Bar Hill Fort

Just off B8023. Park at the Miners Institute or the Church in Twechar.

The Fort is on the Antonine Wall and incorporates the remain of a Roman fort and an even older pre historic settlement.

The fort is accessed from a pedestrian footpath, accessed directly from the road. The path is a slow but sometimes a wee bit steep climb uphill, suitable for most abilities. Bear left when you get the chance, and are past the farm buildings to get to the fort. You can continue to walk beyond if you desire, and there is a ridged woodland nearby perfect for that (obvious when you're at the top of the hill)

The fort itself has historic plaques explaining the archaeology you can see and incorporates the remains of a bath house. the Antonine Wall was the northern most point of the Roman Empire at it's peak, and runs right across central Scotland. Bar Hill Fort is one of the best preserved bits of the wall. There are lovely views down across Kilsyth. When you're done with your walk you can stop at the Auchinstarry Marina, which has a pub/restaurant. There are also picnic tables there, but my advice is take a packed lunch and eat it at the top of the hill. This marina is part of the forth and clyde canal, which itself offers extended opportunities for walking. There is also a small hilly trail (maybe a mile) next to the free car park at the marina. The marina has a small number of canal vessels docked there. In peak season there's usually a take away van on offer too.

The archaeology on offer is great and there's loads of open space for the dogs to run free. There is a working farm with fenced fields en route, so if your dog is excitable around livestock, take a lead. It is a historical site of some importance, so it's appreciated by the rest of us if no mess is left.