Forth and Clyde Canal: Stockingfield Jcn to Kilsyth

The Forth & Clyde Canal was designed by the eminent civil engineer John Smeaton and completed in 1790. This stage leads from Stockingfield Junction in Maryhill, Glasgow out into the countryside, through the town of Kirkintilloch and on to Kilsyth.

Terrain

Variable grade surfaced towpath

Public Transport

Rail stations at Gilschochill near the start of the stage, and at Croy 2km from the end. There are also good bus links both from near the start, in Kirkintilloch town centre and in Kilsyth.

Start

Stockingfield canal junction, Maryhill. Open start point in Google Maps for directions.

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Grade (key)

Bog Factor (key)

Walk Statistics

Distance: 19km / 11.75 miles
Time: 4 - 5 hours
Ascent: 17m (Profile)
Start Grid Ref: NS571690

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Accommodation

Walk Description

Stage 1

To reach the canal from Gilschochill station, head south (left coming out of the station) along Cadder Road and then bear right at the t-junction with Lochburn road. Just before this heads under the canal turn sharply left up a ramp to double back up to the canal and continue east along the towpath. The canal now regains a decidedly rural feel, but remains within the Glasgow suburbs as it passes Possil Marsh Nature Reserve, a shallow loch surrounded by a range of habitats providing food and shelter for over 150 bird species including reed bunting, redshank and water rail. The route progresses for some distance without interruption before reaching a restored stable block adjacent to the Glasgow Road Bridge now housing a restaurant overlooking boat moorings.

Stage 2

Kirkintilloch is soon entered, a town that experienced rapid growth once the canal arrived in 1773 and an inland port was established. A railway link to Glasgow was built in the 1820s allowing Kirkintilloch to further develop as an industrial centre for weaving and a major shipbuilding centre for both canal and ocean-going vessels. It is possible to end the walk here and obtain onward or return transport via Lenzie Rail Station, 2km south of the town centre. Otherwise, ascend to the roadbridge, cross the road and rejoin the towpath on the far side. Pass under a further roadbridge and over the Luggie Aquaduct, formerly crossing a railway line as well as Luggie Water. Hillhead Bridge, a swingbridge, marks the former location of Kirkintilloch's inland harbour that brought so much prosperity to the town. Pass this and stride out into farmland once more.

Stage 3

Pass the derelict Shirva Stables at Twechar before reaching the large Auchinstarry Basin and 50 berth marina just outside Kilsyth. The marina also houses Scotland's first eco pub as well as a hotel and picnic facilties. Croy Rail Station can be reached by crossing Auchinstarry Bridge and heading south along the minor road for 2km, and Kilsyth town centre by following the road north a similar distance.

Next stage: Kilsyth to Falkirk

Route: Phil Turner

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