2015 6 &7 Kilsyth

Cumbernauld 10 14 Chryston Airdrie Stepps 15 13 M8 Harthill

Cambuslang Bellshill Shotts Bothwell 1&2 Blantyre 9 Newmains 12 3 Motherwell Hamilton East Kilbride Carluke Larkhall

Carnwath 4 &5 Carmichael Lanark New Lanark World 16,17,18 Heritage site Biggar M74 8 Tinto Hill Nutberry Lesmahagow Hill “Looking for bright Dungavel Fell ideas for short breaks Douglas and great days out in Culter Fell Lanarkshire? It really Crawfordjohn will take you a month Abington 11 of Sundays if you want Crawford to try everything” There’s so much to see and do in Lanarkshire. make M74 Leadhills the most of the great outdoors at one of the area’s fine Green country country parks and estates, or discover its rich Lowther and fascinating history at the many museums and heritage attractions, including the Unesco World heritage Sites at N New Lanark and the Antonine Wall near Kilsyth. With so Ballencleuch much fun on your doorstep, what are you waiting for? Law W E S Visit Lanarkshire Perfectly placed, perfectly paced If you love cycling, you’ll love cycling legacy planning and a great day out. see the spectacular action close up. in Lanarkshire. In this selection of Or you could try BMX riding at the But there’s much more to cycling in bike routes for 2015 you’ll discover international-standard Broadwood Lanarkshire. And you don’t need to that cycling in Lanarkshire is definitely Stadium complex in . travel for miles to reach routes that going places. Again it’s open to all ages and suit as Lanarkshire is right on your A phenomenally successful abilities. doorstep – and much of it still feels Commonwealth Games has further If you’re a fan of Tour de France- undiscovered. boosted participation and many style road racing then you’re in for All sorts of cyclists can find all more people are taking advantage a treat when the Pearl Izumi Tour sorts of options, all grades of dif- of the top-class facilities available in Series comes to Motherwell on ficulty and endurance, and a real . Tuesday 26 May. choice of distance. The myriad cycle routes are well Britain’s top professional cycle Ride through a variety of land- established and popular but there teams will race around a 1.7km scapes peppered with history and are a growing number of specialist street circuit in the only stage of the well-served with restaurants, pubs centres catering for those seeking event to be held in . and tearooms where you can rest extra thrills. The Matrix Fitness Women’s your legs, refuel and relax after a day Cathkin Braes is a prime example. Grand Prix Series race will also take well spent. This world-class 5.5km mountain place over the same course. Whatever your prowess or fit- biking circuit was a venue for the Starting and finishing on Hamil- ness, there is a route for you to enjoy Games but is suitable for all abilities ton Road, the circuit takes in High in Lanarkshire. with mixed terrain. Road, Farm Street, Ladywell Road If you love cycling, you’ll love And it’s free to use – an and Douglas Street offering great this 2015 edition of Cycling in enduring example of the Games opportunities for local people to Lanarkshire. Cycle 1&2 Peaceful urban havens for cyclists and wildlife

Map: OS Explorer 343 Start/finish point: Strathclyde Park watersports centre Transport: Train: Motherwell; Airbles (en route); Hamilton West Refreshment: Waterfront Cafe, watersports centre – 01698 402060. M&Ds, www. scotlandsthemepark.com Cycle Hire: Mountain bike hire, Watersports centre - 01698 402060 Distance: 8.5miles Time: 1-2 hours Difficulty: easy/ moderate Terrain: Cycle paths, park roads and quiet roads

Strathclyde Park is a superb hub from which to explore the surrounding area by bike. The first route around the ornamental gardens of finds a quiet way 2 M&D’s Leisure Park this extensive estate. through Motherwell to Scotland’s only theme park link Strathclyde Park and Amazonia’s indoor tropical 5 White Walk with Duchess Park, rainforest are yet more exciting The old graveyard is at the foot of Dalzell Estate and the reasons to visit. the equally spooky White Walk. RSPB Baron’s Haugh Peer into the Hamilton family nature reserve. 3 Roman bath house mausoleum and look out for the and bridge The bridge is pet cemetery. a copy but enough of the 2nd- century bath house remains to be 6 Baron’s Haugh Points of interest able to trace your way from the RSPB Baron’s Haugh nature 1 Watersports centre cold room to the hot room. reserve is a flooded marshland A world-class sporting venue with in a bend in the . The lots of exciting events to combine 4 Dalzell Estate reserve attracts wintering wildfowl with a cycle ride – why not try Dalzell offers a lot more cycle including widgeon and whopper sailing or enjoy a thrilling speed exploration on the paths that swans. Look out for the hides on boat ride? wander up to Dalzell house and your right. Strathclyde Park

N W E S P M74 Motherwell Strathclyde Loch

Start/end

Hamilton

M74 River Clyde

downhill on tarmac path. After a to Chestnut Walk and follow to short distance join gravel path to River Clyde. Turn right to take the right. up Clyde Walkway and stick Emerge at Hamilton Road and with river until directed to right go to the left to cross at lights through residential area. Go to beyond garage. Take first right the left and continue to end of into Malcolm Street and follow cul-de-sac. Rejoin path by Clyde round to the left on to Crawford (steps) and continue to Clyde Street. Where Nigel Street meets bridge. Crawford Street go to the right Go under bridge to enter into Duchess of Hamilton park park and follow Clyde back to and follow path on right-hand watersports centre. edge of park. Emerge where Avon Street meets Airbles Road Distance: 3.75miles Cycle 1 route opposite the Electric Bar. Cross Time: Less than an hour Avon Street and continue to pedestrian crossing. Cross Airbles Difficulty: Easy Dalzell Estate & Road and then go round first right Terrain: A traffic-free Baron’s Haugh on to Leven Street. Take second path that follows the Head off round the Strathclyde right on Leven Street to take up edge of the loch. loch in a clockwise direction. North Lodge Avenue. Continue At the far end of the loch go off to end of avenue to turn right to the left and continue to gate. downhill at garages – signed for Cycle 2 route Turn right to join road and RSPB nature reserve and Clyde continue to T-junction. Walkway. Strathclyde Loch Turn right to join main park Go round to the left and road and follow for 1½ miles. At descend on the White Walk to Head off in a clockwise direction the crest off the second hill go the very bottom of the hill. Take from the Watersports Centre to between the rocks to leave the care as hill is steep in places. make best use of the wind. road on the left. Follow the gravel Follow path to the left around M&D’s theme park and Amazonia path to the end of Neilsland the cemetery and cross stream are excellent reasons to stop Drive. Go to the left and go on narrow bridge. Turn right on about halfway round. Cycle 3 Peaceful urban havens for cyclists and wildlife

The route area Distance: 2.75miles Points of interest Strathclyde Loch Time: 30 minutes and the new Di culty: Easy cycle path to Terrain: A good surfaced 1 White Cattle White cattle - with their Chatelherault are cycle path suitable fearsome horns this rare great for wobbly for all the family. One breed may be a descendent of cyclists young and old moderate to steep ancient wild cattle. . . . you’ll have incline. no trouble persuading Refreshment: Strathclyde 2 Chatelherault the kids and their park watersports Chatelherault hunting lodge, centre 01698.402060; built in 1732 for the duke of grandparents to Chatelherault visitor Hamilton, is the centrepiece come along for centre –01698 426213. of this 500-acre woodland the ride country park. Strathclyde Park & Chatelherault

Follow path through trees to Cycle 3 route road-bridge. Go under bridge and resume path which now follows Chatelherault the river Avon. At Avon Bridge Nursing Home Leave the watersports centre turn left over Old Avon bridge. car park at the river Clyde Go o to the left uphill and side and turn right in the follow path between sandstone direction of Mausoleum and golf gateposts on the right. course. Continue uphill (moderately) After 200 yards cross river to Chatelherault hunting lodge. Clyde on footbridge and on the Visitor centre entrance is to the far side turn left – signed National rear of the building. Cycle Network 74, Chatelherault Return to Strathclyde park by 2 ¼, Larkhall 5. the same route. Cycle 4&5 Take on some of the Tour of Britain route

