Balloch Castle Country Park
A view from Balloch Castle Country Park
See Loch Lomond's guide to Balloch Castle Country Park, the only country park in Loch Lomond & The Trossachs.
Getting to Balloch Castle Country Park
A variety of types of transport can get you to Balloch Castle Country Park. Balloch is at the end of a train line (from Glasgow), with the station within walking distance of the park; there is also a bus terminus nearby. On two wheels NCN7, the National Number 7 Lochs & Glens Way Cycle Route, go through the park. (read our guide for cycling onto Drymen through the park.) Sweeney's Cruises, the long-established cruise company, has a water bus service between Balloch and Luss. The long-distance John Muir Way passes through the park. If you're heading by car, there is parking at the main entrance to the park. For sat-nav, use the address - 20 Park Ave, Balloch, Alexandria G83 8JS.
Ballloch Castle Country Park, on the Number 7 Cycle Route
Location
Balloch Castle Country Park is adjacent to the River Leven, which flows into Loch Lomond. Across the loch is Cameron House Hotel, and you may get a good view of the distinctive Sea Plane taking off or landing.
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The History
Balloch Castle Country Park became a public park in the early 20th century; after being a private estate, the castle is now closed and not in use. The park hosts the finish of Kiltwalk, an annual charity walk from Glasgow. The park has also famously staged memorable music concerts with Runrig, REM and Oasis all playing in the 1990s.
River Leven
Alongside the bridge over the River Leven, there is a riverside footpath that leads into the park. As you enter the park, you will find a children’s playground nearby; there is also a small skate/cycle park.
Walled Garden
One of the highlights of the park is the beautiful walled garden.
More Gardens
Beyond the walled garden here are some of the other plants and flowers from the various other gardens in the park, including a secret garden.
Balloch Castle & Chinese Garden
At the top of the hill within the park is Balloch Castle. Next to it is the fantastic Chinese Garden, famed for its rhododendrons. Spring and autumn are great times to visit with some incredible and vibrant colours. There is an additional car park by the castle; get there by leaving the Moss o’ Balloch car park and turning left, follow this road heading out of the village until you see the sign for Balloch Castle Country Car Park.
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The Fairy Glen
Walk from the Chinese Garden in the opposite direction of the castle to get good views of Loch Lomond. (As seen at the top of this guide.) Eventually, you will come to The Fairy Glen and a woodland walk, which in Spring features beautiful bluebells. The path will eventually go alongside the loch, with access to beaches and onto the Slipway Cafe and a couple of children’s play parks.
Thanks for reading
Words and photography by Paul Saunders. Visit Paul’s Marketing and Photography websites for details of his services in Scotland.
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Buy our guidebook, 101 Things to Do in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs, packed with attractions, views, and activities to enjoy.