Thinking about walking the West Highland Way? You’re in for something special. It’s one of Scotland’s most famous long-distance walks—96 miles of lochs, hills, fresh air, and views that’ll stop you in your tracks (sometimes literally).
Before you lace up your boots, here’s a friendly Glasgow-style guide to help you get started—without making any classic mistakes along the way.
📍 Where Does It Start? (And How Do You Even Say It?)
The West Highland Way starts in Milngavie—just outside Glasgow.
Now, quick heads up… it’s pronounced “Mul-guy.”
Not Miln-gavie, not Mil-in-gavie—honestly, don’t worry if you get it wrong. Most people do at first!
You can get there easily by train from Glasgow city centre.
🛑 Quick Tip Before You Go
Here’s something a lot of walkers don’t realise:
👉 There aren’t many outdoor gear shops right at the start of the trail
So if you’ve forgotten anything (and plenty of people do), it’s best to sort it before you reach Milngavie.
😅 “I’ve Forgotten Something…” (Don’t Panic)
It happens all the time.
You’ve packed your bag, you’re ready for the adventure… then suddenly:
👉 “Wait… did I pack my gas?”
👉 “Where’s my midge spray?”
👉 “I knew I forgot something…”
Don’t worry—you’re not the first, and you won’t be the last.
📍 Where to Get Last-Minute Supplies
If you’re coming from Glasgow, there’s an easy stop on the way:
👉 Get off the train at Hillfoot (just one stop before Milngavie)
From there:
- Walk towards the petrol station
- Keep going straight
- You’ll see us on your right
👉 West End Outdoors
190 Milngavie Road, Bearsden
We’re a local outdoor shop with everything you might need before starting the West Highland Way, including:
- Camping gas & fuel
- Trail food and meals
- Walking poles
- Waterproofs and essentials
And yes—if you’ve forgotten something, we’ve probably heard it before!
🎒 What Should You Pack?
You don’t need to overthink it, but a few things are essential:
Must-haves:
- Waterproof jacket and trousers (this is Scotland after all!)
- Comfortable walking boots
- Backpack (30–50L)
- Water and snacks
- Map or GPS
Often forgotten:
- Camping gas or fuel 🔥
- Midge repellent 🦟
- Blister plasters
👉 These are small things—but they make a big difference.
🗺️ The Route (In Simple Terms)
The walk usually takes 5 to 8 days, depending on your pace.
You’ll travel from:
- Milngavie → Drymen
- Along Loch Lomond
- Through Glencoe
- Into the Highlands
- Finishing in Fort William
It’s a mix of easy paths, challenging sections, and incredible scenery.
🌦️ What’s the Weather Like?
In short: unpredictable.
You might get sunshine, rain, wind… sometimes all in one day.
👉 Best advice? Bring waterproofs and be ready for anything.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Wearing brand new boots (hello blisters)
- Packing too much
- Forgetting essentials like fuel or food
- Leaving things until the last minute
A little preparation goes a long way.
🧠 Final Advice Before You Start
Before you head to Milngavie:
✔ Double-check your bag
✔ Make sure you’ve got your essentials
✔ Pick up anything you’ve missed
If not…
👉 stop in and get sorted before you start the trail
👍 Stop By and Say Hello
If you’re passing through Glasgow on your way:
👉 West End Outdoors
📍 190 Milngavie Road, Bearsden
🚆 One stop before Milngavie (Hillfoot)
Opening hours:
- Weekdays: 8:30am
- Weekends: 9am
- Open until 5:30pm (5pm Sunday)
We’re easy to find, friendly, and always happy to help—whether you need a last-minute item or just a bit of advice before you set off.
🚶 Enjoy the Journey
Walking the West Highland Way is an incredible experience. Take your time, enjoy the scenery, and don’t worry if things don’t go perfectly—that’s all part of the adventure.
Just make sure you’ve got everything you need before you go…
👉 especially your gas 😉