N W E Strathaven S

B743 Whitelaw ater A71 n W vo Whitelees A Start/end Wind Farm Cauldermill Mossmulloch

Battle of Drumclog

B743

Drumclog ater W A71 e v a Hawkwood Hill

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Once something of a regular feature on the 2 is a route of the Tour of Brit- volcanic plug just inside the ain cycle race, Strathaven Ayrshire border. The site of a offers excellent cycling famous victory by Robert the on the gently undulating Bruce over the English in 1307, it roads around this vibrant is also an excellent viewpoint. market town. Turn right and then turn left into Mountain biking is also 3 Battle of Todshill Street. receiving a boost in the Drumclog took place in Turn left at the next junction area with the opening of 1679 when “Bloody and then take the first right into more than 50 miles of ClaverHouse/Bonnie Dundee” Newtown Road. At fork in road patrolling with his dragoons take the right fork and follow road tracks at the Whitelee encountered a group of out T-junction with B743. Turn Wind Farm, a short Covenanters. It was a victory left and cross bridge over river distance to the north for the Covenanters and he only Avon. Beyond the bridge take the of the town. just managed to escape with his first right. life having been knocked from Following the road we keep Points of interest his horse. A short detour from right. However, at Westlinbank the route is necessary to visit the Farm ignore right for Kilmarnock 1 Strathaven Castle memorial. and continue straight on. (ruin)– One of the many Continue downhill to T-junction lords of Strathaven Castle 4 and go in the direction of punished his wife by having her Cycle route Kilmarnock, B745. bricked up alive inside a purpose- Leave the Common Green by After short distance come to built niche. Recently human Bridge Street (Tudor Coffee crossroads. Turn right and follow remains were found when part of House). Follow Bridge Street to road into Drumclog. At A71 the castle walls collapsed. roundabout at Strathaven Castle. Drumclog Memorial Kirk, cross Strathaven & Whitelees

Map: OS Landranger 71 Transport: Train: Hairmyres 11 miles – signed cycle route to Strathaven Refreshment: Strathaven is well served by tearooms, pubs and restaurants. Distance: 20 miles. Time: 2-3 hours. Difficulty: Moderate Terrain: Quiet back roads.

return to Common Green. Whitelee Wind Farm Cycle 5 More than 50 miles of tracks linking the 140 wind turbines high on the Eaglesham Moors have been made available for walkers and particularly mountain bikers to enjoy. There is, however, plenty of room for everyone and for those straight over on to Meadowfoot who want to take it more slowly Road. there is a visitor centre, where At Moss Side go to the right. you can learn about the wind After 500 yards turn left (straight farm, plus a café on the Eaglesham on and downhill past Stobieside side and a museum at Lochgoin. for ). Perhaps the best reason At next T-junction turn right for cycling at Whitelee is the and follow long, straight road remarkable view over the central downhill. belt and beyond to the Highlands. Once over stone bridge go to The wind farm is accessed on the right and continue parallel the Lanarkshire side from Ardoch with the Calder Water. At Rig (NS 638 467) where there is crossroads go straight over. a car park. There are a number Follow road for 2½ miles and of signed routes on offer from turn left for Strathaven Airfield. the visitor centre, including the After a short distance at the top Lochgoin route (8 miles). of the hill turn right and follow Download a detailed map and road into Strathaven. find more information at: http:// Follow road downhill through www.whiteleewindfarm.co.uk a residential area. At T-junction Please remember to follow the turn right along Lethame Road to Scottish Outdoor Access Code. Cycle 6&7 Roman roads and historic waterways

Map: OS Explorer 348 18th Century Colzium House, Transport: Train – Croy the surrounding parkland includes (1½ miles) the ruins of the 15th Century Refreshment: Coachman Colzium Castle, the site of the Hotel, Kilsyth 01236 821649. Battle of Kilsyth (1645), a walled Cafe Refresh, Kilsyth, garden and one of the oldest 01236 827652; The curling ponds in the wolrd. Boathouse, Auchinstarry Marina, 01236 829200. 2 Forth and Clyde Distance: 7 miles. Canal – Engineer John Time: 1-2 hours. Smeaton chose a similar route to Di culty: Easy the Antonine Wall for his canal Terrain: Paths, estate roads, linking the North Sea and the short sections of back roads. Firth of Clyde. Work began in 1768 and it was opened in 1790. With miles and miles of Cycle 6 route paths, Kilsyth is a great From Market Square go to the place for gentle cycling left, turn left into Burngreen and away from the tra c. along cobbled road past park and old library. Continue straight on Colzium Estate, the Follow tarmac path downhill and , to road indicated as dead end. Dismount to tackle small sets of over narrow bridge then follow the Dumbreck marshes steps, emerge at Stirling Road. gravel path – Dumbreck marshes and a brush with the Cross Stirling Road on to on your left. Stay with the gravel Antonine Wall mean Tak-ma-doon road. After short path and the Dock Water. Just after that there is enough distance take right on to path Dumbreck marshes take left fork interest to turn a short signposted for Banton, Colzium signed Kilsyth town centre one route into a full day of and Bluebell Wood. Short steep mile. Path becomes rough. Follow exploration. On the climb takes you to level path. Keep stream into Kilsyth past Astroturf playing elds. At St Patrick’s second route out of right along path (though you can climb to Colzium house) until you Primary follow gravel path straight Kilsyth you can tackle ahead. Dismount, go under bridge. the Tak-ma-doon and reach driveway at kids’ playpark. Turn right on to drive and Continue through small shopping the Crow Road that follow to entrance to estate on centre. Follow stream through both straddle the Stirling Road. Turn right and follow Burngreen park and cross park to Campsies. These ‘big’ footpath for 250 yards, then turn war memorial, turn right and right climbs are as celebrated right, carefully crossing main road again to return to Market Square. among local cyclists as to take the road for Dullatur. the col du Galiber and Follow minor road round to the Cycle 7 Tak-ma- col du Tourmalet are on left and then round to the right. doon, Carron valley and the Tour de France. Take left fork for Dullatur on the the Crow Road downhill. Continue to canal and Colzium, go to the right to join towpath. Points of interest Cycle 6 Follow towpath under bridge – At the top Forth & Clyde Canal at Auchinstarry and continue 1 Viewpoint and the Antonine Wall to Twechar. Leave towpath at of the Tak-ma-doon there is an Twechar bridge and loop back on impressive view of the Firth of Points of interest to road and take next left towards Clyde and Arran, and the Firth of Queenzieburn. Continue for 150 Forth and the famous bridges, as 1 Colzium Lennox yards and take up footpath on right well as north to the Highlands and Estate – Centred on the for Dumbreck Marsh and Kilsyth. south across the central valley. Roman roads and historic waterways Kilsyth & Campsie Hills

