National Trust for Scotland: The most romantic local walks in Scotland
The National Trust for Scotland has picked out Scotland’s best romantic walks, area by area, across the country. Perfect for Valentine’s Day!
Article Source: Issued on behalf of National Trust for Scotland by Frame PR.
Last Updated: 13 February 2021 12:33
Stunning strolls right on your doorstep on Valentine’s Day
Love in a pandemic climate means that Valentine’s Day will be very different in 2021.
Candlelit dinners in restaurants, days on the town, trips to the cinema, shows and concerts, one by one we have chalked off all of the tried and trusted favourites as we’ve planned for a day spent in lockdown.
The pandemic has inspired are plenty of alternatives and some of us will receive cook at home kits and special deliveries from our favourite haunts, which are always best eaten after a long walk. And, if anything, the recent snowfall – which is expected to continue this weekend – will make our favourite scenic strolls even more beautiful.
The National Trust for Scotland has, over the past 12 months, reported record visitor numbers at the natural locations it cares for across the country. Scotland’s national conservation charity has urged people to stay within their areas during lockdown and, with their castles and built properties currently closed, look to the gardens, parks and hills in their local area.
Here we pick out Scotland’s best romantic walks, area by area, across the country.
ANGUS: HOUSE OF DUN & MONTROSE BASIN NATURE RESERVE
The garden and estate at this grand Georgian House are open. The house, shop, tearoom and toilet facilities remain closed during this latest lockdown. Montrose Basin is a short distance from the house and offers further spectacular walks for visitors. The tidal basin, which makes up part of the estuary of the River South Esk, is home to over 80,000 migratory birds and you should keep an eye open for otters, roe deer and red squirrels along the way.
ABERDEENSHIRE: DRUM CASTLE
One of Scotland’s oldest tower houses is surrounded by sprawling grounds and the Old Wood of Drum, which has oak trees dating from the 1700s. The Royal Forest and Tower of Drum were actually given to the former owners, the Irvine family, by Robert the Bruce in 1323 and it is a property closely connected with the Jacobite story. When walking the ancient oak forest, you may be lucky enough to spot red kites, roe deer, red squirrels and badgers.
ARGYLL AND BUTE: CRARAE GARDEN
One of the jewels of Argyll and Bute and the finest example of a Himalayan-style garden in the UK. The peaceful paradise has a gorge, rippling burn, waterfalls and cliffs and has a different look all year round as each new season brings fresh blooms. Crarae Garden is open daily and an accessible toilet is available at the property.
CLACKMANNANSHIRE: DOLLAR GLEN
The path takes you up through woodlands, past the Burns of Care and Sorrow, which plunge down tumbling waterfalls. Overlooking this peaceful glen stand the ruins of Castle Campbell, the 15th-century stronghold of Clan Campbell. Dollar Glen has been declared a Site of Special Scientific Interest, due to its habitats and geology and it stands as a beautiful sanctuary, tucked away in the shadow of the Ochils.
DUMFRIES AND GALLOWAY: ROCKCLIFFE
Often described as one of Scotland’s most beautiful stretches of coastline, Rockcliffe also has a bird sanctuary on Rough Island, which can only be reached on foot at low tide and a lost citadel at the ancient hilltop, Mote of Mark. Dogs are welcome but must be kept under close control and visitors should watch for nesting birds and livestock grazing in the meadows.
EAST LOTHIAN: NEWHAILES
You can still enjoy woodland walks and stroll along the historic paths recently uncovered by National Trust for Scotland staff and volunteers. Newhailes also offers beautiful views across the Forth. The estate spans across 34 hectares of historical landscape and has numerous paths and walks for visitors.
CITY OF EDINBURGH: MALLENY GARDENS
A hidden treasure amid the suburban bustle of Scotland’s capital, Malleny Gardens is renowned for its peaceful atmosphere. Stepping inside the iron wrought gates, you can leave the world behind, wandering among 400-year-old yew trees. The garden is a sight to behold when it’s collection of roses in full bloom, but a joy whatever the time of year.
