Things to do in Renfrewshire, indoors and outdoors

There are so many things to do in Renfrewshire. Whether you’re craving fresh air and open landscapes, free things to do with the kids, relaxed days with friends, or a chance to uncover fascinating local history, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. 

Hikes, hills and hidden heritage 

If you’re looking to stretch your legs this summer, Renfrewshire offers an impressive variety of walks – from sweeping moorland hikes to gentle lochside strolls, quiet woodland trails and even boasting hidden waterfalls that are waiting to be discovered. 

Easily reachable on foot from Johnstone Railway Station, the Bluebell and Rannoch Woods offer local routes that feel remote, proving perfect for families to play and explore away from the hustle and bustle of the town. After a wander through the woodland, take the connecting path up Windy Hill where panoramic views open up across Paisley, Glasgow and the Kilpatrick Hills. 

For those with a taste for history, Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park is home to the remains of a former barytes mine, located around 4km from the visitor centre. Accessible only on foot, the remote site offers a glimpse into Renfrewshire’s industrial past. A wind-up audio post installed in 2021 shares the memories of former miner Harry Pratt, bringing the landscape’s story vividly to life. 

If you’re in the mood for coastal views without leaving Renfrewshire, Boden Boo in Erskine provides a sandy shoreline ideal for a relaxed beach day. For those who prefer to keep moving, a network of nearby paths offers easy walking and cycling routes along the Clyde. 

Tucked away near Lochwinnoch, the ruins of Calder Glen Woollen Mill sit amid a peaceful glen and waterfall – a hidden gem well worth seeking out. And near Howwood and Kilbarchan, the Clochoderick Stone adds a touch of folklore to your walk. Once believed to have been used by druids to pass judgement based on the stone’s movement, its story captures the imagination of many, even if the stone no longer rocks. 

Fruit, farms and fun

Little ones (and bigger ones) love a trip to the farm and here in Renfrewshire we have a great offer to keep all ages entertained. At Lamont Farm in Erskine, you can meet all kinds of animals including ducks, rabbits, horses, pigs and goats. Don’t forget to check out the reptiles! 

Food lovers will also find plenty to enjoy. Barnhill and Arkleston Farm Shops showcase the best of locally grown produce, alongside artisan goods and seasonal treats. For a true taste of summer, East Yonderton Farm offers the chance to pick your own strawberries – a simple pleasure that’s perfect for creating lasting family memories, with the added bonus of watching planes take off and land nearby. 

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Across Renfrewshire, local play parks offer plenty of space for children to play, with swings, climbing frames and open green areas ideal for both energetic youngsters and younger children alike. Barshaw Park remains a firm family favourite, thanks to its charming boating pond and much-loved miniature railway. 

From soft play and trampoline park action to adventure golf, arcades and bowling, GRID offers something to keep the whole family entertained. With so much under one roof, it’s an ideal choice for a rainy summer’s day. After working up an appetite, take a break and refuel in one of the many eateries before heading back for more fun. 

Memories, mills and music 

For those keen to delve deeper into the area’s past, Renfrewshire’s museums offer an engaging journey through time. 

Johnstone History Museum, established and run by the Johnstone History Society, captures the stories and memories that have shaped the town, while Renfrew Museum, located within Renfrew Town Hall, explores the area’s past and present through the elements of earth, fire, air and water. 

Renfrewshire’s strong connection to weaving and textiles is another story waiting to be explored. Paisley’s Thread Mill Museum provides a fantastic insight into the area’s thread-making past, while Kilbarchan Weaver’s Cottage and the Sma’ Shot Cottages in Paisley bring the lives of weavers vividly to life. 

After a day of discovery, Renfrewshire’s lively music scene offers the perfect way to unwind. From intimate gigs in local pubs and cafés to larger performances across the area, there’s always something happening. Music lovers can also follow Paisley’s Music History Walking Trail, celebrating everyone from punk pioneers to Paolo Nutini, Gerry Rafferty and Robert Tannahill. 

Spas, sport and sightseeing 

When it’s time to slow the pace a little, Renfrewshire offers a range of luxurious spa hotels and retreats designed for rest and relaxation. 

Set on the banks of the Clyde, the recently refurbished Mar Garden Spa at Mar Hall combines contemporary comfort with a striking gothic backdrop, creating a truly indulgent setting. At nearby Gleddoch, the outdoor pool and relaxation area boast sweeping views across the Clyde and surrounding countryside. Both destinations offer a range of treatments, perfect for a rejuvenating escape. 

For a more active way to unwind, swimming remains a simple and enjoyable option for families. OneRen operates pools across Paisley, Linwood, Erskine, Renfrew and Johnstone, with everything from public swim sessions to family-friendly leisure pools featuring flumes and wave machines. 

Renfrewshire is home to several golf courses that offer picturesque landscapes, historic clubhouses and courses lined with natural beauty. All courses welcome you with open arms, offer a variety of facilities designed for all skill levels and have clubhouses perfect for pre- or post-round refreshments. 

For those keen to venture a little further, Renfrewshire is an ideal base for exploring. Take to the skies with a helicopter tour from Inchinnan Helipad and enjoy spectacular aerial views of Glasgow, the Erskine Bridge and Loch Lomond. Prefer to keep your feet on the ground? The flight simulator at Ascent Aviation lets you experience the thrill of take-off and landing from airports around the world, all from the comfort of the cockpit. 

With so many places to explore and stories to uncover, Renfrewshire offers the perfect backdrop for adventures all year round – right on your doorstep.