8 miles to junction with B822. Turn left for Lennoxtown 7 miles – the Crow Road. Sustained climb . Descend into Lennoxtown. Follow Crow Road and then Crosshill Street to junction with Main Street. Turn left on to A891 for Milton of Campsie and Torrance. Continue through Lennoxtown and follow A891 to Milton of Campsie. Enter Milton of Campsie on the downhill. Just after playpark turn right for Kincaid House Hotel and Kirkintilloch, B757 – Birdston Road. Continue through Birdston to Kirkintilloch. At tra c lights at McDonald’s turn left for Kilsyth A803. Continue to Eastside roundabout and go straight through for Kilsyth A803. On leaving Kirkintilloch take Carron Valley forest the right for Antonine Wall and Earl’s B818 Twechar B8023. Road eventually Carron M80 Seat Valley Res M876 runs parallel with the Forth and C A M P S I E F E B822 Tak me Doon Route 7: Clyde Canal. Continue straight L L S Start/end Crowd Road on at Twechar and continue to car park Colzium Lennox Estate T-junction opposite Auchinstarry. A891Lennoxtown Kilsyth Canal Clyde Turn left on to B802 for th & For Kilsyth ¾mile. Stay on undulating road into Kilsyth, go straight N Cumbernauld through roundabouts . Continue W E Kirkintilloch Conservation area Route 6: past Lidl and at roundabout with Start/end & Burngreen Park S A803 go to the right for Stirling. Continue past Coachman Hotel, Refreshment: turn left into Burngreen. then turn right for Burngreen park Carronbridge Hotel Continue past Burngreen Park on Station Road to return to Distance: 30 miles. and go round to the left at the end start. Alternative route from Time: 3-4 hours. of Duntreath Terrace on to Station Road, continue to Kirkintilloch: at tra c lights at Di culty: Hard junction with Stirling Road. Go McDonald’s go straight ahead Terrain: Hilly. Quiet right and follow Stirling Road for for 100 yards to T-junction, back roads. a short distance to left turn for turn right to Hillhead roundabout Carronbridge and Tak-ma-doon and take second exit up the hill road. Follow Tak-ma-doon uphill on Hillhead Road. At Forth and 2 Carron Valley – sustained climb – to viewpoint. Clyde canal turn left on to towpath forest – Six miles of purpose- Descend on far side across ford to and follow through Twechar to built mountain bike trails, including Carronbridge Hotel. Turn left at Auchinstarry. Rejoin the B8023 trails graded orange and red junction for Fintry B818 (old rusty before Auchinstarry bridge and at . signpost). Follow B818 through the T-junction turn left on to B802 for Cycle 7 route Carron Valley (Carron Valley Trails Kilsyth. Follow above directions Leave Market Square to the left and 1½ miles on left) for approximately through Kilsyth and back to start. Cycle 8 Country lanes and forgotten corners

It would take many days to explore all the cycling possibilities offered by the miles and miles of country lanes spreading out from Biggar. The first route follows these lanes through peaceful hamlets into forgotten corners of the Pentland Hills where Covenanters hid out in the 17th century, while the second route heads east into the Borders to the village of Broughton, where it is claimed the magician Merlin was laid to rest. Biggar &Pentland Hills Points of interest 1 Moat Park Heritage Centre is one of five museums It was set at such a height as to B7016. Go uphill out of Biggar in Biggar. It explains the local Iron make it uncomfortable to sit or and continue for less than one Age and Roman histories. Other stand, as well as to humiliate. mile. Take the right on the bend museums include the Gladstone to leave the B7016. Follow the Court, the Gasworks and the 4 Little Sparta is the quiet road to crossroads with Greenhill Covenanters’ House. exotically named poetry garden of A721 and go straight over. Follow the late artist Ian Hamilton Finlay. road for 3 miles and take left 2 St Mary’s Church signed for Dunsyre (1 mile). dates from 1545 and was the last 5 Newbigging Mercat Continue on road through collegiate church in Scotland built cross – topped with a stone woodland and into Dunsyre. before the Reformation. sun, it is a peculiarly pagan object Go uphill and round to the left dated 1693. in Dunsyre and follow road for 3 Dunsyre Kirk – look 3½ miles to Newbigging. out for the iron jougs set into the Cycle 8 route At T-junction with A721 church wall. Offenders would be From the Corn Exchange on (Nestlers’ Hotel) turn left and go sentenced to wear the iron collar High Street go left downhill and downhill. At the foot of the hill – around their neck. then go right for Carnwath, and on the bend – turn right. Biggar and the Pentland Hills

N W E S Newbigging Carnwath

A721

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Follow quiet road fairly steeply Thankerton uphill. From the top of the hill Biggar a fast downhill takes you to a T-junction with the B7016. Turn Start/end left and then after a short distance turn right for Thankerton and Quothquan. Follow road into Map: OS Landranger 72 Newbigging – 01555 and through Quothquan. At red Start/ nish: Corn 840680. telephone box take the left fork Exchange, High Street Distance: 24 miles. and continue to junction. Transport: Train – Lanark Time: 2-4 hours. Turn left and continue through Cormiston. At foot of (18 miles) Diculty: Moderate steep downhill turn left on to Refreshment: Biggar is Terrain: Quiet back roads; Lindsaylands Road and follow well served by tearooms, surface rough in places; into Biggar. At T-junction at the pubs and restaurants; route includes a short Cadgers Brig turn left to return Nestlers’ Hotel, section on the A721. to start. Cycle 9 Cathkin Braes

Everyone is welcome The hairiest bit came as we hit to test their mettle on the aptly named “Double Dare”. If the world class Cathkin that name doesn’t tempt you to take Braes cross country on the challenge, I don’t know what course which is set to would. become a mecca for All the features on the trail were named by local primary school cyclists for many years children who seemed to have to come. captured the feeling of each part of MATTY SUTTON got the route, from a rocky section called on her bike to “broken biscuits” to the section I try it out. faced next. But before I went anywhere on You can almost hear the crowd the steep downhill section I had to cheering on the hill top . . . or is that take a few moments to admire the the nerves ringing in my ears? This view. From the top of the hill – was my first time on a mountain around a third of the way round bike and facing a 5.5km route ahead the second loop of the figure of of me which was used for the eight-shaped route – you can see the Commonwealth Games, I wondered whole city, a sprawling metropolis if it was going to be a baptism of it looks like I’m balancing on a cliff nestled between the surrounding fire. I’m used to cycling on the roads, edge, and, even though the ground hills. whizzing along the tarmac at 30 miles is only a couple of feet below, in the For the professionals this is a fast an hour, but already I sensed this was end I bottled it, deciding to save that plunge over rocks and gravel. For me a different kettle of fish. challenge for next time. it’s a slow stumble, hands locked on Just a few metres from the We went further down the the brakes, eyes concentrating on car park pedalling over rocks track and under a short tunnel every bump and groove in the and undulating gravel paths, my before I nearly went flying over the trail below. adrenaline was pumping. handlebars at a sharp bend. But, before long I’m at the bottom It’s hard to believe you are just a This is the ‘red’ route. Graded the and it’s uphill through woodland and few miles from Scotland’s largest city. same as ski courses, red is a difficult open grassland before looping back Up there the air is fresh and fellow trail with rocking features. to the start. Including stoppages cyclists buzz about laughing and But, thankfully, most of the really for training tips, the entire loop chatting as they challenge themselves scary sections can be avoided on took us around an hour and a half on the ascents and descents. the more family friendly ‘blue’ and to complete. The top athletes Under the watchful eye of ‘green’ routes, and, for the dare will hammer round it in about 13 Scottish Cycling’s development devils, there are difficult ‘black’ rated minutes. I was mentally and physically officer for events Bob MacFarlane, routes. done in after one lap. my coach for the day, I approached The whole experience was both the first steep downhill section terrifying and exhilarating. I will brimming with confidence. definitely be up there again and I Ahead of me – on the easiest would recommend it route – are two rock ledges. I stop to anyone who likes a dead. From where I am, challenge. The trails are open to the public. Cathkin Braes Broadwood BMX track, Cumbernauld Cycle 10

Broadwood Stadium’s international standard BMX track is perfectly set up for elite riders and beginners alike, discovers Susan Swarbrick

