Speirs Wharf and Maryhill Locks, Glasgow

This walking route is rich in waterways history, and perfect for anyone with a passion for the canals.

This walk starts at Speirs Wharf, originally Grain Mills and a Sugar Refinery, and later bonded warehouses. Taking the towpath in a north-westerly direction, you'll pass Old Basin, the original terminus of the Glasgow Branch until the canal was extended to Port Dundas. The bascule bridge here was renovated in 1988.

Continue on past Ruchill Park, under the Bridge and on past Ruchill Spillway which is one of the many along the length of the canal that controls water levels by means of sluices.

Following on past here, you will come to Stockingfield Junction, or 'Three Ways', where the Glasgow Branch meets the main line. Veer left up the mainline to get to Maryhill lock flight - five locks joined by oval basins.

At the top lock, turn left where the River Kelvin meets the canal and follow the Kelvin Walkway for the last one and a half miles back to the bridge at Blisland Drive.

Getting there

Parking: Parking is available at Speirs Wharf on Craighall Road, off Maryhill Road opposite Firhill Basin and by Maryhill Locks.

Public transport: Glasgow is easily accessible by road, rail and bus.

Waypoints