Queen Elizabeth Forest Park, Scottish Highlands
Explore ancient woodlands, sparkling lochs, and thrilling treetop adventures in Scotland’s stunning Queen Elizabeth Forest Park.
Queen Elizabeth Forest Park, nestled within Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, offers expansive ancient woodlands, sparkling lochs, and rugged hills. Visitors can explore miles of walking and cycling trails, enjoy wildlife watching including red squirrels and ospreys, and experience thrilling treetop adventures. The park's visitor centre, The Lodge, provides amenities and stunning views, making it a perfect family-friendly destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts year-round.
A brief summary to Queen Elizabeth Forest Park
- Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park Scottish Highlands, FK8 3SX, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 6 hours
- Mid ranged
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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 Lodge Forest Visitor Centre first for maps, wildlife info, and to rent electric mobility scooters for accessible trails.
- Try the Waterfall Walk and Oak Forest Walk for easy, family-friendly trails with art installations and wildlife spotting.
- Book the Go Ape Treetop Adventure in advance for a thrilling high-wire experience suitable for ages 10 and up.
- Drive or cycle the Three Lochs Forest Drive to see Loch Katrine, Loch Ard, and Loch Achray without long hikes.
- Bring binoculars and a camera for excellent opportunities to spot ospreys, red squirrels, and deer in their natural habitat.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Glasgow or Edinburgh takes around 50 to 70 minutes via the A81 and A821 roads. Parking is available at The Lodge Visitor Centre and other key points, with some seasonal charges applying.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Aberfoyle to Stirling and Glasgow, with travel times ranging from 1 to 1.5 hours. From Aberfoyle, The Lodge Visitor Centre is accessible by a 20-minute walk or a short local taxi ride.
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Cycling
Cyclists can use National Cycle Network Route 7 to reach The Lodge Visitor Centre from Aberfoyle, offering scenic and safe cycling paths. The park features extensive off-road cycle trails suitable for all abilities.
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Walking
For nearby visitors, walking trails from Aberfoyle to The Lodge cover about 5 km over mixed terrain, taking approximately 1.5 hours. Trails are well-marked but include some moderate slopes.
Queen Elizabeth Forest 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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Cold Weather
Discover more about Queen Elizabeth Forest Park
A Majestic Natural Sanctuary in the Scottish Highlands
Queen Elizabeth Forest Park is a vast, enchanting forest park located within the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park in the Scottish Highlands. Spanning approximately 50,000 acres, the park encompasses a diverse landscape of ancient woodlands, rolling hills, sparkling freshwater lochs, and rugged mountain terrain. This natural sanctuary offers a peaceful retreat from urban life, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in Scotland’s iconic scenery and rich biodiversity.Rich Wildlife and Scenic Beauty
The park is renowned for its abundant wildlife, including elusive red squirrels, majestic ospreys, buzzards, deer, and badgers. The Lodge Forest Visitor Centre near Aberfoyle serves as a hub for wildlife observation, featuring live CCTV feeds and a red squirrel hide that allows visitors to watch these charming creatures up close. The forest’s varied habitats support a wide array of plant species, from ancient oak woodlands to delicate ferns, contributing to the park’s ecological richness.Trails and Outdoor Activities for All Ages
Queen Elizabeth Forest Park offers an extensive network of trails suitable for walking, cycling, and horseback riding. Family-friendly routes such as the Waterfall Walk and Oak Forest Walk provide accessible, engaging experiences with art trails and opportunities to spot woodland animals. For more adventurous visitors, the park boasts one of Britain’s largest off-road cycle networks and the exhilarating Go Ape Treetop Adventure course, featuring zip lines and rope bridges high among the trees.The Lodge Forest Visitor Centre Experience
The Lodge is the ideal starting point for exploring the park, offering visitor information, a well-equipped café with panoramic views, restrooms, and parking. It also provides electric mobility scooters for those who require assistance, ensuring accessibility on the Waterfall Trail. The centre hosts ranger-led activities and educational exhibits that deepen visitors’ understanding of the forest’s natural and cultural heritage.Seasonal Highlights and Nearby Attractions
Throughout the year, the park transforms with the seasons—from vibrant autumn foliage to springtime blooms and winter’s serene landscapes. The Three Lochs Forest Drive offers a scenic route through the heart of the forest, passing Lochs Katrine, Ard, and Achray. Nearby, visitors can enjoy pony treks, steamship cruises on Loch Katrine, and climbs up Ben Lomond or the Strathyre crags, making the park a versatile destination for day trips or longer stays.A Welcoming Destination for Nature Enthusiasts
Whether seeking tranquil nature walks, wildlife photography, family adventures, or adrenaline-pumping activities, Queen Elizabeth Forest Park caters to all. Its combination of pristine environments, well-maintained facilities, and diverse recreational options ensures a memorable experience for visitors of all ages and interests.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Argyll Walks
14.1 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Scotland with Argyll Walks, where guided tours meet stunning natural beauty and rich cultural experiences.