IN the shadows of Broadwood the British BMX Series coming to cycling because it seemed more Stadium in Cumbernauld, the night is Cumbernauld from May 23-24 and exciting,” said Austin. a buzzing hive of activity. Out on the the Scottish BMX Championships “I want BMX to be my job and national BMX track, a group of riders from September 12-13. I would love to go to the Olympics are being put through their paces. But this is more than simply a one day.” They soar through the air, flying round venue for elite level riders. The Graeme Atkinson, general the course with such impressive ease floodlit track is open to the public manager at Broadwood NL, said: it’s as if fairy dust had been sprinkled seven days a week. A 90-minute “The BMX track is located within an on their wheels. session costs £3 for children and hour’s drive of 95% of the Scottish Scotland has a rich history in BMX £4.50 for adults. Equipment hire is population so in terms of hosting racing. It is the sport where six-time £5, although for families that cost is events or people popping along to Olympic champion Sir Chris Hoy cut capped at £10. Beginner induction give it a try, it is easily accessible.” his teeth before making the move to courses are available. His sons Adam, nine, and Paul, track cycling. Already the first shoots of 12, are keen cyclists and Graeme Costing £420,000, the Broadwood grassroots development are in speaks with pride about seeing them track was opened to the public evidence. Cumbernauld Centurions blossom. in June 2014. It was funded by BMX Club has seen membership The track has been particularly North Lanarkshire Council, the numbers double since the track good for Paul who is profoundly deaf. Commonwealth Games Legacy 2014 opened. In addition the NLL HARO The youngster has cochlear implants Active Places Fund, sportscotland, BMX race team, aimed at up-and- and has found that on a BMX track he WREN and Cumbernauld coming riders, was founded in early doesn’t feel as self-conscious among Centurions BMX Club. 2015 to further nurture new talent. his peers. Paul now trains three times It is Scotland’s only international Among the regulars are a week at the facility. standard BMX track. The facility Fergus Whitehouse, nine, and “We always cycled as a family is managed by North Lanarkshire Austin Goldberg, 11, both from but when the BMX track opened Leisure and was designed and built Cumbernauld. They have been doing Paul went to a summer camp and by Clark & Kent Contractors, the BMX for three years. joined the club soon afterwards,” says company behind the design for the “This track is much better than Graeme. “He saves up all of his own London 2012 track. our old one, it’s bigger and a lot more money to buy new kit and things for Broadwood can host racing up technical,” said Fergus. “I can learn his bike. to and including Pro Circuit and new skills and put myself to the test.” “The last time I raced Paul he beat Youth Olympic level. It is already set It is already capturing the me four times in a row and they did to welcome a clutch of top events imagination of future stars. “I chose commentary over the PA system. I in 2015 with rounds five and six of BMX rather than another type of still haven’t lived that down.” Cycle 11 The riches of God’s Own Treasure House

Once described as God’s Own Treasure House, the Lowther Hills have been mined for gold and lead since Roman times. The mines are closed but lots of reminders remain. Leadhills, Scotland’s second highest village, reeks of its mining past. Piles of spoil, old railway tracks and miners’ cottages do not take away from the beauty of the Lowther Hills but rather add plenty of interest for the passing cyclist. Wild, green, otherwordly and with several high passes to cross, the Lowther Hills are perfect for cyclists looking for a challenge. However, there also are plenty of opportunities by the youthful River Clyde to enjoy the scenery but with much less effort.

on Carlisle Road turn left Crawford & (north). Follow road uphill to Abington Crawford’s mercat cross on small grassy traffic island. Turn Points of interest right signed for Camps Reservoir and Lindsay Tower. 1 Lindsay Tower Once over the Clyde take first (Crawford Castle) is now a left uphill. ruin but in the 16th century the Continue for a couple of castle hosted a dinner between miles then turn left at Mountview King James V and the French Caravan park and continue uphill ambassador. The king, who was to Abington. about to be married to At Royal Bank of Scotland in Magdalene of France, presented Abington turn left. his guests with cups full of gold Follow A702 and take up cycle pieces. lane. Continue to roundabout at Crawford where you take the first left and descend into Crawford Cycle 11 route on Carlisle Road to return From car park (public toilets) to start.

Map: OS Landranger General Store 72 Start/finish: Car – 01864 502374 park (public toilets), Distance: 6 miles. Carlisle Road, Crawford. Time: 1-2 hours. Transport: Difficulty: Easy Train; Lanark (18 miles) Terrain: Cycle lane by Refreshment: A702 and quiet back roads Abington Hotel – 01864 where the surface is rough 502467; Abington in places. Lowther Hills

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W E A74(M) S Ra Tewsgill Hill ggengill B urn Abington Raggengill Hill Lindsay Tower, Castle Hill Crawford Castle (ruin)

A702 Crawford R iv e r

C A74(M) l P y d e Ravengill Dod Mid Hill

Harryburn Brae Start/end CycleCycle 123 NewNew routeroute connectingconnecting first-classfirst-class visitorvisitor attractionsattractions Larkhall to Blantyre (David Livingstone Centre)

Cyclists cancan cyclenow separatelycycle separately from the trafficfrom the between traffic Larkhallbetween and Larkhall Chatelheraultand Chatelherault Country Park.Park. Another sectionrecently alongopened Bothwell section Road along in HamiltonBothwell Roadextends in the NCNHamilton 74 to extends Blantyre the andNCN it is74 only to Blantyre in Blantyre whereand it isit onlyis necessary in to shareBlantyre the whereroad with it is the trafficnecessary and thento share only for shortthe road distances. with the trafficConvenient and then and only efficientfor short though distances. the cycleConvenient routes are, and you shouldefficient not forgetthough to the stopnew offcycle and routes visit are, Chatelherault,you should not forget Hamiltonto stop off Mausoleum and visit andChatelherault the David and LivingstoneHamilton Mausoleum. Centre Also make sure you visit the David Livingstone Centre in this the 200th anniversary year of his birth. 3 Bothwell Bridge – In 1679, 6000 Covenanters and The route Points of interest 5000 government troops met From Larkhall station go up the here in battle. The Covenanters, ramp and continue to the left 1 Chatelherault poorly equipped and untrained, along Caledonian Road past the hunting lodge was built in were quickly defeated. More than Coalyard café to the T-junction 1732 for the . 600 died and 1200 were taken with Raploch Street. Turn right, It is the centrepiece of the prisoner. continue to traffic lights and turn 500-acre woodland country park. left. Follow Hamilton Road for a 4 David Livingstone short distance to a play park on 2 Hamilton Centre –marks the birthplace left where you can join the shared Mausoleum – A massive of the renowned missionary. The pedestrian/cycle path. sandstone-domed mausoleum museum recalls his upbringing Follow the cycle path (NCN built in 1842 as the burial place and time in Africa. This year is the 74) downhill out of Larkhall. In of the Dukes of Hamilton. It is all 200th anniversary Ferniegair the path narrows and it that remains of the grand palace of his birth and many special is necessary to cross and cycle for complex that once stood nearby. events have been planned. a short distance before crossing It is renowned for its echo. www.davidlivingstone200.org again to enter Chatelherault Cycle 3 New route connecting first-class visitor attractions Larkhall to Blantyre (David Livingstone Centre)

