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Glasgow may be the most densely populated city in Scotland but there are plenty of places to explore and relax in. With many people not having access to a garden, the parks and woodlands around our cities can be great places for our health and wellbeing.   

Research has also shown that play and learning in woodland and greenspaces leads to a range of benefits for children’s development, including better concentration, better communication skills, improved balance and coordination, increased confidence and appreciation of the outdoors.

We look at five of our favourite places around Glasgow. To find a forest near you click the link below.

Find a forest near you

Greenoakhill

Drone shot of young trees with motorway and houses in the background.

Greenoakhill is an ongoing project to transform a former landfill site into a green oasis on the edge of Glasgow. Restoration work already features newly planted trees, paths and benches. If you want to get involved there is also a volunteering group with our Community Ranger, where you can take part in a range of conservation activities.

Plan your next visit to Greenoakhill

Cuningar Loop

 Two children on swings.

Cuningar Loop is now a vibrant community woodland after previously being derelict land. Here you can slow down and reflect with the public art projects and sculptures. If you would like something more active there is  a woodland workout area, an adventure play area, a bike track and Scotland's first outdoor bouldering park.  

Plan your next visit to Cuningar Loop

Auchenshuggle

Large branch with backlit autumn leaves of gold, green and orange.

To the east of Cuningar Loop is Auchenshuggle. While it may be close to a motorway, this predominantly broadleaf woodland feels very tucked away as woodland birds dart between the trees. Auchenshuggle is a great place to visit in autumn as the leaves turn yellow, orange and gold.    

Plan your next visit to Auchenshuggle

Lennox Forest 

Some trees in the foreground on a harvested site with hills in the background.

Lennox Forest to the north of Glasgow gives great glimpses over the city as well as the feeling of being miles away. A range of volcanic hills called the Campsie Fells form an impressive backdrop to the area, with wide forest roads offering a range of walk lengths.

Plan your next visit to Lennox Forest

Boden Boo

Two people walking on a leafy path.

To the west of Glasgow you can see the Erskine Bridge from a very different perspective. At Boden Boo the bridge towers above as below you can get close to nature. Here you'll find informal trails, great picnic spots and even a riverside beach!  

Plan your next visit to Boden Boo

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