Parks in Glasgow are vital for the city’s residents as recreational centres and meeting places for friends and families. Pay a visit to any of the best parks in Glasgow and use the opportunity to interact with nature and get an energy boost.
For your best photographs in Glasgow
Glasgow Botanic Gardens should be on any visitor’s list for many reasons. Start with a visit to its unique glasshouse which has the richest collection of exotic plants in Scotland. Continue with an enjoyable stroll through the park. Complete your visit with a relaxing break in the garden’s tea room.
Pollok Country Park is by right one of the best parks in Glasgow. There is so much to see and do here. Its floral displays and vast greenhouses are a perfect set for stunning pictures. Enjoy a long walk along its endless walking paths in the vast gardens.
Keep your camera ready in case you are lucky to spot the famous Highland cows! Walk across the picturesque rustic bridge over the River Cart. Remember to pay a visit to the mansion of Sir John Stirling Maxwell, build in 1752. The park café is the place to go when the weather is not too nice.
Victoria Park in Glasgow boasts of the prettiest floral displays in the city. The comely carpet flowerbeds surround a lovely boating pond, the centre of attraction on a nice sunny afternoon.
For a slightly different experience, stop by the Fossil Grove. Here are the remnants of the ancient forest that once grew here and now is represented by its fossilized tree stumps.
For your long walks in Glasgow
Glasgow Green, a sheep grazing area in the past and now. The most historic park of Scotland stretches for miles from the Saltmarket to the Bridgeton district. As you stroll through the park, you will see many historical and architectural landmarks of the city. Your walk starts at the impressive old entrance arch that leads to Nelson’s Column at the end of the arrow-straight and beautifully trimmed park avenue.
Marvel at the intricate design of the suspension bridges across the River Clyde on your right. Spare some time to visit the Victorian Tropical plant glasshouse. Admire the architectural gem of the park, the Victoria Fountain.
Choose a clear sunny day to visit Queen’s Park for the best panoramas of Glasgow. This pretty park is surrounded by the trendy neighbourhoods of Glasgow. It offers an unobstructed view of the city up to the Campsie Fells and Ben Lomond. Add to it the charming Scottish Poetry Rose Garden, a vast boating pond regular entertainment staged in the park’s amphitheatre. You’ll see why this park is among the best parks in Glasgow.
Save a visit to Linn Park for a tranquil day of leisurely strolling and observation. This is the best park in Glasgow for a relaxing day outdoors. The park’s vast woodland space facilitates meditative walks by the riverside. Walk around the remains of Cathcart Castle that Mary Queen of Scotts is rumoured to have visited. Admire the architecture of the Holmwood House, an impressive villa designed by Alexander Thompson.
For a day out with family and friends
Kelvingrove Park is one of the best parks in Glasgow for being with family and friends. It is very close to the main tourist attractions and makes for a perfect break from sightseeing. Stop by the Stewart Memorial Fountain for a refreshing break. From here, you are a step away from the University of Glasgow, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and The Hunterian Museum and Art Gallery. The park’s water features and the river Kelvin valley are the main natural attractions of the park.
Cathkin Braes Country Park lies 200 metres above sea level. No wonder it offers unrivalled panoramas of the city’s skyline. Thanks to its location, this is the best park in Glasgow for cycling and active sports. The park has endless cycling routes and mountain bike trails. This is why the park was host to cycling events during the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games. This park is a Scottish pioneer among sustainable parks as it sources its energy from its own wind turbine.
For exploring nature at the Hidden Gardens
Another exciting eco-friendly project of Glasgow is the Hidden Gardens. This is the best park in Glasgow to come to direct contact with nature. Guests can admire the garden’s selection of plants and flowers and participate.
For a deeper insight into nature’s ways. Why not participate in the interactive experience where children and adults discover the bases of plant care. Hidden gardens park is a fusion between a back garden and an environmental artwork design. That is to expand Glasgow’s green space and connect citizens with nature.
The Forth and Clyde Canal in the north of the city is not quite an organized park. However, it is well worth a visit if you are after some fresh air and a waterside walk only five minutes away from the busy city centre. This vast green space is amazing for wildlife spotting, including kingfishers, beavers and otters.
There are many lovely Glasgow parks you can visit whilst you are visiting the city. But, you’ll need somewhere to stay so you can see them all… Browse our range of serviced apartments in Glasgow, close to the city centre and the main attractions and pick a place that suits you.