Three famous routes to walk or cycle

The John Muir Way is a 134-mile route from Helensburgh to Dunbar but is easily split into sections which can be walked, wheeled or cycled for a great day out.

Thousands of years of history are connected by the popular path as it winds its way through Scotland’s first national park, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs, and along the stunning coastline of East Lothian.

Along the route you’ll come across an abundance of historic landmarks. One of our favourite sections runs from Linlithgow to South Queensferry and includes gems like Linlithgow Palace and Peel, Kinneil House and Blackness Castle. The start of the route can be reached by public transport via trains on the Glasgow-Edinburgh line.

Discover the John Muir Way

The Caledonian Canal journeys through the Great Glen from Fort William to Inverness. The canal connects several lochs on its 60 mile route: Loch Lochy, Oich, Ness and Dochfour. Engineered by Thomas Telford, it is an exceptional example of how our waterways provided crucial trade and transport routes.

Today you can take a walk or cycle along the well-maintained towpaths that form part of the National Cycling Network Route 78 and The Caledonia Way and marvel at the feats of engineering, such as the locks which you’ll come across on your journey.

Trains and bus services are available to reach different parts of the canal. In particular, the sections near Fort Augustus and Inverness are widely accessible to a range of users. The canal passes many key heritage sites, making it a history-packed tour no matter how far you choose to travel.

Discover The Caledonia Way

The Antonine Wall stretches across Scotland, forming the north-west frontier of the Roman Empire. It is part of the Frontiers of the Roman Empire World Heritage Site. Unlike Hadrian’s Wall, this one was built with turf layers, some reaching 3 metres in height. The wall is dotted with fascinating traces of Roman life, including forts, signal stations and even a bath house. 

There are many fantastic walks along the Antonine Wall that suit different abilities. A 6.5 mile route from Walk Highlands starting at Auchinstarry Marina takes you along parts of the wall. Get to the start of the route by taking the train to Croy and walk 1 mile to Auchinstarry Marina. On this 4-hour walk you’ll really be able to delve into Scotland’s rich Roman history.

For completists, the Antonine Wall Trail is 47 miles (75km) long and allows you to walk as closely as possible to the route of the wall.

Trips along the Anontine Wall