Milngavie is the starting point of the West Highland Way. In addition to the long-distance trail, the reservoir paths and cultural attractions offer more ways to shape your stay. When planning, it is worth distinguishing between the local routes: the section to Drymen, the surfaced paths around the reservoirs and the walks in the town each differ in their surface and character.
Walking from Milngavie
The West Highland Way section from Milngavie to Drymen makes a relatively easy start to the route. It follows footpaths, tracks and minor roads and has no major climbs. This makes the section a practical focus for anyone planning their walk around the beginning of the long-distance trail.
For local walks, a detailed brochure lists eight popular routes that start at the West Highland Way obelisk in the town centre. This gives you a local starting point for choosing a walk, while the section to Drymen provides a link to the onward route. Check maps and trail conditions again before setting out.
Reservoir paths and green spaces
Around the Milngavie and Craigmaddie Reservoirs, flat, surfaced paths are suitable for walking, running and cycling. They offer views of Glasgow. Compared with the section to Drymen, their flat, surfaced character is especially notable. The reservoir paths are therefore another option if you would like to include a local route in your plans alongside the long-distance trail.
The West Highland Way provides pedestrians and some cyclists with a traffic-free connection to Milngavie’s green spaces. Almost 63 kilometres of off-road paths have also been recorded in the area. Check trail conditions and access before setting out. Another green space is Lennox Park, south of the town centre, which provides access to the Allander Water.
Art, history and a local meeting place
The Lillie Art Gallery hosts exhibitions throughout the year. Works from its collection are on display, including paintings, prints, drawings, sculptures and ceramics. This gives the gallery a different focus from the outdoor paths: here, the emphasis is on a range of art forms from a collection. The specific exhibition programme may change, so check what is currently on display before your visit.
Another cultural landmark is the monument at Commissioner’s Cottage. Designed in the Art Nouveau style, it commemorates James Gale. This connection to local history complements the gallery exhibitions with a monument in a public space.
As of 30 April 2026, the community project at Gavin’s Mill in Milngavie operated an ethical shop and a community café. Fair-trade, sustainable and local products are sold or offered there. If this visit is part of your plans, check in advance whether it is currently available.
Getting there and planning your trip
Regular ScotRail trains connect Milngavie directly with Glasgow Queen Street station. As train frequencies and timetables can change, check the service for your travel date. Milngavie is therefore a clear choice as a base if the start of the West Highland Way, local walks or the reservoir paths are part of your plans. Art and local history offer a different focus, so you do not have to devote all your time to walking.
Discover more destinations: Lennoxtown, Bishopbriggs, Bearsden, Campsie Glen, Balgrochan.
Return to the main travel overview: East Dunbartonshire.
