20 Best things to do in Callander, Scotland

Callander is a super pretty town that sits just inside Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park in the UK.

As the gateway to the park, it’s a popular destination for people looking to explore some of Scotland’s wilderness and natural beauty, as well as for those just looking for somewhere to mooch about on a nice afternoon.

But, don’t forget about the town itself, with a pretty riverfront, great shops cafes and restaurants, there’s no shortage of things to do in Callander.

We spent a month living super close to Callander in the village of Doune and visited this town many a time during that period. We’d also visited it several years before as part of our Scottish Highlands road trip after our friends got married here.

I’m sure we’ll be back plenty more times over the years too as it has so much to offer!

If you’re visiting the area and wondering what is there to do in Callander, check out my list of the best things to do in Callander below, as well as my picks for the top places to stay in Callander too.

How to get to Callander, Scotland

When it comes to how to get to Callander, Scotland, there are a number of different options.

One of the easiest ways to reach Callander by public transport is to take the train from Edinburgh or Glasgow to either Stirling or Dunblane and then hop on a bus to Callander. Stirling is located around 17 miles from Callander, while Dunblane is around 11 miles away.

You can book trains online in advance by using TheTrainline.com which makes it super easy to plan your journey ahead of time!

However, you may find it easier to rent a car if you have a lot of luggage or are planning on hiking since bus connections can be few and far between.

I use comparison sites like DiscoverCars and RentalCars to book my car rentals as it’s easy to check prices and compare the best deals!

If you’re visiting internationally, you can fly to either Glasgow or Edinburgh airports though Edinburgh is larger and usually has more flight connections internationally than Glasgow.

Skyscanner is what I use to find cheap flights.

For those driving to Callander, Edinburgh is around 52 miles away and takes just over an hour to reach via the M9 motorway. Glasgow, on the other hand, is located around 41 miles away and takes around 50 minutes to reach via the M80 motorway.

The best things to do in Callander

1. Grab afternoon tea at Roman Camp

If you’re looking to indulge in a traditional British treat during your visit to Callander, afternoon tea at the Roman Camp Hotel is an experience not to be missed.

Right at the southern end of the high street, the Roman Camp Hotel is a beautiful boutique hotel full of history and charm. Our friends got married here a few years ago and it’s such a great location for a wedding!

Roman Camp Hotels’ afternoon tea offering is a great thing to do during the afternoon in Callander. You’ll be treated to some delicious sandwiches, scones with cream and jam and then, of course, some delicious cakes too. Enjoy your afternoon tea with coffee or tea and relax in your beautiful surroundings.

Make sure you leave time to check out the gardens around the hotel. They’re absolutely beautiful!

2. Check out Bracklinn Falls

A visit to Bracklinn Falls is an absolute must if you’re in the Callander area. From the town centre, simply drive towards Bracklinn Falls Car Park, where you can begin your walk.

There are two walking routes to choose from. The longer circuit walk is 3.5 miles and takes you through some woodland with stunning views along the way. It’s a bit harder than the other option which is a 0.5-mile route more direct to the falls and the bridge over them.

View the falls from the bridge, which offers a spectacular vantage point!

Navigating while on the trail: You can find this hike on AllTrails which is my usual go-to for planning my hikes, navigating, checking trail conditions and, if hiking solo, making sure others know I’m safe. The OS Map app is one of the best hiking apps for trails in the UK and is just like having hundreds of OS maps in your pocket!

3. Go shopping in Callander

If you enjoy shopping, then you’ll be pleased to know that Callander has many great independent and outdoors-related stores so you can get your shopping fix!

In Callander, you’ll find lots of stores selling items by local artisans including pottery, art, textiles and more. It’s a great place to pick up a souvenir from your Scotland trip.

There are also plenty of outdoor shops in Callander so if you happen to have forgotten something for your upcoming walk near Loch Lomond, then you’re sure to find a replacement here.

4. Walk along the River Teith

A leisurely stroll along the River Teith is a great way to take in the natural beauty of Callander. From Callander, the River Teith flows all the way to the River Forth in Stirling.

One of the great things about walking along the River Teith is that it’s right in the heart of the town, so it’s easy to access no matter which direction you take.

If you’re visiting for a short break, you can park your car at Meadows Car Park (pay parking) and start your walk from there.

As you stroll along the riverbank, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the surrounding countryside, with plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the scenery.

5. Grab lunch from Mohr Bread

If you’re looking for a great spot to grab a bite to eat in Callander, Mohr Bread is a must-visit, especially for lunch!

The bakery is on Callander’s high street and is a popular spot, expect to have to queue at lunch.

The bread here is made using traditional methods and is baked fresh daily, it tastes so good!

I highly recommend grabbing a sandwich before a hike in the Trossachs National Park, or a walk elsewhere. The hot salmon baguette is a personal favourite of mine. The coffee is also excellent, made using freshly roasted beans and expertly brewed by the talented baristas.

6. Hike Ben Ledi, Callander’s Mountain

One of the most popular walks near Callander is hiking Ben Ledi, the town’s very own mountain that you can see from the high street.

