We are fortunate that where we live is right next to the Forth & Clyde canal path, which has great scope for walks or cycles. Our favourite thing to do is cycle to the Stables pub, which is just before Kirkintilloch (not to be confused with Lambhill Stables), and have lunch or drinks in their beer garden. It is also quite possible for keen cyclists to continue on to the Falkirk Wheel and even to the Kelpies. The latter is best done in summer when the days are longer. We also like to walk in the other direction (towards the city centre) to Claypits nature reserve and Speirs Wharf. In addition we have also enjoyed taking our canoe out for a few paddles along the canal.
To cycle at a very leisurely pace to the Stables takes us around 50 minutes each way from Maryhill Locks. The path is nice and flat, so it’s an easy ride. Along the way you pass Lambhill Stables, which has a cafe, and Possil Marsh, which is popular for birdwatching. It does tend to be fairly busy on a nice day, with both walkers and cyclists, and if you want to eat indoors at the pub then it is worth pre-booking. On a warm and sunny day, we always prefer to be outdoors and the large beer garden accommodates plenty of people.
As mentioned earlier, it is quite possible for keen cyclists to continue on from the Stables to the Falkirk Wheel and the Kelpies, both of which are very interesting to see.
Heading towards Glasgow, we also enjoy a walk or short cycle to Speirs Wharf, and now you can also visit the Claypits Nature Reserve on the same route (it was closed / still being worked on the last time we did this route). Ruchill Park is also just off this part of the canal path and is worth a side trip.
If you have enjoyed reading this page, you may be interested in our kindle guides, particularly West End Walks and 10 Great Days Out from Glasgow.
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