Country Park. Join the avenue and Bellshill follow uphill towards the hunting Start lodge (now a visitor centre). A726 When the avenue turns steeply uphill, go off to the right through Blantyre Motherwell a gate to rejoin the cycle path High signed for Hamilton, Motherwell Blantyre and Strathclyde Park. Turn Hamilton immediately to the right. Follow tarred cycle path steeply M74 downhill through sets of staggered gates to a set of white gates. Continue through the gates N and turn left downhill to W E cross the old cobbled bridge of S End Larkhall Avon. Turn right, rejoin the cycle AA72 path and follow the River Avon downstream. gardens by the Clyde, where go under the expressway. Go under the M74 and then the path narrows and climbs At the next roundabout under the Clyde Bridge, which moderately steeply. continue straight on. The shared can be very muddy, and follow At the junction with the path resumes on the left and the cycle path though pines to the motorway, turn right and follow right-hand sides of the road. junction with a path from the cycle path across the entrance Join the one on the right. At the the Strathclyde Park to Ireland Alloys. At the Scottish next roundabout turn right down watersports centre. Water offices cyclists are required Devlin Grove and join John Street. Turn left and enter the to rejoin the motorway. At David Dale House, turn tunnel under the M74, then Follow the road around to left and continue past the skate follow the cycle path straight the left, signed for the David park. Follow the path to right ahead past the Hamilton Livingstone Centre. At the T- and after a short distance turn Mausoleum. junction with Whistleberry Road left. Continue through a barrier Join the quiet park road and turn right. Continue up and over to Station Road and turn right continue straight on towards a the railway bridge and down to downhill. Blantyre station will be very steep hill (with no through roundabout, where you should on your right. Continue downhill traffic). take the third exit for Blantyre and for David Livingstone Centre. Climb Mote Hill. At the top, join the cycle path on the right, staying on the right-hand side Map:Map: OS OS Explorer Landranger 343 343 Distance: 9½ 9 1/2 miles. miles. of Bothwell Road. At an ornate Start:Start: Larkhall Larkhall station station./ Time:Time: 2-4 2-4hours. hours. white wall at Hamilton College, Finish:Finish: David David Livingstone Difficulty:Difficulty: Larkhall cross to the left-hand side of MemorialLivingston (Blantyre Memorial Larkhallto Strathclyde to Strathclyde Park – Bothwell Road. station).(Blantyre station) Parkeasy. - SP easy. to BothwellSP to Bothwell Continue along past the park Transport:Transport: as asstart start & andfinish. BridgeBridge -– hard. hard. Bothwell and downhill past Strathclyde Fire Refreshment:finish BridgeBothwell to BlantyreBridge to - Service HQ. Once over the East Chatelherault visitor Blantyre – moderate. Kilbride expressway but before Refreshment: moderate centre;Chatelherault Waterfront visitor café, Terrain:Terrain: excellent excellent traffic- you cross the Clyde, turn left on Watersports Centre, traffic-free cycle paths, to a path (the Battle of Bothwell centre, Waterfront cafe, free cycle paths, quiet Bridge monument will be on the StrathclydeWatersports Park; centre, residentialquiet residential roads -roads short far side of Clyde on the other side DavidStrathclyde Livingstone Park. Centre. section– short insection Blantyre in on of road). 840680.David Livingstone centre mainBlantyre road. on main road. Follow the path past the Lido CycleCycle 2132 AElementary-levelA hiddenhidden routeroute through throughcanal and CentralCentral heritage ScotlandScotland trail Uddingston,Uddingston, Bargeddie,Bargeddie, DrumpellierDrumpellier && CoatbridgeCoatbridge

N Map: OS Explorer 342 Woodend Loch W E

M73 & 343. S Start: Uddingston Railway Station or Lochend Loch Bargeddie Railway Station Drumpellier Start/end Country Park (no Sunday service). Finish: Summerlee, Scotland’s Museum Coatbridge of Industrial Life. (Coatbridge Central or A752 A89 Sunnyside Stations) A89 Transport: as start and finish. the railway line. After a short distance Refreshment: the right and then over a road. Return to Aitkenhead Road and continue turn right over a railway bridge and Uddingston is well under the M8/A8 – signed continue to the entrance of served by cafes; 2. Drumpellier Country Park. Lift your Drumpellier Country Remain on the footpath, and use it bike over a specially lowered fence Park visitor centre and to negotiate a roundabout at the and turn left to follow a gravel path Summerlee museum also Monkland Canal and Bargeddie 3, Coatbridge 6. entrance to the leisure park and travel downhill through woodland, then to

to explore the tracks 3Bank Street basin At the end of the cycle path, you’ll in the direction of the A752, the right. Stay on the red ash path, have cafes. – Bold art installations bring alive through Drumpellier enter a residential cul-de-sac. Gartcosh and Muirhead. After a short keeping left, until it joins an access Distance: 10.5miles. memories of the area’s iron, coal Time: 2-3 hours. Country Park and Continue straight on to mini- distance, enter Bargeddie and follow road. Turn left and continue through and steel industries. Look out for a gate at nursery woodland. Continue Difficulty: moderate around Lochend Loch. roundabout and turn left. Follow the road to Bargeddie railway station the stick of gelignite and Bleezin NCN 75 (not NCN 74). (an alternative starting point). to Lochend Loch and go around the (one short, hard climb). The peace is – an excerpt from a poem, recalling Follow the cycle route through an Continue past the Langmuir Inn – loch in a clockwise direction to return Terrain: traffic-free cycle shattered, however, the sight of tens of blazing factory underpass and continue to the traffic using the footpath/cycle path. to nursery woodland (there’s a visitor paths, residential roads, when you reach your chimneys, by Janet Hamilton. lights at New Road. Go At the roundabout at Bargeddie centre halfway round). canal towpaths and final destination – Also look out for the giant Lees’ straight over and climb a moderate Community Centre, turn right and Leave the loch by the Country gravel paths. snowballs and the Beat the Goalie slope up Spindlehowe Road to the continue to a pedestrian crossing and Park access road and follow uphill, Summerlee, ‘Scotland’s street art installations. noisiest museum’ … junction with Old Edinburgh Road across the dual carriageway. then downhill past a school and and turn left. Travel a short distance to the left playing fields. Go under the railway This route follows much 4 Summerlee Museum At Tannochside Old Club turn and then turn right down a lane. At line and continue to the junction with of the Lanarkshire – Based around the site of the right on to Armstrong Crescent. the end of the lane, turn right along Blair Road. Turn right and descend Points of interest Summerlee ironworks, this vividly Opposite No 35 Armstrong Way Maple Grove, with good views of over Blair Bridge. Go through a leg of the to recreates Lanarkshire’s industrial Edinburgh national take the short cycle path off to the Tinto Hill. gateway on the right signed for 1 Canal past. There are tram rides, tours right. At the end of the path turn left At the next junction turn right into Monkland Canal NCN 75. cycling network route – Designed by James Watt in 1770, of the recreated mine and working and follow NCN 75 along Vallantine Cherryridge Drive, and follow to a Turn right and go under the Blair (NCN 75). the 13-mile-long canal was built machinery. Hundreds of exhibits Crescent. Continue to the junction roundabout. Turn right and then Bridge and up a tarred path that Avoiding busy roads it to take coal from Coatbridge and tell the story of the area (free entry; with Guthrie Drive – second immediately go off to the left to join a follows the route of the filled-in canal carves a route through Airdrie to Glasgow. Look out for open daily). 01236 638460. www. on your left – and follow to a red gravel path signed for across West End park and then under Central Scotland the quays and “windings”, where visitlanarkshire.com/summerlee roundabout. Drumpellier 1, Coatbridge 2, Airdrie Merryton Bridge. Follow a broad boats were loaded with coal. to make cycling Join the footpath/cycleway at the 5. Cross a steel bridge and continue tarred path, past the artworks in Bank surprisingly pleasant. The route roundabout on the right as directed. through woods to emerge at the Street Basin. At the giant Lees’ 2 Drumpellier Country Leave Uddingston railway station and Continue over Tannochside Drive Monkland Canal. Turn right and snowballs under railway bridge, turn Not far beyond continue to Main Street. Cross at the and past Tannochside Business Park follow a towpath. Go under the left and go between barrier and Bargeddie station Park – 54 hectares of ancient semi-natural woodland. Stop off at pedestrian crossing to the right and to take the next exit, Aitkenhead Drumpellier Bridge and then uphill to bridge support to join West Canal the route leaves the the visitor centre for a snack. straight over to join the cycle path on Road. Follow the cycle path down the right and cross over the bridge. At Street. Take the first left, Heritage roads behind to follow Tel: 01236 422257 www. opposite side running parallel to the then uphill towards Showcase a T-junction of paths, turn left to Way, and follow to the Summerlee the towpath by the northlanarkshire.gov.uk railway track – signed as NCN 75, Leisure Park. Follow the cycle path to follow a gravel path running parallel to Museum. CycleCycle 22 AA hiddenhidden routeroute throughthrough CentralCentral ScotlandScotland Uddingston,Uddingston,Summerlee, Bargeddie,Bargeddie, Monkland DrumpellierDrumpellier Canal & &&N Calder CoatbridgeCoatbridge trail