This striking peak stands at 2,882 feet (so it’s just shy of being a Munro) and offers breathtaking views!

The trail to the summit of Ben Ledi is well-marked and relatively easy to follow, making it a great option for hikers of all levels of experience. Along the way, you’ll get to enjoy epic views of lochs and mountains.

OS Maps are awesome for hiking in the UK. I’ve never found anything quite like them when in other countries. They have all features like churches, rivers, peaks, viewpoints and more. You can get paper maps (which are great for finding new places), and their app is super useful too.

7. Listen to Live Music at The Crown Hotel in Callander

For those looking to enjoy some live entertainment during their visit to Callander, The Crown Hotel is the perfect spot.

This historic hotel, located in the heart of the town, has a long tradition of hosting live music events, featuring both local and national talent on Sunday evenings.

The Crown Hotel is also known for its great food, with a menu featuring a range of traditional Scottish dishes.

8. Enjoy the Callander meadows walk

For a pleasant and easy riverside walk in Callander, head to the Meadows Car Park and begin the Callander Meadows Walk. This 1.5-mile trail winds along the River Teith and is suitable for all types of walkers.

Along the way, you’ll also be able to enjoy views of Ben Ledi!

9. Explore the Trossachs Trail

The Trossachs Trail is a 65-kilometre trail that winds through the Trossachs between Callander and Aberfoyle. This trail is perfect for those who want to explore the local villages, historic sites, natural wonders, and shops in the area.

In addition to hiking, the Trossachs Trail is also an excellent jumping-off point for other outdoor activities, such as biking and boating.

10. Check out Callander’s Hamilton Toy Museum

For a fun and unique attraction to visit during your stay in Callander, be sure to check out the Hamilton Toy Museum, especially if you’re looking for things to do in Callander with kids.

This museum houses one of the largest privately-owned toy collections in the UK and inside you’ll find so many different toys from throughout history.

Although the museum can be seen in as little as an hour, it’s worth taking your time and exploring all the nooks and crannies of this fascinating attraction. You never know what hidden gems you might discover tucked away among the toys.

11. Visit Galleria Luti in Callander

Art lovers should definitely check out Galleria Luti in Callander. This contemporary art gallery, located on Ancaster Square, showcases some of the best local artwork in the area, including bold paintings, sculptures, and jewellery, with a strong emphasis on colour.

Owned by a mother-daughter team, the gallery has been showcasing a rotating selection of artists since it first opened in 2006. They exhibit works from both established and up-and-coming artists, making it the perfect spot to discover new talent.

12. Find some Scottish Highland Cows (coos) near Callander

If you’re looking for a unique and memorable experience during your visit to Callander, be sure to check out Kilmahog’s Trossachs Woolen Mill, just a five-minute drive from the town centre.

Highland cows are a Scottish breed known for their long horns and wavy hair that covers their eyes, which helps them survive harsh winters. You’ll likely see many Scottish cow souvenirs, such as postcards, wall hangings, keychains, calendars, and soft toys in souvenir shops.

Besides the woollen mill, the farm is home to a group of friendly and photogenic Highland cows, who have become a popular attraction in their own right.

When you visit the farm, you. can buy packs of lettuce, potato and carrot to fee the cows and trust me, you’re going to want to do that as they’re just so super cute!

In addition to the cows, the Woolen Mill also boasts a souvenir shop and cafe, making it the perfect spot to grab a bite to eat or pick up a unique Scottish souvenir.

What to do near Callander

13. Go Hiking in Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park

For outdoor enthusiasts, there’s no better place to explore than Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. This park offers some of the best hiking opportunities in Scotland and the UK.

There are dozens of hiking trails throughout the park, ranging from easy strolls to challenging treks.

Some of the most popular routes include the West Highland Way, Ben Lomond, and the Rob Roy Way.

There are also beautiful lochs such as Loch Lomond itself and Loch Katrine where you can enjoy a boat cruise.

Navigating while on the trail: You can find this hike on AllTrails which is my usual go-to for planning my hikes, navigating, checking trail conditions and, if hiking solo, making sure others know I’m safe. The OS Map app is one of the best hiking apps for trails in the UK and is just like having hundreds of OS maps in your pocket!

14. Head to a distillery near Callander

No visit to Scotland would be complete without sampling some of the country’s famous whisky. Luckily, there are several distilleries located near Callander, offering visitors the chance to learn more about the whisky-making process and taste some of Scotland’s finest spirits.

One popular distillery near Callander is Deanston Distillery, located just a few miles away in the village of Doune. Another nearby distillery is Glengoyne Distillery which is a distillery known for its handcrafted, non-chill filtered whiskies, which are made using traditional methods and natural ingredients.

Whether you’re a whisky connoisseur or simply curious about the process, a visit to a distillery near Callander is a must.

15. Check out the Falls of Leny

If you’re looking for another impressive sight near Kilmahog, don’t miss the Falls of Leny.

