Explore the John Muir Way – Stay at Kirkhouse Inn, Strathblane

The John Muir Way is one of Scotland’s great coast-to-coast trails, stretching 134 miles (215 km) from Helensburgh on the west coast to Dunbar on the east. Named after John Muir, the pioneering Scottish-born naturalist and conservationist known as the “Father of the National Parks,” the route celebrates his enduring legacy of protecting wild places and inspiring others to connect with nature. Born in Dunbar in 1838, Muir later emigrated to the United States, where his writing and activism helped create Yosemite National Park and laid the foundations for the modern conservation movement.

Walking or cycling the John Muir Way offers a unique cross-section of Scotland’s landscapes, linking its vibrant cities, peaceful countryside, and rich cultural heritage. The route passes through Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, taking in landmarks such as Balloch Castle Country Park, Mugdock Country Park, Linlithgow Palace, and the dramatic Forth Bridges. Each section offers its own highlights — from coastal cliffs and canals to woodlands and rolling farmland.

The Kirkhouse Inn, located in Strathblane, lies directly on the route between Balloch and Kilsyth, making it an ideal stopover for walkers and cyclists tackling this stage. Guests can expect comfortable rooms, secure bike storage, hearty food, and a warm Scottish welcome — the perfect place to rest, recharge, and reflect before continuing east or west.

Whether you’re completing the full journey or exploring a local section, the John Muir Way captures the spirit of adventure that defined Muir’s life. Staying at Kirkhouse Inn lets you experience a piece of that story firsthand, surrounded by the natural beauty that inspired one of the world’s greatest environmental champions.

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