Scotland is best explored on foot. Splendid in summer, enchanting in autumn, and windswept and rugged in winter, its picturesque landscapes offer something for every season.
And thanks to the National Trust for Scotland, much of this natural beauty can be accessed, explored and enjoyed throughout the year.
In total, the Trust cares for 76,000 hectares of countryside, more than 100 historic properties, including castles, gardens and battlefields… and 300 miles of footpaths.
This year marks 25 years since the Trust’s Footpath Fund was launched. The money raised goes towards maintaining and restoring those 300 miles of footpaths, which in turn helps protect the country’s epic but fragile landscape.
To celebrate this milestone, the charity is highlighting a selection of magical walks that showcase the very best of Scotland’s natural landscape.
Here we've picked 10 places that are particularly suitable for family outings, from gentle walks that suit all ages and abilities, to those centred on historic locations with activities for children.
Brodie Castle pond walk
Located just 20 miles from Inverness, the Brodie estate features a 16th-Century turreted castle set amid the stunning Moray landscape.
This buggy-friendly 40-minute, 2.4km walk is ideal for families, offering two cafes on site, play parks, and plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife from the hides positioned along the route.
Click here to start planning your walk
Barry Mill meander
A short drive inland from Carnoustie on Scotland’s dramatic North Sea coast, Barry Mill is a beautiful haven of woodlands and waterside trails.
Stroll the 1.5km route that runs along the Barry Burn, keeping an eye out for dippers, kingfishers and herons along the way. Visitors can enjoy picnics throughout the year.
Click here to start planning your walk
Centenary walk, Hill of Tarvit
This tranquil 1.8km route in the Fife foothills takes you along the outer edge of a unique nine-hole hickory golf course, passing through mature woodlands.
After completing the 40-minute stroll, grab a takeaway coffee or other refreshment on site, enjoy a picnic, or consider taking a guided tour of the magnificent Edwardian mansion at the heart of the estate.
Click here to start planning your walk
Estate walk, Newhailes
Enjoy a gentle 2km walk in the grounds of this 18th-Century estate with views of the River Forth before sitting down to a spot of lunch at the Stables Café.
Take a guided tour of Newhailes House, or go in time to catch the monthly farmers’ market - there are sometimes even musical performances to enjoy.
Children will also love the Weehailes Adventure Playpark, and the Playful Summer activities, with a series of themed play zones until August 25.
Click here to start planning your walk
Greenbank woodland walk
Less than a mile outside Glasgow’s Southside suburbs lies Greenbank Garden, an urban oasis and secluded walled garden featuring more than 3,600 plant species.
The Greenbank woodland walk is an easy trail through the magnificent beech and oak trees, and is suitable for wheelchairs and buggies.
Grab a coffee or snack at the cafe, or bring your own food and enjoy it in designated picnic areas or around the garden.
Click here to start planning your walk
Swan Pond loop, Culzean
Culzean Castle, situated on the Ayrshire Coast, is a stunning masterpiece perched atop a cliff overlooking woods, beaches and play parks.
The five-hectare Swan Pond is circled by a 1.3km footpath and surrounded by mature woodland, making it an ideal spot for observing waterfowl.
Enjoy a snack at Home Farm cafe, or treat yourself at the Aviary ice cream shop, next to the pond and kids' adventure playpark.
Click here to start planning your walk
Threave Nature Reserve circular
Discover one of Scotland’s most biodiverse nature reserves, featuring breathtaking views of the Galloway Hills.
Watch for ospreys, red kites, and peregrine falcons while exploring a 2km loop around Threave Castle. Wildlife hides are available along the route, and the estate also includes a flagship bat reserve.
After your stroll, be sure to check out the recently refurbished cafe and terrace with garden views.
Click here to start planning your walk
St Abb’s Head National Nature Reserve
St Abb’s Head, on the rugged Berwickshire Coast, is home to a spectacular clifftop nature reserve renowned for its seabird colonies.
Embark on the 6km stroll featuring dramatic views of the North Sea and Mire Loch. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also tackle the quarter-mile trek up Kirk Hill.
Click here to start planning your walk
Geilston Garden walk
Geilston Garden, located on the banks of the River Clyde in northwest Cardross, is a historic garden dating back to 1797.
Visitors can walk the gentle 2km trail and explore the beautiful bluebell woods along the Geilston Burn.
You can also buy fresh fruit and vegetables grown on the 10-acre site – a delicious addition to any picnic.
Click here to start planning your walk
Crarae woodland walk
Just 10 miles south of Inveraray, this family-friendly adventure features scenic woodland trails through a garden with Himalayan plants and dramatic waterfalls.
The highlight is the sparkling Crarae Burn, surrounded by rocky gorges, wooden bridges, and maple, birch and evergreen trees. Be sure to visit the cafe for a snack and a drink.
Click here to start planning your walk
