East Kilbride
Day Trips
Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with East Kilbride's hidden gems and unique experiences!
Start your day with a visit to the East Kilbride Village, where you can admire the charming historic buildings. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Scottish fare like porridge or a full Scottish breakfast. After breakfast, take a stroll through the village square and explore the quaint shops that offer local crafts and souvenirs.
In the afternoon, visit the East Kilbride Arts Centre to view local art exhibitions and perhaps catch a live performance. Enjoy a light lunch at a nearby bistro before heading to the nearby Calderglen Country Park for a peaceful walk. The park features beautiful gardens, woodlands, and even a small zoo, perfect for a family outing.
As evening approaches, dine at one of the many restaurants in East Kilbride, where you can try a classic Scottish dish like haggis or fresh seafood. After dinner, catch a movie at the Odeon cinema, which often showcases both new releases and independent films. Wrap up your day with a relaxing stroll through the village, taking in the beautiful evening lights.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation before heading to Muirshiel Country Park, located a short drive away. Enjoy the fresh air and stunning views as you explore the various walking trails that cater to all fitness levels. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including deer and an array of bird species, making it an excellent opportunity for nature photography.
After your morning hike, enjoy a packed picnic lunch amidst the natural beauty of the park. Engage in some birdwatching or visit the visitor center for educational displays about the local ecosystem. Spend the afternoon exploring the various trails and perhaps take a guided tour to learn more about the park's history and wildlife.
Return to East Kilbride for dinner at a cozy pub, where you can enjoy a pint of locally brewed beer. After your meal, consider visiting the nearby East Kilbride Golf Club for a round of twilight golf, enjoying the serene evening atmosphere. Conclude your day with a relaxing evening walk through the town's well-lit streets.
Start your morning with a visit to the Scottish Football Museum, located in nearby Hampden Park, where you can learn about the history of Scottish football. Enjoy breakfast at a local café before diving into the fascinating exhibits that showcase memorabilia and the evolution of the sport. Take your time to soak in the interactive displays and even try your hand at some football-related challenges.
In the afternoon, explore the nearby Burrell Collection, an impressive art collection set within beautiful parkland. Enjoy lunch at the café on-site, followed by a leisurely stroll through the surrounding Pollok Country Park, which boasts beautiful gardens and historic architecture. This park is a great spot to relax and appreciate the blend of nature and culture.
After returning to East Kilbride, treat yourself to an evening meal at a restaurant that offers fusion cuisine, combining traditional Scottish dishes with modern flavors. After dinner, consider attending a local theater performance at the East Kilbride Arts Centre for a taste of community creativity and talent. End your night with a dessert at a nearby ice cream parlor, savoring unique local flavors.
Kick off your day with a visit to the thrilling rides and attractions at the nearby M&D's Theme Park. Grab breakfast at the park's café, fueling up for a day filled with adventure and excitement. Spend the morning tackling roller coasters, bumper cars, and other exhilarating rides suitable for all ages.
After an action-packed morning, take a break for lunch at one of the park's family-friendly restaurants, offering a variety of options. Spend the afternoon enjoying the various attractions, including the arcade, mini-golf, and the water rides, making sure to take lots of pictures. Don't miss the chance to catch a live show or entertainment event that may be happening during your visit.
As the sun sets, enjoy a final round of rides and attractions before grabbing dinner at a nearby family-friendly restaurant. After your meal, consider visiting a local pub for some live music or entertainment to round off your exciting day. Finally, take a leisurely stroll through East Kilbride, reflecting on the day’s adventures.
Indulge in a slow morning by treating yourself to a spa day at one of the local wellness centers. Enjoy a nutritious breakfast that includes fresh fruit and smoothies to energize you for a day of pampering. Spend your morning indulging in a luxurious massage or facial treatment, allowing yourself to unwind fully.
