The best walks and hikes around Banknock, Haggs And Longcroft

Yes, there's a wide variety of options. You can explore over 240 different routes in the region. About half of these are easy walks, perfect for a casual day out, while the other half offer more moderate challenges. There are also a handful of difficult trails for those seeking a more strenuous hike.

The trails around Banknock, Haggs and Longcroft are highly regarded by the komoot community, with over 4,200 hikers having explored the region. The routes have earned a high average rating, with reviewers often praising the mix of peaceful canal-side paths and historic trails.

Absolutely. Many routes are designed as loops so you can end where you started. A great example is the Falkirk Wheel Aqueduct – Falkirk Wheel loop from Bonnybridge. This moderate trail takes you along the canal and offers fantastic views of the iconic Falkirk Wheel and its aqueduct.

Yes, the area is well-suited for family outings. For a day with lots to do, consider visiting Muiravonside Country Park. It's a popular spot with locals and features a mini farm, a playground, and a number of easy, well-maintained walking trails through its 170 acres of woodland.

Most of the trails in the area are great for walking with a dog, especially the open paths along the canal. A particularly good option is Dams to Darnley Country Park, which offers a varied landscape of woodland and reservoir paths where your dog can have a good run. As always, please keep your dog under control, especially near farmland and wildlife.

Yes, you can literally walk through history here. The region is crossed by the Antonine Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site marking the Roman Empire's northern frontier. You can follow sections of the wall and explore the remains of Roman forts, such as those at Croy Hill and Bar Hill, which also provide excellent views.

The canal towpaths offer flat, easy, and well-maintained walking routes ideal for all fitness levels. A walk west from Banknock towards Auchinstarry Marina is a particularly attractive stretch that feels very rural, with plenty of trees and water. It's a peaceful way to experience the countryside.

For more of a challenge, head towards the Kilsyth Hills, which lie just north of the villages. These hills provide more rugged, upland terrain and reward hikers with panoramic views across the Central Belt. You can also explore Cathkin Braes, a highly-regarded park with a network of trails offering fantastic views over Glasgow.

Falkirk Council maintains a Core Paths Plan which details the network of recognized paths designed to give the public reasonable access throughout the area. These paths connect the villages and link to the wider countryside. You can find maps and details on the council's website.

Parking is generally available at or near the start of popular routes, especially at major attractions like the Falkirk Wheel or country parks such as Muiravonside. For walks starting directly from the villages, you will typically rely on street parking, so please park considerately.

Yes, there are plenty of shorter options. The Falkirk Wheel – Falkirk Wheel Cafe loop from Bonnybridge is an easy, 3.5-mile (5.6 km) walk that is mostly flat and can be completed in under two hours, making it perfect for a relaxed afternoon.