The best walks and hikes around Campsie
4.4
(909)
9,453
hikers
36
hikes
Hiking around Campsie explores a range of volcanic hills located just north of Glasgow, characterized by rolling moorland, steep escarpments, and wooded glens. The landscape features basalt formations, scenic waterfalls, and diverse habitats including dense forests and heather moorlands. Water is a prominent feature, with numerous burns and rivers weaving through picturesque valleys. The area provides a network of trails for various ability levels, from easy woodland strolls to more challenging hill climbs.
Best hiking trails around Campsie
- The most popular hiking route is View of Glasgow from Crow Road – Crichton's Cairn loop from Clachan of Campsie, a 6.7 miles (10.8 km) trail that takes 3 hours 34 minutes to complete. This moderate hike offers views over the city from the ridgeline.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Glen Burn Waterfall loop from Clachan of Campsie, an easy 2.8 miles (4.6 km) path. The route follows a woodland trail alongside the Glen Burn and its waterfalls.
- Local hikers also love the Lennox Castle Ruins – Ruins of Lennox Castle loop from Lennoxtown, a 4.2 miles (6.8 km) trail leading through varied terrain, often completed in about 1 hour 51 minutes.
- Hiking around Campsie is defined by open moorland, steep-sided glens, and waterfalls. The network of trails provides options for different ability levels, from easy woodland walks to more challenging hill climbs.
- The routes in Campsie are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 900 reviews. More than 9,600 hikers have used komoot to explore Campsie's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 22, 2026
3.8
(13)
125
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(5)
69
hikers
4.69km
01:28
180m
180m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.7
(6)
46
hikers
6.80km
01:51
100m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.2
(5)
22
hikers
9.70km
02:41
170m
170m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
36
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Campsie
Tips from the Community
The ruined remains of Lennox Castle. Originally built in ~1840 as a private property it was sold to The Glasgow Corporation (predecessor to the City Council) in 1927 and turned into a hospital for those with learning difficulties. In the 1940's-60's it also operated as a maternity home, and was the birth place of singer Lulu. It closed in 2002 and unfortunately was subject to a fire in 2008 which left it in its current state.
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Unfortunately everything is fenced off, walled up or otherwise blocked off. But not bad for a walk. Unfortunately, it seems that a bunch of unreasonable people throw their rubbish in the forest there. From up here, go down to a mountain bike trail.
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The best part of the route... very doable on a gravel bike
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Agree with the comments about the bogginess across the top. Best to go up after a few days of dry weather (doesn't make much difference to the bog, but you can work your way around it). The views from all three peaks up here are fabulous and well worth the effort and (likely) soggy boots !!!
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A dead stretch of road with no end and no beginning. Stunning in the summer, when the trees are in bloom.
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Easy access to a variety of hiking paths in the area. Some paths start as small dirt tracks and are difficult to spot, they’re on the north end.
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last stretch is not suitable for road bike tyres, but worth getting off and pushing. Eerie place with an interesting history, look it up! There's a gap in the perimeter fence you can easily get through.
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Ancient graveyard with ruined church, Kincaid-Lennox burial vault
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More Information
Frequently Asked Questions about Hiking in Campsie
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What are the best viewpoints in Campsie for hikers?
For breathtaking panoramas, be sure to visit Lovers Leap. Additionally, ascending Earl's Seat, the highest point in the area, or other notable hills like Holehead and Dumbreck, offers expansive views of the surrounding countryside. -
Are there any impressive waterfalls to discover on hikes around Campsie?
Yes, the Campsie region features several picturesque waterfalls. Muckle Alicompen and Jame's Linn are two beautiful examples that provide refreshing stops along various routes. -
What kind of landscapes and terrain will I encounter while hiking around Campsie?
You'll experience a diverse mix of landscapes, including dense forests, tranquil meadows, scrubland, and wetlands. The terrain varies from gentle hills to striking peaks, offering a captivating outdoor experience. -
Can I find easy hiking trails in Campsie suitable for beginners or families?
Absolutely. Routes like the Glen Burn Waterfall loop from Clachan of Campsie, spanning 4.57 km and taking about 1 hour 26 minutes, are considered easy and great for any fitness level. Another easy option is the Crichton's Cairn loop from Clachan of Campsie, which is 2.85 km and takes around 1 hour 9 minutes. -
What are some longer, more challenging hiking options in Campsie?