After your relaxing spa morning, enjoy a light lunch at the spa or a nearby café that focuses on healthy options. Continue your day of relaxation with an afternoon yoga class or meditation session, helping to clear your mind and rejuvenate your spirit. If time permits, consider visiting a local beauty salon for a manicure or pedicure.
As evening approaches, savor a delightful dinner at a fine dining restaurant that emphasizes locally sourced ingredients. Post-dinner, unwind with a glass of wine at a nearby bar or lounge, enjoying the serene atmosphere. End your day with a peaceful walk through the picturesque streets of East Kilbride, reflecting on your day of self-care.
Begin your day at the East Kilbride Farmers' Market, where you can sample fresh produce and artisanal goods from local vendors. Enjoy breakfast at one of the market's food stalls, trying local specialties like freshly baked pastries and homemade jams. Engage with the vendors and learn about their products while picking up some unique souvenirs.
After exploring the market, head to a nearby craft workshop that offers hands-on experiences such as pottery or painting. Enjoy lunch at a local café, where you can discuss your creative ideas with fellow participants. Spend the afternoon immersing yourself in the arts, creating unique pieces to take home as mementos of your trip.
As the sun sets, join a local cooking class that focuses on traditional Scottish recipes, allowing you to learn and taste local cuisine. After cooking, enjoy a communal dinner with fellow participants, sharing stories and experiences from your travels. Conclude your evening with a visit to a local pub to enjoy some traditional Scottish music.
Set off early for a day trip to the stunning coastal town of Largs, located just a short drive from East Kilbride. Enjoy breakfast at a café along the waterfront, taking in views of the sea and the nearby islands. Spend the morning exploring the beach and perhaps visit the famous Nardini's ice cream parlor for a sweet treat.
After your beach visit, take a ferry to the Isle of Cumbrae for a scenic afternoon adventure. Rent a bicycle and explore the island’s picturesque landscapes, stopping for a picnic lunch by the coast. Enjoy the tranquility of the island, taking in views of the surrounding waters and wildlife.
Return to Largs for dinner at a seafood restaurant, where you can indulge in fresh catches of the day. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll along the promenade as the sun sets, capturing the beautiful views. Head back to East Kilbride, cherishing the memories of a delightful day by the sea.
Begin your historical exploration with a visit to the nearby Bothwell Castle, a magnificent structure that dates back to the 13th century. Enjoy breakfast at a local café before embarking on a guided tour of the castle, learning about its rich history and significance. Take time to wander the beautiful grounds, soaking in the panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
After your castle visit, head to the nearby town of Hamilton and explore the fascinating exhibits at the Hamilton Palace Museum. Enjoy lunch at a local eatery, sampling regional dishes as you recharge for more exploration. Spend your afternoon visiting the historic sites nearby, including the ruins of the former Hamilton Palace.
Return to East Kilbride for a delightful dinner at a restaurant featuring traditional Scottish cuisine. After dinner, consider attending a local community event or cultural evening to immerse yourself further in the area's heritage. End your day with a peaceful walk through East Kilbride, reflecting on the stories you’ve learned.
Start your day at the East Kilbride Shopping Centre, one of the largest indoor shopping centers in Scotland, where you can enjoy breakfast at a stylish café. Browse through a variety of shops, from high street fashion to unique boutiques, finding the perfect souvenirs to take home. Don’t forget to check out the local artisan shops for one-of-a-kind gifts.
Continue your shopping spree with a leisurely lunch at one of the center's numerous restaurants, offering a range of international cuisines. After lunch, explore the nearby East Kilbride Town Centre, where you can find more local shops and cafes. Take time to visit the local library or community center, where you may find interesting exhibitions or local events happening.
As the day winds down, enjoy dinner at a trendy restaurant that features a fusion of traditional Scottish and modern cuisine. After your meal, take in a live show or concert at the East Kilbride Arts Centre, immersing yourself in the local cultural scene. Wrap up your evening with a nightcap at a nearby bar, enjoying the lively atmosphere.