Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park
Explore Scotland’s largest national park, where majestic lochs, rugged mountains, and rich wildlife create an unforgettable natural and cultural experience.
Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, located near Balloch in Alexandria, Scotland, is a vast natural sanctuary spanning 1,865 sq km. It features the UK's largest lake, rugged mountains, tranquil lochs, ancient forests, and diverse wildlife. The park is renowned for its stunning landscapes where lowlands meet highlands, offering visitors rich cultural heritage, outdoor adventures, and peaceful nature escapes.
A brief summary to Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park
- Alexandria, Balloch, G83 8QX, GB
- +441389722600
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 8 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit the Balmaha Visitor Centre for maps, weather updates, and helpful advice to enhance your park experience.
- Explore some of the park’s famous waterfalls like Bracklinn Falls and Grey Mare’s Tails for stunning photo opportunities.
- Consider hiking sections of the West Highland Way to experience iconic trails and breathtaking views.
- Respect seasonal camping byelaws from March to September and camp only in designated areas or with permits.
- Look out for native wildlife such as red squirrels and golden eagles, especially in forested and mountainous areas.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Train and Bus
Take a train from Glasgow Queen Street to Balloch station, which takes approximately 50 minutes. From Balloch, local buses or a short taxi ride can take you to various park entry points. Train tickets range from £6 to £12 one way, with buses costing around £3.
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Car
Driving from Glasgow to the park’s Balloch area takes about 40 to 50 minutes via the A82. Parking is available at visitor centres and trailheads but can be limited during peak seasons. Parking fees vary between £2 and £5 depending on location.
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Bus
Regular bus services run from Stirling to Balloch and other towns within the park, with journey times between 1 hour and 1 hour 30 minutes. Bus fares typically cost £5 to £8. Services may be less frequent on weekends.
Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
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Cold Weather
Discover more about Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park
A Majestic Scottish Landscape Where Highlands Meet Lowlands
Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park is a spectacular expanse of natural beauty covering 1,865 square kilometers in central Scotland. It is famed for its dramatic scenery where the rolling lowlands blend seamlessly into rugged highland mountains. The park encompasses 22 lochs, including Loch Lomond—the largest freshwater lake in the UK—39 miles of coastline, and 21 Munros (mountains over 3,000 feet). This diverse terrain creates a striking contrast of tranquil waters, dense woodlands, and towering peaks that captivate visitors year-round.Rich Wildlife and Conservation Efforts
The park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, hosting a wide array of species such as red squirrels, golden eagles, ospreys, pine martens, otters, and black grouse. Various conservation projects actively protect and enhance these habitats, ensuring the survival of native flora and fauna. The presence of ancient standing stones dating back 3,000 to 5,000 years adds archaeological significance to the natural environment, intertwining Scotland’s cultural heritage with its wild landscapes.Outdoor Activities and Iconic Trails
Visitors can enjoy a multitude of outdoor activities including hiking, cycling, birdwatching, and water sports. The park is intersected by six of Scotland’s Great Trails, including the famous West Highland Way, offering routes for all levels of adventurers. Waterfalls such as Bracklinn Falls and the Grey Mare’s Tails provide scenic highlights, while the many islands on Loch Lomond, some large enough for farms, invite exploration and discovery.Historic Villages and Cultural Heritage
The park includes charming towns and villages like Balloch and Balmaha, where visitor centres provide helpful information and local insights. These settlements reflect a working landscape shaped by generations, with ruins, castles, and historic sites that tell stories of Scotland’s past. The island of Inchlonaig, once planted with yew trees by King Robert the Bruce, exemplifies the deep historical roots embedded within the park.Visitor Facilities and Access
Balmaha’s visitor centre offers maps, weather forecasts, and educational activities, serving as a gateway to the park’s wonders. The park is easily accessible from Glasgow, Stirling, and Edinburgh, with public transport and cycle routes encouraging sustainable travel. Seasonal byelaws regulate camping to protect the environment, and visitors are encouraged to follow responsible practices to preserve this treasured landscape.A Living Landscape of Natural and Cultural Significance
Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park is more than just a scenic destination; it is a living landscape where nature, history, and community intertwine. It offers a unique opportunity to reconnect with the outdoors, witness Scotland’s rich biodiversity, and experience the cultural heritage that has shaped this remarkable region for millennia.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Historic Scotland
10.2 km
Discover the architectural beauty and historical significance of Historic Scotland in Port Glasgow, a perfect destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Argyll Walks
10.9 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Scotland with Argyll Walks, where guided tours meet stunning natural beauty and rich cultural experiences.
Loch Lomond
11.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Loch Lomond, Scotland's largest freshwater lake, offering stunning landscapes and endless outdoor adventures.
Blantyre Monument
11.9 km
An 80-foot obelisk in Bishopton honoring Major-General Robert Walter Stuart, the 11th Lord Blantyre, and his Napoleonic War legacy.
