What to do in Gartmore

Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park offer some of the most spectacular scenery in the country, just a 1-hour drive north of Glasgow. The villages in the area are steeped in history and legend, and locally sourced food takes pride of place at many of the local restaurants.

Mingle with academics and undergraduates as you wander around the halls of learning in the University of Glasgow. You don't have to be enrolled to enjoy the historic sights of Scotland's second-oldest college or to attend the public lectures and concerts that the university hosts. Head to Gilmorehill Campus in the west end of the city for the main attractions.

Overlooking the town from an extinct volcanic crag, the imposing Stirling Castle was the seat of Scottish kings and rulers for many centuries. The landmark, dominating every view of the area, is equally impressive inside, with brightly colored rooms perfectly preserved to give visitors an insight into the lives of Scotland's past monarchs. Learn about their births, marriages and deaths through interactive exhibits and informative displays.

Discover tropical plants, stroll along the banks of the River Kelvin and picnic on the bright green lawns at the Glasgow Botanic Gardens. Glaswegian Thomas Hopkirk, a botanist, founded the gardens in 1817 with a core of 3,000 plants. The gardens moved to its current location in 1839 and opened in 1842 as a members-only garden. Today, this public park attracts almost half a million visitors per year.

Doune Castle is a partially ruined medieval structure in the Stirling countryside. It stands atop a hill with a commanding view of a pleasant area of forests and rivers. Admire the well-preserved halls, courtyard and tower rising above the surrounding region.