Callander Kirk
16.9 km
Explore the serene beauty and historical significance of Callander Kirk, a stunning church nestled in the heart of Callander, Scotland.
Inveruglas Pyramid - An Ceann Mòr
18.4 km
Discover the breathtaking views and natural beauty of Inveruglas Pyramid, a premier scenic viewpoint in Scotland's stunning Trossachs region.
Balloch Castle & Country Park
19.1 km
Experience the natural beauty and historical charm of Balloch Castle & Country Park, a perfect getaway in the heart of Loch Lomond.
Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park
19.4 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures at Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, Scotland's natural gem.
Duck Bay
19.6 km
Experience breathtaking views and exquisite dining at Duck Bay, the ultimate destination for relaxation and nature lovers visiting Loch Lomond.
Maid of The Loch
19.8 km
Explore the beauty of Loch Lomond aboard the Maid of The Loch, Scotland's last paddle steamer, and immerse yourself in a rich maritime heritage.
SEA LIFE Loch Lomond Aquarium
20.0 km
Discover the enchanting marine life at SEA LIFE Loch Lomond Aquarium, an unforgettable experience for families and nature lovers in the heart of Scotland.
Sweeney's Cruise Co Loch Lomond
20.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Loch Lomond with Sweeney's Cruise Co, offering unforgettable boat tours and scenic adventures on Scotland's largest loch.
Loch Lomond Shores
20.1 km
Scenic shopping, dining, and family-friendly attractions on the shores of Loch Lomond with stunning views and year-round events.
Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre
20.3 km
Experience the wonder of raptors in the heart of Loch Lomond, where conservation meets breathtaking beauty and educational adventures await.
Grave of Rob Roy MacGregor
21.7 km
Discover the tranquil grave of Rob Roy MacGregor, Scotland’s legendary Highland outlaw and folk hero, nestled in the historic glen of Balquhidder.
Balquhidder Parish Church
21.7 km
A Highland kirkyard where saints, clans, and the outlaw Rob Roy rest in a glen of ancient spiritual power and dramatic history.
Ben Vane
22.4 km
Explore the breathtaking heights of Ben Vane, a majestic peak offering stunning views and unforgettable hiking experiences in the heart of Scotland's Highlands.
The Hill House
24.0 km
Discover The Hill House in Helensburgh, an architectural gem by Charles Rennie Mackintosh, showcasing stunning design and breathtaking views.
Unmissable attractions to see
Loch Ard
3.0 km
Discover Loch Ard’s serene waters, historic ruins, and scenic trails in the heart of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park.
The Lodge Forest Visitor Centre
4.4 km
Explore the heart of the Trossachs from The Lodge, your gateway to forest trails, wildlife wonders, and thrilling treetop adventures.
VisitScotland Aberfoyle iCentre
4.4 km
Your former friendly gateway to exploring Aberfoyle and the stunning Trossachs National Park.
The Scottish Wool Centre
4.4 km
Discover authentic Scottish woollen crafts, country clothing, and seasonal animal shows at Aberfoyle’s vibrant Scottish Wool Centre.
Three Lochs Forest Drive
5.3 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Queen Elizabeth Forest Park on the scenic 7-mile Three Lochs Forest Drive, passing three stunning lochs and rich wildlife.
Trossachs Pier
7.4 km
Discover timeless Scottish beauty with historic cruises and stunning landscapes at Trossachs Pier on Loch Katrine.
Conic Hill
8.9 km
A striking 361m hill on the Highland Boundary Fault offering panoramic views over Loch Lomond and accessible hiking from Balmaha.
Inchmahome Priory
9.5 km
Step onto a secluded island in Scotland’s only lake to explore the atmospheric ruins of a 13th-century Augustinian priory, once a sanctuary for Robert the Bruce and the young Mary Queen of Scots.
Lake Of Menteith
10.0 km
Scotland’s only natural lake, rich in history, wildlife, and tranquil beauty near Stirling.
Loch Venachar
10.7 km
Discover Loch Venachar’s tranquil waters, rich history, and scenic trails in the heart of Scotland’s Trossachs National Park.
Balmaha Visitor Centre
10.7 km
Discover the natural beauty and heritage of Loch Lomond from Balmaha Visitor Centre, your gateway to stunning trails and scenic vistas.
Balmaha
10.8 km
Balmaha: Tranquil village gateway to Loch Lomond’s stunning natural beauty and outdoor adventures.
St Mocha Coffee Shop and Ice Cream Parlour
10.8 km
Artisan coffee and homemade ice cream in Balmaha, a cozy retreat on Loch Lomond’s scenic West Highland Way.
