Strathclyde Country Park is an ideal start point for exploring the surrounding area by bike. Try out the new cycle path to Chatelherault, a destination both stunning and steeped in history. This is a very achievable distance on a well surfaced cycle track, so persuade the family to come along for the ride.
• Map: OS Explorer 343
• Start/finish point: Strathclyde Park watersports centre
• Transport: Train: Motherwell; Airbles (en route); Hamilton West
• Cycle Hire: Mountain bike hire: Watersports centre - 01698 402060
• Distance: 2.75miles
• Time: 30 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy
• Terrain: A good surfaced cycle path suitable for all the family. One moderate to steep incline.
• Refreshments: Strathclyde park watersports centre 01698 402060. Chatelherault visitor centre - 01698 426213
Route:
Leave the watersports centre car park at the river Clyde side and turn right in the direction of Mausoleum and golf course. After 200 yards cross river Clyde on footbridge and on the far side turn left - signed National Cycle Network 74, Chatelherault 2 ¼, Larkhall 5.
Follow path through trees to road-bridge. Go under bridge and resume path which now follows the river Avon. At Avon Bridge Nursing Home turn left over Old Avon bridge. Go off to the left uphill and follow path between sandstone gateposts on the right. Continue up a moderate hill to Chatelherault hunting lodge.
Visitor centre entrance is to the rear of the building. Find out more about your surroundings here - or simply enjoy a refreshment in the cafe. Return to Strathclyde park by the same route.
Points of interest
• Chatelherault - a grand hunting lodge, built in 1732 for the Duke of Hamilton, is centrepiece of this 500-acre woodland country park.
• White Cattle - with their fearsome horns this rare breed may be a descendent of ancient wild cattle.
• Strathclyde Country Park watersports centre - a world-class sporting venue with a choice of exciting activities to combine with a cycle ride - why not try sailing at Sail Laser, enjoy a thrilling speed boat ride or have fun on our Bumper Boats?