Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from City of Edinburgh to Kilbarchan
Scotland is a beautiful country with lots of picturesque landscapes, historical places, and tourist attractions. A road trip from the City of Edinburgh to Kilbarchan offers an exciting opportunity to explore Scotland's hidden gems, its culture, and architecture. One can take the A70 route, which has a distance of approximately 70 miles and an estimated driving time of 1.5 hours, depending on traffic.
A road trip offers a unique chance to explore places outside the traditional tourist trail. A must-do thing on the way to Kilbarchan from Edinburgh is to make a stopover at Airdrie, NLK. Airdrie is the halfway point between the two cities and a great place to rest, stretch your legs, have some tea, and take photos. Airdrie is a historic market town situated 12 miles east of Glasgow. It has numerous cafes, restaurants, and parks which make it a perfect stopover location for travelers.
1. Discover the Beauty of The Kelpies
The Kelpies are a magnificent equine sculpture situated at the Helix park near Falkirk. The Kelpies are the tallest sculptures of horses in the world, standing at 30 meters tall. They were created in 2013 by artist Andy Scott as a celebration of the role of horses in the history of Scotland's economy and industries. The sculptures are impressive in their design, and visitors can get an idea of the creative excellence of the artist. The park surrounding this sculpture is serene and picturesque, making it a perfect place for a family picnic.
Favorite food to eat - Haggis Supper with chips at the Chippy, a local restaurant.
2. Visit Doune Castle
Doune Castle is a unique example of medieval architecture situated in the town of Doune, Stirling. The castle was built in the thirteenth century and has been featured in many films and television shows, including Outlander and Game of Thrones. The castle's impressive architecture, its beautiful garden, and historical significance make it a must-visit attraction.
Favorite food to eat - Toasted cheese sandwich at the Castle Kitchen.
3. Explore the History of New Lanark village
New Lanark village is a UNESCO World Heritage Site situated near the Falls of Clyde in South Lanarkshire. This historic site was created in the late 18th century by a philanthropist named Robert Owen as a progressive and self-sustaining industrial village. Visitors will learn about the history of this unique village and the social and environmental impact of the industrial revolution. The village has a hotel, restaurants, and museums that showcase the town's history.
Favorite food to eat - Sticky Toffee Pudding at the Mill Café.
4. Hike to the Historic Craignethan Castle
Craignethan Castle is a Historic Environment Scotland property situated near the village of Crossford, South Lanarkshire. The castle was built in the 16th century and played an essential role in the history of Scotland. Visitors can hike through the woods and discover this historical monument's heritage while admiring the castle's architecture and views of the River Nethan.
Favorite food to eat - Scottish salmon wrap at The Castle Café.
5. Indulge in the beauty of Balloch Castle
Balloch Castle is situated on the southern shores of Loch Lomond and is a perfect location for family and friends to visit. Balloch Castle Country Park has numerous attractions, including formal gardens, woodland walks, children's play area and a pirate ship, among others. The beautiful gardens with scenic views overlooking Loch Lomond create a romantic atmosphere.
Favorite food to eat - Fish and Chips at the Balloch House Hotel restaurant.
In conclusion, Scotland is a beautiful country with breathtaking landscapes and interesting places to visit. A road trip from the City of Edinburgh to Kilbarchan offers an incredible opportunity to experience Scotland's culture, history, and lochs. It's important to make stopovers at unique places like The Kelpies, Doune Castle, New Lanark Village, Craignethan Castle, and Balloch Castle to make incredible memories. When you're on this road trip, ensure that you're aware of the current travel restrictions in place and follow all health guidelines to stay safe.