Tom Weir Statue
10.9 km
A heartfelt bronze tribute to Tom Weir, Scotland’s iconic climber and broadcaster, set against the stunning backdrop of Loch Lomond.
Ben Lomond
11.1 km
Scotland’s most southerly Munro, rising above Loch Lomond with panoramic Highland views and a challenging yet rewarding hike to the summit.
Essential places to dine
Oak Tree Inn
10.9 km
Cosy Scottish inn on Loch Lomond’s edge offering warm hospitality, hearty cuisine, and stunning natural beauty in Balmaha.
Nick's at Port of Menteith
11.3 km
Experience exceptional Scottish dining with woodfired pizzas and seasonal local produce in the serene setting of Port of Menteith.
Clachan Inn
11.4 km
Historic Drymen pub and inn offering warm hospitality, hearty Scottish fare, and cozy lodging near Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park.
Colquhoun's Restaurant
13.6 km
Dine with panoramic views of Loch Lomond in a relaxed setting blending Scottish cuisine and stunning waterfront ambiance.
The Village Rest Luss
13.9 km
Cozy Scottish bistro in Luss serving hearty seasonal fare with generous portions and friendly service near scenic Loch Lomond.
Callander Meadows
16.8 km
Charming Georgian B&B in Callander offering cozy rooms, gourmet Scottish cuisine, and a tranquil beer garden in the heart of Perthshire.
Inchmurrin Restaurant
16.9 km
Dine on fresh local fare with stunning Loch Lomond views on the peaceful, ferry-accessed Inchmurrin Island.
Slanj Restaurant
17.1 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine and warm hospitality in a charming converted church at The Slanj Restaurant, Tarbet’s beloved dining spot.
The Clubhouse at Cameron
18.4 km
Modern European dining with scenic views at Cameron Club & Spa on Loch Lomond, offering fresh, locally inspired dishes and warm hospitality.
Cù Mara Bistro & Takeaway
18.7 km
Cozy bistro on Arrochar’s shore blending Italian-American flavors with stunning Loch Long views and warm local hospitality.
Village Inn
18.8 km
A cozy pub and inn on Loch Long offering hearty Scottish fare, scenic views, and warm Highland hospitality in Arrochar.
The Cruin
19.4 km
Experience unparalleled beauty at The Cruin, a stunning wedding venue on Loch Lomond offering exquisite dining and breathtaking views.
Duck Bay Hotel & Restaurant
19.6 km
Scenic lochside retreat with modern dining, cozy rooms, and warm Scottish hospitality on the banks of Loch Lomond.
The Boat House
19.9 km
Waterfront dining with panoramic Loch Lomond views in Scotland's premier lakeside resort.
Mavi Kitchen & Bar
19.9 km
A vibrant grill and Mediterranean kitchen in Balloch offering great food, friendly service, and a lively atmosphere from breakfast to late night.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Balmaha Village Shop
10.8 km
Your friendly local shop in Balmaha offering essentials, hiking gear, and authentic Scottish gifts near Loch Lomond.
Loch Lomond Rocks
10.9 km
Discover handcrafted candles inspired by the natural beauty of Loch Lomond in a cozy artisan boutique in Moniack, Balmaha.
Buchlyvie Pottery Shop
11.4 km
Discover handcrafted Scottish pottery and enjoy cozy cafe delights in the heart of Buchlyvie village.
Coach House Coffee Shop and Store
13.7 km
Quirky Scottish coffee shop in scenic Luss, serving homemade treats and local produce in a warm, dog-friendly setting by Loch Lomond.
Luss General Store
13.8 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and local treasures in the charming heart of Luss village by Loch Lomond.
Callander Drinks Company
16.8 km
Discover Scotland’s finest spirits and personalized service at Callander Drinks Company, a charming boutique off-licence in the heart of Callander.
Caulders Garden Centre Loch Lomond
18.0 km
Explore the beauty of nature at Caulders Garden Centre Loch Lomond, where shopping meets dining in a picturesque setting.
Braeside Stores
18.6 km
Your friendly neighborhood convenience store in Arrochar, stocking essentials and more for locals and visitors alike.
Auchentullich Farm Shop
18.8 km
Experience the taste of Scotland at Auchentullich Farm Shop with fresh produce, artisanal treats, and a cozy coffee shop in a stunning countryside setting.
The Personalised Drinks Company Ltd
19.3 km
Crafting bespoke beverages tailored for weddings and special occasions in the heart of Balloch, Alexandria.
Wild Highlands Coffee House
19.8 km
Savor premium small-batch coffee with breathtaking Loch Lomond views at Balloch’s iconic Maid of The Loch pier.
