There are a few access points into the Kilpatrick Hills from Old Kilpatrick and the surrounding area. Check for local parking options before you head out.
Description
The Kilpatrick Hills sit just northwest of Glasgow and are a brilliant spot for a quick escape from the city. Despite being so close to the urban sprawl, once you’re up in the hills it feels surprisingly remote — open moorland, reservoirs, and big views in every direction.
We tackled this one with our friend Alan on a fairly dry but cold day. The chill in the air kept us moving at a good pace, but it was nothing that an extra layer couldn’t handle.
Route
The route itself is short and sweet — under 5km with a modest amount of climbing. It’s a good one if you’re looking for a quick leg-stretcher without committing to a full day out on the hills.
The highlight for us was the views down towards the River Clyde. On a clear day you can see right across the river and beyond, and it’s a reminder of just how close some genuinely scenic countryside is to Glasgow. The hills themselves are open and grassy with a few boggy patches, so decent footwear is worth bringing even on a drier day like we had.
It’s not the most dramatic hike in Scotland by any stretch, but as a quick outing with a mate on a cold afternoon, it was a great way to get some fresh air and stretch the legs.