Thomas Muir Heritage Trail
A 13-mile long-distance path in East Dunbartonshire celebrating Thomas Muir, a local man known as ‘The Father of Scottish Democracy’. With map, statistics, and GPX route file.
Statistics and Files
Grid Ref: NS 610 795
Distance: 13 miles (21 km)
Time: 5–7 hours
Duration: 1 day
Ordnance Survey Explorer Maps (1:25,000):
342 Glasgow, Paisley, Rutherglen and Kirkintilloch
348 Campsie Fells, Kilsyth, Strathblane and Fintry
Summary
Thomas Muir of Huntershill (1765–1799) was a leading light in ‘The Friends of the People’, a political reform movement of the 1790s when only a significant minority of Scotland’s citizens had the right to vote. He was tried and found guilty of sedition and received the harsh sentence of being banished for 14 years to Botany Bay, Australia. In silencing the man, they created a martyr and a hero to many; he is often called the Father of Scottish Democracy.
The Heritage Trail offers visitors a great walking or cycling experience. The route itself stretches through some of East Dunbartonshire’s most attractive landscapes, passing towns and villages that have a direct link to the Thomas Muir story as interpreted by built heritage along the way. Regular waymarkers allow the trail to be navigated in full or in part and from either direction. The historic town of Kirkintilloch offers a natural halfway point along the route or an alternative start/finish location for those wishing a shorter experience. Most of the route is on established off-road rural and urban paths; the terrain is level and suitable for all ages whether on foot or bicycle. (Source: LDWA)