Loch Lomond Gift House
19.9 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and Highland wear in the heart of Balloch, just steps from Loch Lomond’s scenic shores.
Co-op Food - Balloch
19.9 km
Discover the best of local shopping at Co-op Food in Balloch, where convenience meets community spirit.
Leading Labels Ltd
20.1 km
Discover stylish designer fashion and accessories at Leading Labels Ltd, nestled in the scenic beauty of Loch Lomond Shores.
Loch Lomond News
20.1 km
Discover Loch Lomond News, your local hub for newspapers, souvenirs, and a taste of Scottish culture amid breathtaking landscapes.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ben Arthur Bothy
18.6 km
Traditional Scottish pub in Arrochar with hearty fare and breathtaking views over Loch Long and the Arrochar Alps.
The Tavern
19.8 km
Lively family-friendly bar with hearty fare, live sports, and local music at Cameron House on scenic Loch Lomond.
Great Scotts Bar
19.8 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 Lobby Bar
19.8 km
Elegant bar at Cameron House offering refined drinks and stunning Loch Lomond views within a historic Scottish estate.
Dog House
19.9 km
A lively, dog-friendly pub in Balloch blending traditional charm with modern comfort and vibrant local spirit.
The Balloch House
20.0 km
Historic Scottish pub and hotel offering cozy charm and lakeside access at the gateway to Loch Lomond.
Monkey Island Cafe Bar
20.1 km
Relax riverside with stunning Loch Lomond views, great drinks, and friendly vibes at Monkey Island Cafe Bar in Balloch.
Glenroy Bar
20.1 km
A lively Scottish bar in Balloch blending local charm, Indian flavors, and live entertainment in a warm, welcoming setting.
Fentons Bar
20.2 km
A friendly and affordable pub in Jamestown, Alexandria, offering a warm local atmosphere and late-night socializing on Main Street.
Queen Of The Loch
20.4 km
A friendly pub and inn near Loch Lomond offering hearty meals, comfortable stays, and a welcoming atmosphere for families and pets alike.
The Old Vale Bar
22.1 km
Historic Scottish pub blending traditional hospitality with a cozy, modern vibe in the heart of Alexandria.
Argyll Bar
25.3 km
A cozy and traditional Helensburgh pub offering lively entertainment, local charm, and a welcoming atmosphere on East Clyde Street.
The Glencairn Lounge
26.0 km
Discover the heart of Dumbarton at The Glencairn Lounge, where traditional Scottish hospitality meets a vibrant pub atmosphere.
The Lennox Bar
26.1 km
A classic, welcoming pub on Dumbarton's High Street offering affordable drinks and a genuine local atmosphere.
Waverley Bar
26.1 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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Desire Nightclub
20.2 km
Experience Balloch’s vibrant nightlife at Desire Nightclub, where energetic music and welcoming vibes create unforgettable evenings.
Word Up
30.8 km
Experience Greenock's revitalized nightlife at Word Up, a modern nightclub with vibrant energy and a welcoming atmosphere.
Red
31.0 km
Experience Greenock’s vibrant nightlife at Red Nightclub, where intimate vibes meet lively dance floors and affordable fun every weekend.
Castle Leisure Group
32.2 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Castle Leisure Group in Stirling – a perfect blend of dining, nightlife, and entertainment for tourists.
Fubar Nightclub
32.3 km
Experience Stirling’s energetic student nightlife at Fubar Nightclub, where music, lights, and lively crowds come alive late into the night.
Slanj-A-Va
32.4 km
Discover Slanj-A-Va: Stirling's premier live music venue offering an unforgettable night out filled with diverse musical experiences.
The Berkeley Suite
35.4 km
Discover Glasgow’s hidden vintage nightclub with top DJs, retro vibes, and an intimate dancehall atmosphere beneath a 1940s ballroom.
Club 69 Paisley
35.4 km
Dive into Paisley’s legendary underground techno scene at Club 69, where pulsating beats and vibrant vibes keep the night alive.
Seventh Heaven Lap Dancing Club
35.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Glasgow at Seventh Heaven Lap Dancing Club, where entertaining performances meet a lively atmosphere.
Firewater
35.6 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.
The Plug Glasgow
35.7 km
Experience Glasgow’s premier Afrobeat nightclub where Nigerian wedding vibes meet luxury nightlife and vibrant celebration.
Saint Judes After Dark
35.7 km
Glasgow's electrifying after-dark escape: pulsating DJ beats, craft cocktails, and retro club vibes fuel nights until 3am on Bath Street.
The Savoy
35.8 km
Experience Glasgow’s vibrant weekend nightlife at The Savoy, a lively nightclub on Sauchiehall Street pulsing with music and energy until dawn.
Buff Club
35.8 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.
Bamboo
36.0 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
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Viewpoints
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
- 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
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
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
