Forest bathing at Shielhill Glen

Shielhill Glen lies in Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park in the hills above Inverkip and Greenock. It is a Site of Special Scientific Interest for its self-regenerating native broadleaved woodland of silver birch, oak, ash and rowan, which runs down to the Kip Water. The nature trail drops into the glen and follows the water, then climbs back along part of the Kelly Cut, an old aqueduct, with views out over the Firth of Clyde.

The circuit starts from the Greenock Cut Visitor Centre at Cornalees Bridge and is about two and a half to three kilometres, roughly an hour. Nearly a kilometre of it is raised wooden boardwalk, with bridges over the burn and steps on the way down, so it is easier underfoot than many glens, though the descent is rough and narrow in places. There is no public transport to the start. The trail was reported closed in mid 2025, so check with the park before you go.