Strathclyde: The Best Things to Do

Ardmucknish Bay

Strathclyde

Strathclyde is located in the west-central part of the country, stretching from the coastline facing the Isle of Mull on its northwestern border to the outskirts of Dumfries and Galloway on its southern edge.

Second only to the Highlands in size, it encompasses several counties including Argyll and Bute, Ayrshire, Dunbartonshire, Lanarkshire, and Renfrewshire.

The geography of Strathclyde is diverse and boasts a wide range of landscapes. The region is characterized by a stunning mix of rugged mountains, serene lochs, and lush forests, with a wild and remote coastline that’s a haven for wildlife.

Strathclyde is also known for its rivers and lochs, the two most famous being the River Clyde which flows through the heart of Glasgow to its source in the Moffat Hills, and Loch Lomond which is the largest body of water by surface area in the United Kingdom.

Loch Lomond

Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city, is brimming with tourist attractions and features artistic murals, Victorian architecture, and a wide array of museums and galleries as well as a beautiful cathedral and some of the best dining experiences in Scotland.

The Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park is arguably the crown jewel of the entire region, renowned for its sparkling lochs and enormous forests. A paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, it offers near-limitless activities from hiking up Ben Lomond to cycling through the Queen Elizabeth Forest Park.

Tourists in Strathclyde can also explore the region’s fascinating history.

The area is dotted with castles and historic sites that tell tales of Scotland’s past including the 18th-century Inveraray Castle which is a must-visit, and Dumbarton Castle which presents stunning views of the Clyde from its viewpoint on top of a promontory overlooking the river.

There are several islands within the Strathclyde region that are also worth mentioning, the highlight of which has to be the Isle of Arran, often referred to as ‘Scotland in Miniature’.

Isle of Arran

This island is a microcosm of Scotland at large and features a landscape that comprises mountain peaks (Goatfell is a fantastic climb), soft sandy beaches and expansive forests.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or a city explorer, Strathclyde has something for everyone.


Find places to visit and things to do in Strathclyde with these visitor guides.


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