N Map: OS Explorer 342 Woodend Loch W E

M73 & 343. S Start: Uddingston Railway Station or Lochend Loch Bargeddie Railway Station Drumpellier Start/end Country Park (no Sunday service). Finish: Summerlee, Scotland’s Museum Coatbridge of Industrial Life. (Coatbridge Central or A752 A89 Sunnyside Stations) A89 Transport: as start and finish. the railway line. After a short distance Refreshment: the right and then over a road. Return to Aitkenhead Road and continue turn right over a railway bridge and Uddingston is well under the M8/A8 – signed continue to the entrance of served by cafes; Drumpellier Country Park 2. Drumpellier Country Park. Lift your Drumpellier Country Remain on the footpath, and use it bike over a specially lowered fence Park visitor centre and to negotiate a roundabout at the and turn left to follow a gravel path Summerlee museum also Monkland Canal and Bargeddie 3, Coatbridge 6. entrance to the leisure park and travel downhill through woodland, then to to explore the tracks 3Bank Street basin At the end of the cycle path, you’ll in the direction of the A752, the right. Stay on the red ash path, have cafes. – Bold art installations bring alive through Drumpellier enter a residential cul-de-sac. Gartcosh and Muirhead. After a short keeping left, until it joins an access Distance: 10.5miles. memories of the area’s iron, coal Time: 2-3 hours. Country Park and Continue straight on to mini- distance, enter Bargeddie and follow road. Turn left and continue through and steel industries. Look out for a gate at nursery woodland. Continue Difficulty: moderate around Lochend Loch. roundabout and turn left. Follow the road to Bargeddie railway station the stick of gelignite and Bleezin NCN 75 (not NCN 74). (an alternative starting point). to Lochend Loch and go around the (one short, hard climb). The peace is – an excerpt from a poem, recalling Follow the cycle route through an Continue past the Langmuir Inn – loch in a clockwise direction to return Terrain: traffic-free cycle shattered, however, the sight of tens of blazing factory underpass and continue to the traffic using the footpath/cycle path. to nursery woodland (there’s a visitor paths, residential roads, when you reach your chimneys, by Janet Hamilton. lights at New Edinburgh Road. Go At the roundabout at Bargeddie centre halfway round). canal towpaths and final destination – Also look out for the giant Lees’ straight over and climb a moderate Community Centre, turn right and Leave the loch by the Country gravel paths. snowballs and the Beat the Goalie slope up Spindlehowe Road to the continue to a pedestrian crossing and Park access road and follow uphill, Summerlee, ‘Scotland’s street art installations. noisiest museum’ … junction with Old Edinburgh Road across the dual carriageway. then downhill past a school and and turn left. Travel a short distance to the left playing fields. Go under the railway This route follows much 4 Summerlee Museum At Tannochside Old Club turn and then turn right down a lane. At line and continue to the junction with of the Lanarkshire – Based around the site of the right on to Armstrong Crescent. the end of the lane, turn right along Blair Road. Turn right and descend Points of interest Summerlee ironworks, this vividly Opposite No 35 Armstrong Way Maple Grove, with good views of over Blair Bridge. Go through a leg of the Glasgow to recreates Lanarkshire’s industrial Edinburgh national take the short cycle path off to the Tinto Hill. gateway on the right signed for 1 Monklands Canal past. There are tram rides, tours right. At the end of the path turn left At the next junction turn right into Monkland Canal NCN 75. cycling network route – Designed by James Watt in 1770, of the recreated mine and working and follow NCN 75 along Vallantine Cherryridge Drive, and follow to a Turn right and go under the Blair (NCN 75). the 13-mile-long canal was built machinery. Hundreds of exhibits Crescent. Continue to the junction roundabout. Turn right and then Bridge and up a tarred path that Avoiding busy roads it to take coal from Coatbridge and tell the story of the area (free entry; with Guthrie Drive – second immediately go off to the left to join a follows the route of the filled-in canal carves a route through Airdrie to Glasgow. Look out for open daily). 01236 638460. www. on your left – and follow to a red gravel path signed for across West End park and then under Central Scotland the quays and “windings”, where visitlanarkshire.com/summerlee roundabout. Drumpellier 1, Coatbridge 2, Airdrie Merryton Bridge. Follow a broad boats were loaded with coal. to make cycling Join the footpath/cycleway at the 5. Cross a steel bridge and continue tarred path, past the artworks in Bank surprisingly pleasant. The route roundabout on the right as directed. through woods to emerge at the Street Basin. At the giant Lees’ 2 Drumpellier Country Leave Uddingston railway station and Continue over Tannochside Drive Monkland Canal. Turn right and snowballs under railway bridge, turn Not far beyond continue to Main Street. Cross at the and past Tannochside Business Park follow a towpath. Go under the left and go between barrier and Bargeddie station Park – 54 hectares of ancient semi-natural woodland. Stop off at pedestrian crossing to the right and to take the next exit, Aitkenhead Drumpellier Bridge and then uphill to bridge support to join West Canal the route leaves the the visitor centre for a snack. straight over to join the cycle path on Road. Follow the cycle path down the right and cross over the bridge. At Street. Take the first left, Heritage roads behind to follow Tel: 01236 422257 www. opposite side running parallel to the then uphill towards Showcase a T-junction of paths, turn left to Way, and follow to the Summerlee the towpath by the northlanarkshire.gov.uk railway track – signed as NCN 75, Leisure Park. Follow the cycle path to follow a gravel path running parallel to Museum. Cycle 114 Empty moors and forgotten byways to Cumbernauld