Formakin House
11.9 km
Discover Formakin House, a stunning castle in Bishopton, surrounded by breathtaking nature and steeped in rich Scottish history.
Lyle Fountain
12.8 km
Historic Victorian drinking fountain in Greenock’s Cathcart Square, gifted by Abram Lyle with elegant filigree dome and rich local heritage.
Auchmountain Glen
12.9 km
Explore Auchmountain Glen: A historical gem in Greenock offering stunning landscapes, rich culture, and serene walking trails for every traveler.
Pandamonium Play Centre
14.0 km
Visit Pandamonium Play Centre in Erskine for an unforgettable day of fun and excitement for children, featuring interactive play zones and lovable mascot entertainers.
Lyle Hill Viewpoint
14.4 km
Experience the stunning vistas and tranquil ambiance at Lyle Hill Viewpoint, a must-visit scenic point in Greenock, Scotland.
Golden Hill Antonine Wall Fort
14.5 km
Discover the ancient history at Golden Hill Antonine Wall Fort in Clydebank, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing Roman military architecture.
Granny Kempock Stone
15.6 km
Explore the enchanting Granny Kempock Stone in Gourock, a historical landmark that blends folklore with breathtaking coastal views, ideal for every traveler.
Loch Lomond National Park Memorial
16.3 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Loch Lomond National Park Memorial, a serene tribute nestled in Scotland's breathtaking landscapes.
International Asbestos Memorial
16.6 km
Discover the International Asbestos Memorial in Clydebank, a serene place of reflection honoring victims of asbestos-related diseases.
Titan Clydebank
16.6 km
Explore Titan Clydebank, a historic shipbuilding landmark offering stunning views and rich maritime heritage in the heart of Clydebank.
Walkinshaw Brickworks
17.5 km
Explore the historic site of Walkinshaw Brickworks, a cornerstone of Renfrew’s industrial past and Scottish brickmaking heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Balloch Castle Country Park
0.3 km
Explore 200 acres of historic gardens, woodland trails, and scenic Loch Lomond views at Balloch Castle Country Park, a tranquil heritage retreat.
Maid of The Loch
0.5 km
Explore Scotland’s last paddle steamer, the Maid of The Loch, a historic vessel and museum on Loch Lomond’s scenic southern shore.
SEA LIFE Loch Lomond Aquarium
0.6 km
Discover Scotland’s largest shark collection and playful otters in an immersive underwater journey on the stunning shores of Loch Lomond.
Loch Lomond Shores
0.7 km
A dynamic waterfront destination blending shopping, dining, outdoor adventures, and stunning views on Loch Lomond’s southern shore.
Hawkshead
0.7 km
Experience the perfect blend of stunning loch views, outdoor adventures, shopping, and family-friendly fun at Loch Lomond Shores.
Sweeney's Cruise Co Loch Lomond
0.8 km
Relax and explore Loch Lomond’s stunning landscapes aboard Sweeney’s comfortable and informative cruises from Balloch.
Balloch
0.9 km
Discover Balloch, the charming gateway village to Loch Lomond, blending scenic beauty, rich heritage, and family-friendly adventures on Scotland’s iconic loch.
Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre
0.9 km
Discover majestic birds of prey up close in a serene woodland sanctuary on the shores of Loch Lomond.
Loch Lomond Seaplanes
1.4 km
Discover Scotland’s stunning landscapes from the sky with thrilling seaplane flights over Loch Lomond and beyond.
Caulders Garden Centre Loch Lomond
1.7 km
Discover vibrant plants, unique gifts, and award-winning dining set against the stunning backdrop of Loch Lomond’s hills.
Duck Bay
1.8 km
Tranquil lakeside retreat with stunning Loch Lomond views, cozy rooms, and welcoming dining on Scotland’s scenic shores.
Ben View Antiques
2.0 km
Discover timeless antiques and vintage treasures in the heart of Alexandria’s Lomond Galleries at Ben View Antiques.
The Cruin
2.9 km
Elegant dining and unforgettable weddings on the serene shores of Loch Lomond within private estate gardens.
Auchentullich Farm Shop
4.9 km
Discover authentic Scottish farm produce and heritage at Auchentullich Farm Shop, a family-run gem near Loch Lomond.
Loch Lomond National Nature Reserve (Endrick Mouth)
6.3 km
Experience the serene beauty and rich wildlife of Scotland’s iconic Loch Lomond National Nature Reserve at Endrick Mouth.
Essential places to dine
Jurassic Grill Loch Lomond
0.7 km
Family-friendly dinosaur-themed restaurant near Loch Lomond offering fun decor, interactive service, and hearty British-style meals.