For a more substantial challenge, the moderate Crichton's Cairn – Lecket Hill loop from Clachan of Campsie covers 10.81 km and typically takes 3 hours 34 minutes. Another popular moderate choice is the Cort-ma-Law Summit – Crichton's Cairn loop from Clachan of Campsie, at 8.66 km and approximately 2 hours 46 minutes. -
Are there hiking routes that follow rivers or other water features in Campsie?
Yes, water is a prominent feature in Campsie. Many burns and rivers, including the Glazert Water and Finglen Burn, weave through the terrain, offering scenic routes through picturesque valleys and gorges. -
Is Campsie a good destination for nature enthusiasts?
Campsie is truly a haven for nature enthusiasts. With over half of its area covered in dense forests and a rich tapestry of meadows, scrubland, and wetlands, it provides abundant opportunities for peaceful outdoor exploration and wildlife spotting. -
How do other hikers rate the trails in Campsie overall?
The hiking trails in Campsie are highly regarded by the community, with an average rating indicating a positive experience from many fellow explorers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the hikes in the Campsie Fells difficult?
The Campsie Fells offer a great mix of difficulties. While there are challenging, steep climbs to summits like Dumgoyne and Earl's Seat, there are also plenty of easier options. You'll find 14 easy-rated trails in the area, perfect for beginners or those looking for a gentle walk.
Are there any family-friendly walks in the Campsies?
Yes, the area is well-suited for family outings. A great option is the Lennox Castle Ruins – Confluence of Two Rivers loop from Lennoxtown. It's a relatively flat and easy walk with the added interest of the castle ruins to explore.
Can I bring my dog on hikes in the Campsie Fells?
Dogs are generally welcome in the Campsie Fells, but be aware that you will be walking through farmland with livestock, especially sheep. It is crucial to keep your dog on a lead and under close control at all times to ensure the safety of the animals.
Is there a good waterfall walk in the area?
Absolutely. For a beautiful walk featuring waterfalls, the Glen Burn Waterfall loop from Clachan of Campsie is an excellent choice. This easy route follows a woodland path alongside the Glen Burn, offering lovely views of the cascades.
Where is the best place to park for hikes in the Campsie Fells?
A popular starting point with parking is the village of Clachan of Campsie. This provides access to several key routes, including trails into Campsie Glen and up onto the main ridge. Parking can be limited, especially on sunny weekends, so arriving early is recommended.
How can I get to the Campsie Fells from Glasgow using public transport?
Yes, the Campsie Fells are accessible from Glasgow. You can take a bus from central Glasgow to villages at the foot of the hills, such as Strathblane, Clachan of Campsie, or Lennoxtown. From there, you can walk directly to the trailheads. Always check the latest bus timetables before you travel.
What is the terrain like in the Campsie Fells?
The terrain is varied. Expect everything from gentle woodland paths and old railway lines to steep, grassy ascents up to the main escarpment. The higher plateaus, like the area around Earl's Seat, are often open moorland which can be very boggy and wet, even in summer. Proper waterproof hiking boots are essential.
What is the highest point in the Campsie Fells?
The highest point is Earl's Seat, which stands at 578 meters (1,896 ft). Reaching it involves a moorland walk that can be boggy but rewards you with panoramic views across to Loch Lomond and the Highlands on a clear day. It's often combined with a climb of the nearby peak, Dumgoyne.
Are there any good circular walks?
The Campsies are perfect for circular walks. A great example is the Cort-ma-Law Summit – Crichton's Cairn loop from Clachan of Campsie. This moderate route takes you across open moorland to a key summit, offering fantastic views without the same level of traffic as some other peaks.
What do other hikers think of the trails in Campsie?
The area is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.4 stars from over 280 reviews. Hikers often praise the stunning views over Glasgow and the surrounding countryside, the variety of trails, and the feeling of a proper hill walk so close to the city.
How many hiking trails are available around Campsie?
There are over 35 hiking routes to explore around Campsie on komoot. These range from easy woodland strolls and family-friendly paths to moderate ridgeline walks and a few difficult climbs for more experienced hikers.
Are there any pubs or cafes near the trailheads?
Yes, the villages surrounding the fells, such as Clachan of Campsie, Strathblane, and Lennoxtown, have pubs and cafes. They are perfect for a rewarding meal or drink after your hike. It's always a good idea to check their opening times in advance.
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