From the Trossachs Woollen Mill, continue driving on A84 towards the highlands, and you’ll find Ben Ledi car park on the right side. The falls are located on the left side, and there’s not much of a walk to reach them so they’re worth checking out.

16. Visit Stirling Castle

Located just 30 minutes outside of Callander, Stirling Castle is a must-see for history buffs and anyone interested in Scotland’s rich cultural heritage.

The castle has significant historical and architectural significance, with most of its buildings dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries. Once the most famous royal residence in Scotland, with kings and queens throughout Scottish history being born or crowned there, including Mary, Queen of Scots, today, the castle is a Scheduled Ancient Monument and a popular tourist attraction.

Some of the highlights of Stirling Castle include the Great Hall, Queen Anne Gardens, the Palace Vaults, and the Chapel Royal.

While guided tours are available, you can also just explore the castle on your own. Just be sure to book your timed tickets ahead of time for guaranteed entry.

When I visited I was surprised at just how much there was to see in the Castle, my favourite part was walking the castle walls towards the far end of the entrance, and enjoying the views out towards the hills of the Trossachs National Park.

17. See the Wallace Monument in Stirling

Seeing the Wallace Monument in Stirling is an excellent activity for those visiting Callander.

About 30 minutes away by car, the monument stands tall at 220 feet and commemorates the Scottish hero, William Wallace. The monument is perched on top of the Abbey Craig, offering stunning views of the surrounding area.

You can climb the monument’s spiral staircase, which has 246 steps, to reach the top and take in the stunning panoramic views. I’d recommend doing this since the top balcony of the monument provides an unobstructed view of Stirling Castle, the Ochil Hills, and the Forth Valley.

Apart from the stunning views, the monument also features an exhibition that showcases Wallace’s life and legacy. You can learn about Wallace’s life, from his humble beginnings to his rise as a hero who fought for Scotland’s independence.

18. Hop aboard the SS Sir Walter Scott Steamship on Loch Katrine

Exploring Scotland‘s picturesque lochs by boat is a unique and memorable experience. That’s why you should consider booking a water tour of Loch Katrine.

The crew at Loch Katrine offers various tours throughout the day, but some require pre-booking, so make sure to check the requirements ahead of time.

The most famous ship on Loch Katrine is the Steamship Sir Walter Scott. Named after the renowned Scottish writer, this steamship has been offering one-of-a-kind trips around the loch since 1900.

Loch Katrine also has two other boats available for tourists: The Lady of the Lake and the Rob Roy III.

19. Discover the BliSS trail of art

If you’re an art enthusiast, don’t miss the BliSS Trail.

The trail starts in Lochearnhead and connects to the villages of Strathyre, Balquhidder, and St. Fillans. It features a mix of eclectic art and architectural installations created by a range of Scottish artists.

The five-mile trail showcases 24 permanent sculptures and is the 2018 Scottish Thistle winner. There are also temporary structures on display for short periods.

You can drive the trail and view the sculptures from the roadside or take Sustrans cycle route 7 either on foot or by bicycle.

20. Visit Doune Castle

Just a few miles from Callander, Doune Castle is a must-see for history buffs and fans of the hit TV show “Outlander”. This medieval castle was built in the 14th century and has been featured in a number of popular movies and TV shows.

You can pay to enter Doune Castle where you can explore the Great Hall, kitchens, and courtyard.

I also highly recommend taking a walk around the grounds and river that surround the castle. This was one of my favourite running routes when we were living in Doune and it’s super pretty and peaceful.

Where to stay in Callander Scotland

When it comes to where to stay in Callander, these places are are my top recommendations. Places book up quickly in Callander during the summer months, so I recommend booking your favourite place a few months in advance to avoid disappointment.

• Roman Camp Hotel: If you’re looking for a luxurious and secluded getaway in Scotland, the Roman Camp Country House Hotel is a perfect choice. With an award-winning restaurant, and beautiful rooms featuring original period features and modern amenities, you can enjoy a relaxing and indulgent stay in beautiful Callander.
• Ben Ledi View, 2-bed holiday home in Callander: Ben Ledi View is a 4-star holiday home located in Callander, with 2 bedrooms, a kitchen and free private parking, it’s the perfect base for exploring the surrounding area, including Loch Katrine, Mugdock Country Park, and the Lake of Menteith.
• Callander Hostel: For budget-conscious travellers, Callander Hostel in the charming town of Callander offers comfortable accommodations with private or shared shower facilities. This hostel is the perfect base for exploring the nearby Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park.

Final thoughts on what to do in Callander and Callander attractions

There are so many fun things to do in Callander, a picturesque town that sits at the foot of the beautiful Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park.

From hiking and exploring the stunning landscapes of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park to visiting historic castles and museums and shopping for local crafts and souvenirs.

Some of the top activities include hiking up Ben Ledi, admiring the Highland cows at Kilmahog, exploring Doune Castle, and enjoying afternoon tea.

Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, Callander and the surrounding areas have something for everyone.

FAQs on things to do in Callander