Waterhouse Inn Balloch
0.8 km
Traditional Scottish inn with modern comforts, warm hospitality, and a prime location near Loch Lomond’s scenic beauty.
Mavi Kitchen & Bar
0.8 km
A vibrant grill and Mediterranean kitchen in Balloch offering great food, friendly service, and a lively atmosphere from breakfast to late night.
The Pier Kitchen & Bar
0.8 km
Enjoy fresh Scottish flavors and stunning Loch Lomond views at The Pier Kitchen & Bar, Balloch’s scenic dining destination.
Cucina
0.8 km
Savor hearty Italian classics and vibrant atmosphere in Balloch’s contemporary Cucina, near the scenic Loch Lomond.
Tullie Inn
0.8 km
Charming Scottish pub and inn by Loch Lomond offering hearty fare, cozy rooms, and stunning waterfront views in Balloch.
Lomond Fish Bar
0.8 km
A classic Scottish fish and chip shop in Balloch, serving golden battered fish, thick-cut chips, and hearty pies in a no-frills, family-run setting.
The Lounge at Loch Lomond
0.9 km
Authentic Indian flavors and warm hospitality await at The Lounge, your relaxed dining spot near Loch Lomond in Balloch.
The Boat House
1.1 km
Waterfront dining with panoramic Loch Lomond views in Scotland's premier lakeside resort.
McDonald's
1.1 km
Classic American fast food served 24/7 in Balloch, near Loch Lomond’s scenic beauty and top attractions.
Duck Bay Hotel & Restaurant
1.8 km
Scenic lochside retreat with modern dining, cozy rooms, and warm Scottish hospitality on the banks of Loch Lomond.
The Riverside Bar & Restaurant
3.7 km
A welcoming Scottish pub and restaurant in Bonhill offering traditional fare, lively nights, and a friendly community vibe on Main Street.
Inchmurrin Restaurant
3.9 km
Dine on fresh local fare with stunning Loch Lomond views on the peaceful, ferry-accessed Inchmurrin Island.
The Clubhouse at Cameron
4.7 km
Modern European dining with scenic views at Cameron Club & Spa on Loch Lomond, offering fresh, locally inspired dishes and warm hospitality.
Haveli Family Buffet Restaurant
7.2 km
A family-run buffet in Dumbarton offering a vibrant mix of Indian, Chinese, and Western dishes with friendly service and great value.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Wild Highlands Coffee House
0.4 km
Savor premium small-batch coffee with breathtaking Loch Lomond views at Balloch’s iconic Maid of The Loch pier.
The Personalised Drinks Company Ltd
0.5 km
Crafting bespoke beverages tailored for weddings and special occasions in the heart of Balloch, Alexandria.
Leading Labels Ltd
0.7 km
Discover stylish designer fashion and accessories at Leading Labels Ltd, nestled in the scenic beauty of Loch Lomond Shores.
Loch Lomond News
0.7 km
Discover Loch Lomond News, your local hub for newspapers, souvenirs, and a taste of Scottish culture amid breathtaking landscapes.
Grape Tree Loch Lomond
0.7 km
Discover organic health foods and wellness products in the heart of Loch Lomond Shores, where nature meets nutrition.
Loch Lomond Jewellers
0.7 km
Discover exquisite jewellery and luxury watches in the heart of scenic Loch Lomond Shores, blending craftsmanship with natural beauty.
French Connection
0.7 km
Discover stylish contemporary fashion at French Connection within the scenic Loch Lomond Shores retail village in Balloch.
Camille Lingerie
0.7 km
Explore the elegance of Camille Lingerie in Balloch, where comfort meets style amidst the beauty of Loch Lomond.
thorntons, Balloch Franchise Store
0.7 km
Premium British chocolates at Scotland's gateway to Loch Lomond, nestled in a world-class leisure destination.
Catherine Kinloch
0.7 km
A traditional Scottish shoe shop offering comfortable, well-made footwear in the heart of Loch Lomond Shores – perfect for updating your walking shoes with a view.
Phase Eight at House of Fraser
0.8 km
Elegant women's fashion and occasionwear at Phase Eight inside Frasers, set against the stunning backdrop of Loch Lomond Shores.
Keepsake Scotland
0.8 km
Modern Scottish gifts and souvenirs in a scenic Loch Lomond Shores setting, blending tradition with contemporary charm.
House of Fraser
0.8 km
A comprehensive department store nestled in the scenic Loch Lomond Shores, offering fashion, beauty, and homewares for the whole family.
Clarins House of Fraser Loch Lomond
0.8 km
Experience premium Clarins beauty products in the elegant House of Fraser store, set against the stunning backdrop of Loch Lomond Shores.
Loch Lomond Gift House
0.8 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and Highland wear in the heart of Balloch, just steps from Loch Lomond’s scenic shores.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Balloch House
0.7 km
Historic Scottish pub and hotel offering cozy charm and lakeside access at the gateway to Loch Lomond.