Map: OS Explorer 349. Start: Caldercruix railway Points of interest station. Finish: Cumbernauld 1 Hillend Loch – more than railway station. 200 years old, the loch was once Transport: As start the biggest man-made lake in the and finish. world. A popular spot with anglers, Refreshment: it still supplies water to the Forth Cumbernauld town centre & Clyde Canal and the Monklands is well served with cafés, Canal between Coatbridge and pubs, restaurants and a Glasgow. main shopping centre www.visitlanarkshire.com – this is Distance: 15 miles. 2 Mexican Hat a rare and unusual landmark in Time: 2-3 hours. otherwise empty moorland. The Difficulty: Moderate (hard mound resembles a in places). Mexican sombrero and is formed Terrain: Traffic-free cycle of spoil from Lochend Pit No 5, path and then minor back which operated here between roads. This is a route for 1880 and 1948. confident cyclists as roads through Cumbernauld can be busy. 3 Fannyside Muir is an expanse of valuable raised peat bog around the Fannyside Loch – close to the top of the final TheEverything cycle path is new goes about all climb. Up to 12 metres deep and the firstway partto Edinburgh, of this route. laid down over thousands of years, whereasCaldercruix this has route a new the bog is rich in plant and animal leavesstation iton at the the recently end of life. Look out for dragonflies, Hillendreopened Loch Edinburgh-to- for a grouse and snipe. cross-countryAirdrie line and route the excellent new route The route reservoir and the new railway line, over Scotland. A rarely From Caldercruix railway station past Hillend fishing lodge to the replaces one that used to visited area, the roads – making sure you are on the end of loch and then continue over canfollow be the wonderfully line of the newly platform 2 side of the tracks – the road. lonely.reopened An railway interesting track. turn right along Station Road/Main Resume the cycle path and featureThe cycle of path the goesroute all is the Street, a traffic-calmed residential continue east until you come to way to Edinburgh, the expanse of raised street, and continue past the second road. Leave the path at whereas this route leaves Railway Tavern. Forestfield Road and turn left peat bog, doming it at the end of Hillend At the T-junction turn left at uphill. upwardsLoch for a and cross-country clad in Welcome to Caldercruix sign and The road climbs moderately heather.route over Scotland. A then immediately right to take up steeply across open moor and rarely visited area, the the NCN 75 cycle path signed for raised bog, and the very distinctive Bathgate 10. spoil heaps known locally as the roads can be wonderfully The cycle path has an excellent Mexican Hat will be on your right. lonely. An interesting surface. Cross new bridge over At the end of Forrestfield Road feature of the route is the stream and stick with path. Look turn left on to the B825 expanse of raised peat out for sculptures along the way. (Caldercruix Road). Continue bog, doming upwards and Path draws level with Hillend until you reach the junction clad in heather. reservoir. Continue between the with Telegraph Road, signed Empty moors and forgotten byways Cycle 1 Empty moors and forgotten byways Caldercruix to Cumbernauld

N M73 Map: OS Explorer 349. N M73 W E Start: Caldercruix railway Points of interest W E station. S Start S Finish: Cumbernauld 1 Hillend Loch – more than Start railway station. 200 years old, the loch was once Cumbernauld Slamannan Transport: As start the biggest man-made lake in the Cumbernauld Slamannan and nish. world. A popular spot with anglers, Binniehill it still supplies water to the Forth Binniehill Refreshment: B803 Cumbernauld town centre & Clyde Canal and the Monklands B803 is well served with cafés, Canal between Coatbridge and cruix Rd

A73 ruix Rd

pubs, restaurants and a Glasgow. End Calder c A73 End Calder main shopping centre Caldercruix www.visitlanarkshire.com – this is PlainsCaldercruix Distance: 15 miles. 2 Mexican Hat a rare and unusual landmark in Plains A89 Airdrie Road Time: 2-3 hours. A89 drie Road otherwise empty moorland. The Air Di culty: Moderate (hard Airdrie mound resembles a Airdrie in places). Mexican sombrero and is formed Terrain: Trac-free cycle of spoil from Lochend Pit No 5, path and then minor back which operated here between roads. This is a route for 1880 and 1948. con dent cyclists as roads through Cumbernauld can be busy. 3 Fannyside Muir is an expanse of valuable raised peat bog around the Fannyside Loch – close to the top of the nal Everything is new about climb. Up to 12 metres deep and the first part of this route. laid down over thousands of years, Caldercruix has a new the bog is rich in plant and animal station on the recently life. Look out for dragonies, reopened Edinburgh-to- grouse and snipe. Airdrie line and the reservoir and the new railway line, Longriggend and Upperton, (for a Roughrigg farm. The road will exit and continue past the petrol excellent new route The route Roughrigg farm. The road will exit and continue past the petrol From Caldercruix railway station past Hillend shing lodge to the majorLongriggend short cut, and continue Upperton, straight (for a begin to descend and then makes station on right (no footway). replaces one that used to begin to descend and then makes station on right (no footway). – making sure you are on the end of loch and then continue over on,major returning short cut, to Caldercruix continue straight a short rise to a T-junction (B803) At the Carbrain junction a short rise to a T-junction (B803) At the Carbrain junction follow the line of the newly platform 2 side of the tracks – the road. stationon, returning – one mile).to Caldercruix Turn right on – visibility here is limited, so descend and go under a road – visibility here is limited, so descend and go under a road reopened railway track. turn right along Station Road/Main Resume the cycle path and tostation Telegraph – one Road, mile). travelTurn rightuphill on take care. bridge (footway is on the right). take care. bridge (footway is on the right). The cycle path goes all the Street, a trac-calmed residential continue east until you come to untilto Telegraph you eventually Road, cometravel touphill Re-enter North Lanarkshire. Cycle uphill away from bridge. Re-enter North Lanarkshire. Cycle uphill away from bridge. way to Edinburgh, street, and continue past the second road. Leave the path at Longriggend.until you eventually At a ‘give come way’ to sign in Follow the B803 for one mile. Then, beyond Suresafe, turn Follow the B803 for one mile. Then, beyond Suresafe, turn whereas this route leaves Railway Tavern. Forest eld Road and turn left Longriggend,Longriggend. turnAt a left‘give on way’ to Main sign in Turn right at sign for Cumbernauld right on to Kelvin Road North. Turn right at sign for Cumbernauld right on to Kelvin Road North. At the T-junction turn left at uphill. Street.Longriggend, After about turn left half on a mile,to Main – Fannyside Rd. Go almost to the bottom of the it at the end of Hillend – Fannyside Rd. Go almost to the bottom of the Welcome to Caldercruix sign and The road climbs moderately followStreet. around After about to the half right a mile,and Follow the road downhill and hill, past the car-park area. Branch Loch for a cross-country Follow the road downhill and hill, past the car-park area. Branch then immediately right to take up steeply across open moor and overfollow a bridge.around Continueto the right downhill and then climb up to Fannyside Loch right on to the footpath and follow route over Scotland. A then climb up to Fannyside Loch right on to the footpath and follow the NCN 75 cycle path signed for raised bog, and the very distinctive forover a shorta bridge. distance Continue and thendownhill take – a single-track road with passing to bridge over the railway line at rarely visited area, the – a single-track road with passing to bridge over the railway line at Bathgate 10. spoil heaps known locally as the thefor rsta short right distance at the veryand thenedge takeof places. Cumbernauld station. roads can be wonderfully places. Cumbernauld station. The cycle path has an excellent Mexican Hat will be on your right. Longriggend.the rst right at the very edge of The road then descends to a Take the path to the right The road then descends to a Take the path to the right lonely. An interesting surface. Cross new bridge over At the end of Forrest eld Road Longriggend.Follow the road uphill as it T-junction with Forest Road in before the bridge for trains to T-junction with Forest Road in before the bridge for trains to feature of the route is the stream and stick with path. Look turn left on to the B825 bendsFollow away the to road the left.uphill Continue as it Cumbernauld. Turn left in the Gartcosh, Stepps and Glasgow Cumbernauld. Turn left in the Gartcosh, Stepps and Glasgow expanse of raised peat out for sculptures along the way. (Caldercruix Road). Continue uphillbends past away Roughrigg to the left. – bewareContinue direction of Cumbernauld which is (westbound), or go over bridge direction of Cumbernauld which is (westbound), or go over bridge bog, doming upwards and Path draws level with Hillend until you reach the junction asuphill the pastroad Roughrigg narrows in – places.beware a further one mile. and turn down right for trains to a further one mile. and turn down right for trains to clad in heather. reservoir. Continue between the with Telegraph Road, signed Followas the roadaround narrows to the in left places. at At the roundabout take the rst Falkirk (eastbound). Follow around to the left at At the roundabout take the rst Falkirk (eastbound). Cycle 15 2 canal cycle spans Commonwealth Time Trial route

This route both starts and finishes with a canal – the Monkland and the Forth and Clyde. In between there’s a vibrant mix of visitor attractions, sculptures and great countryside. Even more topical, it includes sections of the Commonwealth Games Cycle Time Trial route through North Lanarkshire, hotly contested by the sport’s elite riders on 31 July 2014. Here’s your chance to pedal in the tyre tracks of champions like Sir Bradley Wiggins.

