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 Glasgow News
BBC Introducing comes to TRNSMT Festival, bringing 20 rising stars
Rockstar Energy presents TRNSMT has announced the BBC Introducing Stage, previously River Stage, will showcase 20 of the most exciting emerging artists in the country.
READ MORE
First Bus to improve reliability of over 30 Glasgow bus services thanks to AI
First Bus is making minor service updates to 33 routes across Glasgow from Sunday 20th April as its new AI-driven timetables continue to improve reliability for customers across the city.
READ MORE
June dates now on sale for Bongos Bingo, including 90s specials!
Expect all of the usual madness plus special themed prizes and music at Bongo's Bingo's 90s specials at SWG3 Glasgow in June!
READ MORE
HARIBO UK announces first Scottish retail store in Silverburn shopping centre
Scottish HARIBO-lovers are in for a treat! The UK’s leading confectionery manufacturer, and creator of Tangfastics and Starmix, is set to open its first retail store in Scotland.
READ MORE
The hoppiest time of the year at the National Trust For Scotland
The National Trust for Scotland is hopping into spring as it hosts 40 Easter egg trails at the special places in its care in April!
READ MORE
American BBQ legend and first Arab pitmaster both set to cook in Scotland for the first time
Pioneering pitmaster Pat Martin is coming to Glasgow as Meatopia makes its Scottish debut at SWG3 in June!
READ MORE
Taste the Place launches to celebrate culinary heritage of Glasgow
Taste the Place, a new range of experiences celebrating Glasgow's rich cultural heritage through food, has launched!
READ MORE
Glasgow International Comedy Festival announces record breaking statistics as festival draws to a close
Glasgow International Comedy Festival welcomed over 61,000 comedy fans to 605 shows this year, marking its biggest ever event!
READ MORE
Premium menswear brand, Bee Inspired, confirmed for Silverburn
Glasgow's leading retail and leisure destination, Silverburn has expanded its streetwear offering with the addition of globally recognised urban fashion brand, Bee Inspired.
READ MORE
Pitch perfect Govan Music Festival wraps up fantastic fourth edition
Govan Music Festival has wrapped up in Glasgow after four joyful days of music and community participation, showcasing themes of hope, renewal and connection across its programme.
READ MORE
Stacey Dooley and Kevin Clifton to star in supernatural thriller 2:22 A Ghost Story
The King's Theatre Glasgow is delighted to announce that Stacey Dooley and Kevin Clifton will star in the critically acclaimed, smash hit, supernatural thriller 2:22 - A Ghost Story!
READ MORE
Rosco McClelland wins Sir Billy Connolly Spirit of Glasgow Award at GICF
Rosco McClelland has been announced as the winner of 2025's Sir Billy Connolly Spirit of Glasgow Award, at Glasgow International Comedy Festival's Comedy Gala.
READ MORE
Top comedian and Scottish brewer team up in search of best Scottish banter for upcoming book
Innis & Gunn joins forces with top Scottish comedian Marc Jennings to find Scotland's funniest pub stories for 'The Book of Pub Banter & Confessions'.
READ MORE
University of Strathclyde retain the Glasgow Taxis Cup
University of Strathclyde were crowned winners of Scotland's largest student varsity sporting competition, the Glasgow Taxis Cup, for the third time since 2022.
READ MORE
Glasgow bus tour unveils hidden gems
An open-top bus company is offering a new tour of Glasgow, highlighting its hidden gems and maritime history.
READ MORE
Glasgow 850: Citizens Invited to Unleash Their Inner Poet and Join the Great Big Glasgow Poem!
Glasgow's 850th birthday celebrations have taken on a poetic twist with the launch of the Great Big Glasgow Poem, encouraging every Glaswegian to contribute a line to a collective masterpiece!
READ MORE
Sinitta and Darren Day join the cast of CHICAGO
Darren Day and Sinitta will join Strictly star Janette Manrara when CHICAGO comes to the King's Theatre Glasgow in August!
READ MORE
Spring into gardening: Dobbies free April workshops
Garden Centre invites gardeners to get hands-on with wildflowers and springtime celebrations.
READ MORE
Glasgow 850: More shows and festival showcase acts announced as part of Clyde Chorus
Clyde Chorus, part of Glasgow 850, is thrilled to unveil its festival showcase acts, featuring an eclectic mix of talent that celebrates Glasgow’s rich and diverse musical heritage.
READ MORE
JADE and Myles Smith join TRNSMT 2025 lineup
Rockstar Energy presents TRNSMT has revealed five new artists to the Glasgow Green billing, including two of the hottest UK acts right now, JADE and Myles Smith!
READ MORE
VR experience at Glasgow Central station aims to help combat sexual harassment on the railway
Immersive VR film at Glasgow Central station invites passengers to find out how they can help to tackle sexual harassment on the railways.
READ MORE
Rainbocorns letter hunt in Smyths Toys Stores this April!
Smyths Toys is hosting the official Rainbocorns Easter Letter Hunt giving kids the chance to hunt down the letters instore and unscramble the word to receive a FREE 8cm Rainbocorns Eggzania Baby Mania
READ MORE
Strictly Come Dancing star Kai Widdrington brings his new tour to Glasgow
Kai Widdrington, renowned professional dancer across the UK and Ireland, is set to bring his highly anticipated dance tour, Kai - Evolution to Glasgow's Pavilion Theatre!
READ MORE
Doors to historic sites across Scotland set to open next month
More than 30 historic seasonal sites across the country will reopen to visitors from Tuesday 1st April, as Historic Environment Scotland marks the start of its spring/summer season.
READ MORE
Global fashion retail brand Hollister confirmed for Silverburn Glasgow
Scotland's leading retail and leisure destination Silverburn has announced that global fashion retailer Hollister is set to join its line-up of leading fashion brands this summer.
READ MORE
Hillhead Primary School in Glasgow return to defend their title in national poetry competition
Hillhead Primary School in Glasgow, crowned Slam Masters and Individual winners at the Scottish Youth Poetry Slam, will return to this year’s competition to defend their title.
READ MORE
Govan Music Festival opens today with song inspired by life saving Glasgow society
This year's programme showcases the diversity, talent and passion of the historic Glasgow district, with one show featuring a song inspired by local lifesaving outfit, the Glasgow Humane Society.
READ MORE
Scottish comedy venues offers funded fringe for new comedian
Scottish comedy venue Blackfriars of Bell Street has joined forces with Brass Tacks Comedy to offer a funded Edinburgh Festival Fringe debut for Scottish comedian Jack Traynor.
READ MORE
Glasgow Film Festival celebrates its 21st edition with over 33,000 attendances
Stellar lineup of Hollywood stars including Toni Collette, Jessica Lange, Ed Harris, James McAvoy and Tim Roth lit up the city alongside a programme of free films and events for the community.
READ MORE
Theatrical screenings take centre stage at Vue this spring
To coincide with World Theatre Day this Thursday (27 March), Vue venues in Scotland are bringing a selection of British productions to the big screen this spring.
READ MORESponsored Links
Sponsored Links