The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Banton
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Family friendly hiking trails around Banton, Scotland, offer a mix of canal paths, lochside walks, and gentle ascents to viewpoints. The region is characterized by its accessible terrain, including sections of the Forth and Clyde Canal Towpath and the tranquil Banton Loch. Hikers can explore areas with historical significance, such as Roman heritage sites near Kilsyth, alongside natural landscapes. These Banton walking trails provide varied scenery suitable for all ages and abilities.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Banton
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Silvanus Roman Head Sculpture – Auchinstarry Marina loop from Kilsyth, a 2.9 miles (4.7 km) trail that takes 1 hour 16 minutes to complete. This easy route features a blend of canal-side walking and views of the Roman Head Sculpture.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Tak-Ma-Doon Road – View from Croy Hill Trig Point loop from Tak Ma Doon Road Viewing and Picnic Area, an easy 2.2 miles (3.6 km) path. This route offers panoramic views from Croy Hill Trig Point, traversing open landscapes.
- Local hikers also love the Forth and Clyde Canal Towpath – Banton Loch loop from Kelvinhead, a 5.3 miles (8.5 km) trail leading through canal towpaths and around Banton Loch, often completed in about 2 hours 14 minutes.
- Hiking around Banton is defined by canal towpaths, lochside paths, and gentle hills, with options for different ability levels. The network includes easy family friendly hikes and moderate routes.
- The routes in Banton are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 340 reviews. More than 3,200 hikers have used komoot to explore Banton's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
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34
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
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8.55km
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Ah, Banton Loch, or as it was once known, Townhead Reservoir. Now, there’s a place that’s brimming with stories. It’s nestled on the east side of Kilsyth in North Lanarkshire, Scotland, a mere 21 kilometres north-east of Glasgow. This man-made marvel, built in 1770 to feed water into the canal, was once the largest reservoir in Scotland. It’s a freshwater lake, impounded by earthwork dams, sitting pretty at 86 metres above sea level. The loch stretches about 1 kilometre in length with a maximum width of about 280 metres1. It’s fed by a number of burns draining the Kilsyth Hills to its north. Now, if you’re a history buff, you’ll be thrilled to know that the battlefield of the 15 August 1645 Battle of Kilsyth between Scottish Royalists and Covenanters is thought to be in the vicinity of the loch. The exact position remains a subject of debate, but it’s a fascinating piece of history nonetheless.
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Created by artist Svetlana Kondakova and Big Red Blacksmiths, the sculpture looks out from the line of the Antonine Wall across the Kelvin Valley towards what the Romans considered ‘barbarian’ territory, beyond the edge of the Roman Empire.
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Good view, benches invite you to linger
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Tomtain is the most easterly of the Kilsyth Hills & the Campsie Fells. At 453m it isn't the highest but its position gives it prominence and a great view. It's often climbed from the road to the east but can be incorporated into a great running loop along the ridge from the Carron Valley Reservoir.
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Great spot to pose for a family photo :)
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Just off the forth and clyde canal path is a great place to stop for a break on way to the kelpies. There's also a short trek up to the top but you can't get all the way round too over grown.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Banton?
Our guide features 6 family-friendly hiking trails around Banton, with 4 of them rated as easy, making them perfect for all ages and skill levels.
Are there any circular routes suitable for families in Banton?
Yes, several routes offer a convenient loop experience. For example, the Silvanus Roman Head Sculpture – Auchinstarry Marina loop from Kilsyth is an easy 4.7 km circular hike. Another great option is the Forth and Clyde Canal Towpath – Banton Loch loop from Kelvinhead, which is a moderate 8.5 km loop.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes in Banton?
The family-friendly trails around Banton generally feature gentle paths and manageable terrain. Many routes, like those along the Forth and Clyde Canal Towpath, are relatively flat. Some trails may include slight elevation changes, such as the Tak-Ma-Doon Road – View from Croy Hill Trig Point loop, which offers a bit more ascent for those looking for a slightly more active walk.
Are there any interesting historical or natural landmarks to see on these trails?
Absolutely! Many trails offer glimpses of local history and natural beauty. You can explore the area around the Auchinstarry Quarry, or discover the Rough Castle Fort and Lilia Pits. The Silvanus Roman Head Sculpture – Auchinstarry Marina loop specifically highlights a Roman-era sculpture.
What do other hikers say about the family-friendly trails in Banton?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained paths, the scenic views, and the suitability of the routes for families with children.
Are there any trails that feature waterfalls near Banton?
Yes, for those interested in waterfalls, the Colzium Waterfall is a notable natural monument in the vicinity of Banton that you might enjoy exploring.
Which trails are best for a shorter family walk?
For a shorter family walk, the Tak-Ma-Doon Road – View from Croy Hill Trig Point loop is an excellent choice, covering about 3.6 km. Another option is the Silvanus Roman Head Sculpture – Croy Hill Roman Fort loop, which is approximately 3.5 km and also rated easy.
Are there any viewpoints along the family-friendly routes?
Yes, several routes offer scenic viewpoints. The Tak-Ma-Doon Road – View from Croy Hill Trig Point loop provides panoramic views from Croy Hill. Additionally, the Cort-ma-Law Summit is a prominent viewpoint in the wider Banton area.
Can we find trails that are suitable for strollers or prams?
While specific stroller accessibility can vary, routes along canal towpaths, such as sections of the Forth and Clyde Canal Towpath – Banton Loch loop, often feature smoother, flatter surfaces that may be more suitable for strollers. We recommend checking the route details for specific terrain information.
What is the longest family-friendly trail available?
The longest family-friendly trail in this guide is the Forth and Clyde Canal Towpath – Banton Loch loop from Kelvinhead, which spans approximately 8.5 km and is rated as moderate.
Are there any trails that pass by a lake or reservoir?
Yes, the Forth and Clyde Canal Towpath – Banton Loch loop takes you around Banton Loch, offering pleasant waterside views. The North Third Reservoir is also a notable body of water in the broader region.
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