Fancy a drink during the latest of your Glasgow getaways? Head to Arran Whisky, an award-winning whisky distillery. Take a tour and tasting for a fun afternoon activity, with ‘Drivers Drams’ available for the designated driver to try them later. You’ll get to learn all about their famous whisky, which starts its life as Scottish rainwater at Loch Na Davie in the hills high above the distillery.
5. Galloway Forest Park
If you’re looking for weekend trips from Glasgow that involve plenty of nature, drop everything and head to Galloway Forest Park. Actually, pack everything and head there instead. It is often referred to as the ‘Highlands of the Lowlands,’ and you’ll quickly discover how Galloway Forest Park earned this prestigious title. We also recommend this gorgeous national park as one of the best weekend breaks from Edinburgh, so you could even combine it with a stop in the capital.
Things to do in Galloway Forest Park:
-Thousands upon thousands of cycling enthusiasts head to Galloway Forest Park each year for amazing trails. Expert riders will adore the Clatteringshaws Loch loop, which stretches over 49 miles from Newton Stewart to Galloway Forest Park. It’s mostly over paved surfaces but requires a high level of fitness.
-Galloway Forest Park is the only Dark Sky Park in Scotland. So on this trip, pitch your motorhome and partake in the simple yet underrated act of stargazing. Galloway Forest Park is also one of the best places to see the Northern Lights in Scotland.
-If you’re not sick of them yet, head to some majestic castles in the region. Caerlaverock Castle was built in the 13th century and has witnessed countless battles since, even playing a major role in the Scottish-English conflict. Or, if you’re looking to make education fun for little ones, plan a stop at The Whithorn Story. This museum and visitor centre brings history to life as you learn all about the arrival of pilgrims and the Reformation, and can explore the remains of Iron Age settlements.
Now we’ve reached the end of our best weekend trips from Glasgow. Whether you’re looking for Glasgow getaways into nature, a city trip, or a chance to sample plenty of Scottish whisky, we hope you found the right fit on this list.
If you have the time for a longer adventure, check out the best road trips in Scotland.
Hire a motorhome in Glasgow for your trip so the adventure starts at your doorstep, and the journey becomes a highlight too.
