Glasgow, GLG Parks & Gardens

Only an hour's drive from Glasgow is Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, a natural wonderland encompassing the silent waters of Loch Lomond, the glens of the Trossachs and the mountains of Breadalbane. Visitors hike or bike the paths, challenge the hills or even try canyoning. Water sports include wakeboarding and water skiing, windsurfing and sailing.

Located outside the city of Glasgow, Chatelherault Country Park has an area of 200 hectares (500 acres), with 16 km (10 mi) of walking paths meandering through the ancient oaks and woodland. On the grounds is the restored, 18th century hunting lodge that was constructed to be used by the Dukes of Hamilton, whose grand palace also stood on the grounds. Before setting out on the paths, visitors may stop at the house, which now houses an exhibitions gallery, displays, a gift shop, a café and a reception desk

Dating to the 15th century, Galsgow Greens is the city's oldest and most venerated park. It was initially used as an area for the citizens to allow their livestock to graze, to hang washing and swimming. In the 19th century, the swampy land was drained and evened, to more resemble its present-day look. Several monuments and sights of interest have been added to the park over the centuries, including Nelson's Monument, in honour of Admiral Horatio Nelson, St. Andrew's Suspension Bridge and the Doulton Fountain.

Glasgow's Botanic Gardens were created in 1939, and initially a membership fee had to be paid for citizens to use its grounds. For a small charge, the rest of Glasgow could visit the gardens on Saturdays. The main glasshouse grows seasonal displays of plants, including a much-acclaimed Orchid Collection. Another glasshouse includes some very interesting carnivorous plants, and another grows various cacti found in hot and dry regions.

Glasgow has the most public parks out of any other city in the United Kingdom, and Kelvingrove is one of the city's favourites. Designed by Sir Joseph Paxton in the mid-19th century, Kelvingrove is a classic Victorian park. Supporting several hundred species of plantlife, the park's curvaceous landscaping follows the banks of the River Kelvin. Highlights include the Stewart Memorial Fountain, erected in 1872, the granite staircase, the Sunlight Cottages of 1901 and the Highland Light Infantry Monument of 1906.

Glasgow's social history museum, the People's Palace traces the history of the Glaswegian people from 1175 on. Witness the rise of the tobacco lords, who lived in lush mansions while their workers were forced to crowd into cramped "Single Ends". Also on display are photographs, drawings and film clips of the city's past, and the surrounding Winter Gardens provide a pleasant spot for a stroll.