Magnificent Eleven (11 miles)
A convenient entry point to this urban and rural loop is Cathcart Station. Head along Rhannan Road and turn left on to Snuff Mill Road to reach a high stone bridge above the White Cart Water. Cross over, pausing to take in the picturesque scene. We are making a clockwise circuit and it's best to carry detailed route instructions as the clarity of signage on the trail is variable. Only a general summary of the trek can be provided here. We soon stand upon the grassy Court Knowe plateau with its fine views and historical connections to Mary, Queen of Scots. After passing the remains of Cathcart Castle, a spell of street walking takes us into King's Park. The highlights here are Aitkenhead House and the walled garden.
A zig-zagged ascending path leads us through Croft Park and we branch off Croftfoot Road to follow the Cityford Burn. This brings us to Ardencraig Road which sweeps around the fringes of the sprawling Cathkin Braes Country Park. Inside the green space, the trail continues through meadows and woodland, eventually reaching the highest point within municipal Glasgow, with a fantastic outlook across our biggest city and to the hills beyond. Don't follow the ridge line all the way back down to the main road, instead look for markers pointing left into the woodland. We traverse open country, skirt fields, follow paths and farm tracks before once again hitting the White Cart Water. The route runs behind a large cemetery but you can also cut through it. We then enter the massive Linn Park and rejoin the river. Holmwood House - owned by the National Trust - is an architectural marvel near the end of our exploration of Glasgow's south side.
