Home Report Blanefield

Blanefield is an affluent, picturesque village with a rural feel of roughly 1,800 residents in the Stirling council area, sharing a contiguous border with Strathblane to the east though separated officially by the Blane Burn. Although in the Stirling council area, it is predominantly a dormitory settlement for commuters working in Glasgow which is about 10 ½ miles away by the A879 road.

The village as we know it today formed during the 19th century when the industrial revolution brought employment through local textile industries. There is no sign of this industry in the village today. Instead, we have a lovely, rural commuter town with many people working neighbouring towns such as Bearsden, Glasgow, Milngavie, and Stirling.

While many residents do commute for work, tourism plays an important role in the local economy. Tourists visit the area when passing through to Loch Lomond, or for the walks taking in the local scenery of the Moorland moors. To the west is the volcanic plug Dumgoyne, Glengoyne Distillery and of course the Trossachs National Park. The West Highland Way also passes close to the village.

For commuters, the A81 and A879 roads are the only real means of initial transport out of the village or to Glasgow taking about 25 minutes by car if traffic is moving steadily. The nearest train station is in Milngavie to the south. Many commuters do drive into Milngavie to take the train into Glasgow.

In terms of amenities, Blanefield has a few including a gallery, chemist, deli, pub, and hotel, to name a few. However, residents must travel to Milngavie and Bearsden for a wider choice including the closest supermarkets for groceries. Residents do benefit greatly from being so close to Loch Lomond and the Trossachs however, and all the fantastic outdoor and nature opportunities it presents. Similarly for outdoor purposes Mugdock Country Park is a short drive away to the south with great trails as well as a café to enjoy. The Glengoyne Whisky Distillery is a short distance away to the north too, which is a particular draw for tourists and locals alike.

There is no school in Blanefield itself, but Strathblane Primary School is a short distance away and serves as the local primary school for both areas. Balfron High School is the local secondary school.