A coast-to-coast across the heartland of Scotland — John Muir Way

The John Muir Way begins from the pretty Victorian coastal resort of Helensburgh.



Whilst this stage has the shortest distance of all routes along the way, it has the second greatest amount of ascent to contend with, making for a good warm-up.



From the stone plinth memorial to John Muir, which marks the… read more

This stage starts by exploring Balloch Castle Country Park; where you experience lovely views over Loch Lomond amid a stunning landscape.



You ascend gradually from the park and will notice the landscape change from farmland to rugged moorland as you get higher.



The trail passes woodlands, skirts Thief… read more

Signs of the Roman Empire are everywhere along the John Muir Way and this stage is your first introduction to that rich history.



From Strathblane, it’s level, easy-going walking to begin. You pass Dunglass and continue east where, after a few miles, you have the option to make a detour to see the eerie… read more

This stage follows the Forth and Clyde Canal for the most part; exploring great scenery, ancient forts and feats of modern engineering.



You begin by climbing Croy Hill, which has a Roman Fort and affords spellbinding views over the Kilsyth Hills, the Firth of Forth, Fife hills and Bar Hill fort.



The trail… read more

This stage starts by exploring Callendar Park, a stately estate that has been developed since the 12th century.



As you wander through the park you pass Callendar House, a French chateau style home from the 14th century. The trail then descends to the Union Canal and follows the towpath through the more… read more

This stage takes you along the Firth of Forth to Scotland’s capital city, Edinburgh.



From Bo’ness you pick up the trail along the Forth and follow the banks of the ever-widening estuary for the majority of the stage.



Along the way you pass Blackness Castle, an impressive 15th-century fortress, and Abercorn… read more

Stage 7 takes you from Corstorphine Hill, which affords wonderful views over the city and the Forth, right through the heart of Scotland’s capital.



If you have the time and legs for it, a detour into the heart of Edinburgh is highly recommended to take in sight such as Castle Rock, a volcanic plug in… read more

The landscape is a curious blend of patchwork fields, industrial heritage, grand castles and golden coastline.



From Prestonpans, you follow the Forth to Port Seton and soon arrive at Longniddry Bents, a beach and grassland with base-rich soils that allow rare plants to flourish.



The trail heads inland… read more

The final stage of the John Muir Way explores wonderful scenery bejewelled with natural havens and old ruins.



From North Berwick, you head inland. As you leave the town behind, you will see the tantalising North Berwick Law, a conical hill that rises abruptly from the landscape and affords superb views… read more