FALKIRK: THE PINEAPPLE
This extraordinary folly remains one of Scotland’s most unusual buildings. Built in 1761 by the Earl of Dunmore as a summerhouse and has stunning views across his old estate. Today the Pineapple remains surrounded by acres of woodland and you can spot the local wildlife down at the former curling pond.
FIFE: HILL OF TARVIT
Originally known as Wemyss Hall, the 17th century mansion and grounds were transformed in 1904 by owner, Frederick Sharp. He commissioned architect Robert Lorimer, who also designed the landscaped gardens, with formal lawns, yew hedging, flowering borders and a sunken rose garden. The property includes a 9-hole hickory golf course, but this remains closed at this moment in time.
GLASGOW CITY: POLLOK HOUSE
‘Scotland’s Downton Abbey’ remains closed, but the surrounding country park is a sanctuary within the city. You can also stroll along White Cart Water, south of the house and say hello to some of Glasgow’s best loved residents, the park’s herd of Highland Cows. If you are feeling adventurous, Pollok Country Park also has cycle tracks and more rugged trails for mountain bikers.
PERTH AND KINROSS: THE HERMITAGE
A truly magical place. Visitors can stroll beneath giant Douglas firs, which are among the biggest trees in Britain, along the River Braan, past the Ossian’s Hall folly and look out over the crashing Black Linn Falls. And there is adventure in the woods. Keep an eye open for the ‘hidden’ totem pole, tucked away between the trees.
SOUTH AYRSHIRE: CULZEAN CASTLE
The castle’s vast country park, the walled garden, Adventure Cove and toilet facilities at Home Farm are open Thursday to Monday. The castle itself remains closed until further notice. There remains so much to explore and you can lose yourself for hours, wandering through woods, along beaches, parkland and cliffs. And you can still say hello to some of Culzean’s most famous residents down at the Swan Pond or at the deer park.
You can find all of the National Trust for Scotland’s walks and locations that are in your local area on their website: nts.org.uk. Simply visit the charity’s website, search for your town or postcode and plan your next big adventure – right on your doorstep. You can also find the Scottish Government’s latest advice on Covid-19, travel restrictions and safety measures here.
Image: Perth and Kinross - The Hermitage, River Bran
Sponsored Links
Latest East Renfrewshire News
Dinosaur Day at Dobbies
Children attending Dobbies Little Seedlings Club will get the chance to travel back hundreds of millions of years to learn about prehistoric plants and talk about their favourite dinosaurs!
READ MORE
Summer long celebration of the 90s and britpop launched
PubLife, a UK-wide summer celebration of the '90s will take place in over 500 pubs, including 7 in Scotland.
READ MORE
Family days out just got better with free entry for kids at Scone Palace
This summer, as school holidays get underway, families are invited to enjoy a day out at Scone Palace with their Kids Go Free promotion.
READ MORE
Scone Palace International Horse Trials
The inaugural Scone Palace International Horse Trials will take place from 21st–24th August 2025 in the stunning grounds of Scone Palace and Perth Racecourse.
READ MORE
Countdown begins: The AJ Bell Great Scottish Run returns to Glasgow in October
Scotland's greatest running event, the AJ Bell Great Scottish Run, will return to Glasgow on Sunday 5th October and they want everyone to 'Be Your Greatest'.
READ MORE
BTS fans take the spotlight in latest K Pop documentary heading to Vue
BTS Army: Forever We Are Young, a brand-new documentary celebrating the fans that helped catapult 21st century pop icons BTS into global stardom comes to Vue.
READ MORE
SAY Award opens submissions for eligible albums
Scotland’s national music prize – the Scottish Album of the Year (SAY) Award – has opened submissions for 2025’s £20,000 prize.
READ MORE
Great value summer holiday activities at Dobbies Garden Centres
This summer, gather the whole family and head to Dobbies Garden Centres for a day of fun-filled activities that will keep costs down.
READ MORE
FREE family festival at Loch Lomond Shores returns on 5th and 6th July
Summerfest, the FREE family festival at Loch Lomond Shores, is back on the 5th and 6th of July with lots of things to see and do!
READ MORE
Flag raised to commemorate Armed Forces Day in East Renfrewshire
East Renfrewshire Council raised the Armed Forces Day flag today to mark Armed Forces Day which will be held on Saturday 28th June.
