Scroggs Wood

The woodland around Stirling has proper potential if you're after a proper walk without the crowds of Loch Lomond itself. Scroggs Wood is one of those places that rewards actually getting your boots on and exploring rather than staying on the obvious path. You're looking at mixed forest - some mature trees, younger plantings, typical Scottish woodland really - with trails that wind through the lot. On a decent day the light filters through nicely and there's a sense of actually being away from things, even though you're only a few miles from Glasgow.

Walkers will get the most from it, particularly those who don't mind a bit of a scramble and aren't after a marked trail with viewpoints and interpretation boards. Parents with younger kids might find it a touch limited - there's only so long most will want to tromp through trees without a destination or a café at the end. History buffs won't find much here; it's just forest.

If you're camped at Loch Lomond Retreat or one of the other sites nearby - and most of them are within four miles - this works as a half-day excursion before heading back for lunch. It's the sort of place you'd do if you've already done the Loch itself and want something a touch different. Don't expect facilities. Come for the walk, not the experience. Worth an hour or two max, depending on fitness and how lost you want to get.