Best Things to Do in Central Scotland

Central Scotland sits between the Central Belt cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow and the Highland boundary fault. The things to do in Central Scotland are anchored by Loch Lomond, Scotland’s largest freshwater loch and the southern edge of the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park — the country’s first national park; Stirling Castle, perched on a volcanic crag and considered the most historically significant castle in Scotland (Mary Queen of Scots was crowned here in 1543); and the Falkirk Wheel, a rotating boat lift connecting the Forth & Clyde Canal to the Union Canal, an engineering marvel opened in 2002. The Kelpies, 30-meter steel horse-head sculptures at the Helix Park near Falkirk, have become one of Scotland’s most photographed modern landmarks. The Trossachs (the “Highlands in miniature”) offer glen walking, loch kayaking, and the Rob Roy country around Callander and Aberfoyle.

Best time to visit

May through September offers the most reliable weather, with long daylight hours (sunset past 9pm in June and July). Loch Lomond is very busy on summer weekends; mid-week visits avoid the worst of the crowds. October brings autumn colors to the glens, particularly beautiful in the Trossachs. Winter is cold and wet but atmospheric, with snow possible on the hills from November. The Hogmanay (New Year) celebrations in Stirling are notable.

Getting around

Loch Lomond’s western shore is served by train from Glasgow Queen Street to Balloch (45 minutes). The A82 road runs up the western shore; the eastern shore is less accessible by public transport. Stirling is 45 minutes by train from both Edinburgh and Glasgow. The Falkirk Wheel is 3 km from Falkirk Grahamston station. ScotRail’s Kyle Line and other scenic routes connect many Central Scotland towns. A hire car significantly expands access to the Trossachs interior.