Monkey Island Cafe Bar
0.8 km
Relax riverside with stunning Loch Lomond views, great drinks, and friendly vibes at Monkey Island Cafe Bar in Balloch.
Dog House
0.8 km
A lively, dog-friendly pub in Balloch blending traditional charm with modern comfort and vibrant local spirit.
Glenroy Bar
0.8 km
A lively Scottish bar in Balloch blending local charm, Indian flavors, and live entertainment in a warm, welcoming setting.
Queen Of The Loch
1.0 km
A friendly pub and inn near Loch Lomond offering hearty meals, comfortable stays, and a welcoming atmosphere for families and pets alike.
The Lobby Bar
1.4 km
Elegant bar at Cameron House offering refined drinks and stunning Loch Lomond views within a historic Scottish estate.
Fentons Bar
1.4 km
A friendly and affordable pub in Jamestown, Alexandria, offering a warm local atmosphere and late-night socializing on Main Street.
The Tavern
1.5 km
Lively family-friendly bar with hearty fare, live sports, and local music at Cameron House on scenic Loch Lomond.
Great Scotts Bar
1.5 km
Discover Scotland’s whisky heritage with over 250 whiskies and stunning Loch Lomond views at the Great Scots Bar, Cameron House’s iconic lochside retreat.
The Old Vale Bar
3.0 km
Historic Scottish pub blending traditional hospitality with a cozy, modern vibe in the heart of Alexandria.
Waverley Bar
7.3 km
A cozy and friendly pub in Dumbarton’s West Bridgend, offering local ales, live music, and a spacious beer garden for a true Scottish experience.
The Lennox Bar
7.4 km
A classic, welcoming pub on Dumbarton's High Street offering affordable drinks and a genuine local atmosphere.
The Burgh Bar
7.5 km
A welcoming and lively pub on Dumbarton's High Street, known for its friendly vibe and late-night social scene.
The Captain James Lang - JD Wetherspoon
7.5 km
A welcoming JD Wetherspoon pub in Dumbarton serving classic British fare and local ales in a casual, accessible setting.
Argyll Bar
9.1 km
A cozy and traditional Helensburgh pub offering lively entertainment, local charm, and a welcoming atmosphere on East Clyde Street.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Desire Nightclub
0.8 km
Experience Balloch’s vibrant nightlife at Desire Nightclub, where energetic music and welcoming vibes create unforgettable evenings.
Red
12.7 km
Experience Greenock’s vibrant nightlife at Red Nightclub, where intimate vibes meet lively dance floors and affordable fun every weekend.
Word Up
12.8 km
Experience Greenock's revitalized nightlife at Word Up, a modern nightclub with vibrant energy and a welcoming atmosphere.
Club 69 Paisley
20.4 km
Dive into Paisley’s legendary underground techno scene at Club 69, where pulsating beats and vibrant vibes keep the night alive.
Fantoosh
20.9 km
A lively, intimate nightclub in Paisley’s heart, perfect for energetic nights with friends and local beats.
Vienna's Nightclub
20.9 km
Experience Paisley’s vibrant nightlife at Vienna's Nightclub, where energetic music and lively crowds come alive every weekend.
The Berkeley Suite
25.2 km
Discover Glasgow’s hidden vintage nightclub with top DJs, retro vibes, and an intimate dancehall atmosphere beneath a 1940s ballroom.
Seventh Heaven Lap Dancing Club
25.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Glasgow at Seventh Heaven Lap Dancing Club, where entertaining performances meet a lively atmosphere.
Firewater
25.5 km
Dive into Glasgow's indie nightlife at Firewater, where two rooms blast alternative anthems, cheap entry fuels the fun, and Sauchiehall Street's energy ignites until 2:30am Thu-Sat.
Saint Judes After Dark
25.8 km
Glasgow's electrifying after-dark escape: pulsating DJ beats, craft cocktails, and retro club vibes fuel nights until 3am on Bath Street.
The Plug Glasgow
25.8 km
Experience Glasgow’s premier Afrobeat nightclub where Nigerian wedding vibes meet luxury nightlife and vibrant celebration.
Buff Club
25.9 km
Dive into Glasgow's funky basement beats at The Buff Club, where soul, disco, and 80s grooves light up the night under disco ball magic.
The Savoy
26.0 km
Experience Glasgow’s vibrant weekend nightlife at The Savoy, a lively nightclub on Sauchiehall Street pulsing with music and energy until dawn.
142B Lounge
26.1 km
Experience Glasgow’s vibrant Afrobeat and Amapiano hotspot with stylish vibes, great music, and authentic African flavors.
Bamboo
26.2 km
Glasgow’s energetic three-room basement nightclub offering affordable drinks and diverse music for a lively student crowd.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