READ MORE
Earlybird tickets drive buzz for 2026 Scottish Caravan, Motorhome & Holiday Home Show
The biggest show of its kind in Scotland returns with Earlybird tickets and a give-away with headline sponsor Border Caravans!
READ MORE
July events at Dobbies Garden Centres
Check out July at Dobbies with it's Little Seedlings Club on rainforests and Grow How on pest control and healthy gardens!
READ MORE
Historic Environment Scotland calls for public stories for national wellbeing exhibition
Historic Environment Scotland is calling for people across the country to connect with heritage to boost their wellbeing as a part of a national campaign, Historic Places, Breathing Spaces.
READ MORE
Scottish Bar and Pub Awards 2025 adds two new categories and voting deadline extended!
Scotland's hospitality industry and customers have spoken, and the Scottish Bar and Pub Awards 2025 has listened!
READ MORE
Busby pub celebrates triple award success
A Busby pub is one of six locals to have been selected from 2,400 around the UK to receive a prestigious Recognition Award from Heineken-owned Star Pubs.
READ MORE
Just Announced: Stars Set for the Stage at Eastwood Park Theatre
Eastwood Park Theatre has announced a whole host of brand-new shows featuring well-known faces.
READ MORE
25th year of Refugee Festival Scotland gets underway
Refugee Festival Scotland gets underway today, kick-starting nine days of dance performances, film screenings, visual art and photography exhibitions and community events across the country.
READ MORE
Exclusive Superman screening at Vue venues in Scotland
Tickets are on sale for an exclusive Superman screening at Vue venues in Scotland, with fans in for an extra special treat to take home.
READ MORE
Acclaimed debut Only Here, Only Now from Tom Newlands chosen as Waterstones Book of the Month in Scotland
The paperback edition of Only Here, Only Now by Tom Newlands has just been released - and is already making waves.
READ MORE
East Renfrewshire Culture and Leisure launches search for sports supporting superstars
East Renfrewshire Culture and Leisure has launched a search for local sports supporters in the community to recognise at its annual Sport and Physical Activity Awards.
READ MORE
Funding Boost for Charities at Scottish Building Society AGM
Scottish Building Society marked its Annual General Meeting (AGM) by announcing funding to support eight local charities and good causes across the country.
READ MORE
Classic car enthusiasts set to visit Loch Lomond Shores
Visitors are invited to come along and get up-close to some amazing cars, set against the beautiful backdrop of Loch Lomond, as part of a great day out.
READ MORE
Paws, play and heritage on parade
Bark by popular demand, the Gordon Setter Parade returns on Saturday 5th July as part of the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust (GWCT) Scottish Game Fair, held at the stunning Scone Palace.
READ MORE
Dobbies hosts brand new Fairy Garden Tea Party
Dobbies Garden Centres are inviting families across the UK along to its stores on Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th of June to spend a magical afternoon filled with fun activities and good food.
READ MORE
How to train your Dad in 4DX Cineworld enlists Gerard Butler
Cineworld is launching a brand new 4DX Father's Day gift experience, containing two 4DX tickets and ponchos, perfect for experiencing the new live-action "How to Train Your Dragon" film.
READ MORE
Summer of Roses: Free gardening workshop at Dobbies
Dobbies Garden Centres is hosting a free Rose-themed Grow How workshop this June, sharing top tips for caring for this beloved flowering plant.
READ MORE
Cheers to 30 years: Scottish Bar and Pub Awards celebrate with public voting now open
Scotland's longest-running hospitality awards turn 30 - and they want you to have your say!
READ MORE
Loch Lomond Unplugged is coming this weekend!
Loch Lomond Unplugged, our FREE showcase of talented buskers and singer/songwriters, is this weekend and we’re super excited to welcome great acts from across Scotland and beyond!
READ MORE
Veterans celebrate Health for Heroes Award at VE Day event
East Renfrewshire Culture and Leisure invited veterans for afternoon tea at Barrhead Foundry to celebrate the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day.
READ MORE
Dig into summer fun at Dobbies
Dobbies Garden Centres is inviting children to come along to its free-to-attend Little Seedlings Club, taking place across the country this June.
READ MORESponsored Links
Sponsored Links