Each walk has a description, a Fact File (including nearest wheelchair-accessible toilet), a photo and a map with paths graded for different wheelchairs or scooters. Due to copyright restrictions the maps are only available in the book Walking on Wheels.

Forth & Clyde Canal
Walk 41 - Bowling to Glasgow

Much has been written on the history and refurbishment of one of Scotland's transport heritages - the Forth & Clyde (F&C) Canal. A recent publication from British Waterways called Exploring Scotland's Lowland Canals and the Millennium Link is worthy of its £1 purchase price. The section of canal, the last to be built, which links the City of Glasgow with the Clyde Estuary was finished in 1790.

Typical canal towpath

On my visit in November 2004 I found that 95% of the towpath was level and of reasonable surface. There are 13 locks and occasionally the gradient, although short, could be as steep as 1:9. Puddles were sometimes deep and could be muddy, especially at some of the path's 25 chicanes. All chicanes are now wide enough for scooter access.

This 12-mile stretch of the canal offers both urban and rural vistas. From the west you can scan the wide Clyde Estuary and draw in breath while under the awesome Erskine Bridge which towers above. You may wish to stop to shop at Clydebank or have a drink at Lock 27 pub at Temple. The restored Maryhill Locks are another highlight, and on this stretch you may well see swans and other wildlife. South of Firhill and if the weather is fair you will enjoy a breathtaking view of much of Glasgow, including the impressive University of Glasgow.

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