Transport: Train: Lenzie-Kirkintilloch 2.73km Coatbridge; Gartcosh; Total 20km. Kirkintilloch Lenzie Refreshment: to Glasgow, an additional Summerlee Museum Cafe 16.88km. Kirkintilloch to www.visitlanarkshire.com/ Falkirk Wheel, an additional Summerlee 22.19km Distance: Sunnyside- Terrain: Mainly cycle and Gartcosh 6.02km, foot paths with some short Gartcosh-Lenzie 11.25km, road sections and crossings. the Plug (Canal Basin) by means Use SPT railway options not along Sunnyside Rd towards town of a short flight of stairs and a only to access the suggested centre and Summerlee Museum of ramp. Pass Westwards under the starting point (Sunnyside Station, Scottish Industrial Life. rail bridge towards the stick of Coatbridge) but also customise Cross at pedestrian crossing dynamite, pass under road bridge your distance to suit. Shorten the before roundabout and turn right at Blairhill Street, where tow rope route by using Gartcosh or Lenzie into West Canal Street. marks can still be seen on steel Stations; lengthen your cycle While on West Canal Street plates then continue on to West by continuing from Kirkintilloch why not visit Summerlee End Park. Here the Monkland westwards along the Forth and Museum of Scottish Industrial Canal opens up. Up until now you Clyde canal towpath back to Life on Heritage Way - a leading have previously been cycling on Glasgow, or head eastwards to 4-star visitor attraction with free top of the piped canal below the cycle path. the spectacular Falkirk Wheel for admission. This is a fascinating destination for all ages with After passing below the road nearby railway stations at Falkirk interactive displays, exhibitions, a bridge here, immediately to your High or Grahamston. This route is mine to visit and vintage tram rides left you will notice a metal Arch by largely on cycle and footpaths but, to enjoy, it provides a real insight renowned artist Andy Scott. please note, there are some short to Lanarkshire’s industrial heritage. Continue along towpath and road sections and crossings where Spend time or just take a few follow signs for Drumpellier care is required. moments to see what awaits when Country Park, crossing the canal you have more time to explore its by a bridge at Home Farm, bear wonders. left then right over railway bridge, Suggested start: In any case, Summerlee’s pass through kissing gate there Coatbridge cafe and toilets provide a good and continue into Drumpellier Sunnyside SPT Station (via opportunity to stop and make final Park on to the Strathkelvin Glasgow Queen Street Station low preparations for the journey. Railway Path (SRP) which runs level, Helensburgh/Drumgelloch Returning down Heritage Way northwards ( eventually to line). to continue on the route, cross Kirkintilloch). Exit the station and turn left road, turn left then descend into Continue on through the Monklands and Forth &Clyde canal

N Kirkintilloch W E Lenzie M80 S M80

Moodiesburn Bishopbriggs

Glenboig

Start Airdrie M73 Coatbridge

Loch and onwards. This becomes completed M80. The track runs the Strathkelvin Railway Path alongside the Bothlin Burn, cross route. over Burnbrae Rd with care, Turning left onto Drumcavel leaving North Lanarkshire and Rd (this section is part of the entering East Dunbartonshire at Commonwealth Games cycle the edge of Lenzie. Keep left to time trial route) pass under the the Strathkelvin Railway Path (or M73, turn right into Avenuehead alternatively, cross over the Bothlin Country Park to Lochend Loch, Rd and after a short and steep Burn at the footbridge and follow pass the nursery and Peace garden descent the path bears to the left. the path along the water course to your left and follow path along This goes past Bedlay Cemetery below Woodilee Railway Arches. edge of the loch (water on your and onward beneath the A80 This loops briefly off to the right left) up to the Park’s visitor centre Cumbernauld Rd, skirting the but rejoins the Railway path before (with cafe and toilets). Glen west of Moodiesburn and reaching the Canal). Leave the Park, turn left out on to emerge at Gartferry Road. After crossing under the main into footway along Townhead Cross over Gartferry east/west railway line, you could Road for a short distance and, Road with care, again onto choose to shorten your journey with care, cross right and continue the Strathkelvin Railway Path by turning left along Garngaber east footway on Gartcosh Road. Gartferry Road is the second Avenues to catch a train at Lenzie After about 1k, leave the road section of the Commonwealth SPT station back to Glasgow or by bearing right at Chapman’s Cycle Time Trial to feature on east to all stations towards Stirling and follow track leading below this route. and Edinburgh. the railway bridge to and beyond At this crossover point, take a To continue on to Kirkintilloch, Gartcosh SPT station ( from very short diversion to visit the follow the Strathkelvin Railway Gartcosh Station there are regular Auchengeich 1959 mining disaster Path Kirkintilloch town centre and 30 minute services west to memorial (less than quarter of a the Forth and Clyde Canal - your Glasgow Queen Street or east to mile). Turn right onto Gartferry second historical waterway of Cumbernauld and on to Falkirk Rd and just beyond the Bridgend the day. Grahamston). roundabout, at the edge of the For those with energy still left Continue along the SRP to social club car park, you’ll find in their legs, a left turn along the the roundabout and turn left a memorial to Scotland’s worst canal towpath will take you west into Auldyards Rd. After a short mining disaster of the 20th to Glasgow. Or swing right and distance and before the next century. head eastwards to the Falkirk roundabout, cross right out of Back to the disused railway Wheel, a choice of two railway Auldyards Rd continuing on path route, continue north west stations in the town, or continue cycle path to skirt the village of along that track and over the pedalling along the Union Canal , past the Garnqueen new bridge crossing the recently to Edinburgh. Cycle 16/17&18 Lanarkshire’s iron-working past

The cycle from Lanark is first class and shows off Points of interest Lanarkshire at its best. 1 Clydesholm Bridge Demanding in places, is the very narrow bridge at for the most part it Kirkfieldbank. Built in the 17th follows delightful country century. lanes across classic rural landscapes. Look 2 Tinto hill – at 707 metres this is the highest point in the out for the roadside central lowlands. A straightforward memorials that reveal climb to the top (1 ½ hours) from a surprising side to this where the view is excellent. part of Lanarkshire. The on your left and follow to right turn for surprises continue on the 3 Cargill memorial marks Carmichael 2 – take care. Forth route. Few people the spot where Thomas Cargill, a Follow road to right at farm and Covenanter, was arrested in 1689 are aware of Wilsontown continue to crossroads in Carmichael during the Killing Times. – old signpost. and its trail blazing Turn right and continue through iron foundry or 4 Covington is a hamlet of Carmichael. Turn right at foot of hill. the sleepy hamlets thatched cottages, and further on Follow road round to left (dead-end of Haywood and at the farm there is a medieval ahead) and continue to Lochlyvoch Auchengray that occupy keep and dovecot where Robert Farm. Continue through the farm yard this forgotten corner. Burns spent the night, there is a and follow road for 2 miles to A73 at cairn to commemorate his visit. Tinto tearoom. Go straight over A73 for Thankerton. Continue into Thank- Lanark, Cycle 16 route erton and take left signed for Carstairs From Lanark railway station, go and Carnwath – Boat Road. Tinto & towards town centre. Continue Turn left over railway, descend out Covington through traffic lights and descend on of Thankerton. Continue straight on at High St. Follow road through narrow Boat Farm and climb to first Newtown Map: OS Landranger 72 point at church and continue downhill. of Covington and then Covington Start/finish:Lanark Take left for Hamilton A72 – steep Mains Farm. Beyond farm road swings Railway Station downhill. Cross River Clyde and turn to left. Turn right for Pettinain. Follow first left onto Riverside Road and right Transport: Train: Lanark road to T-junction. into Kirkfield Road and climb out of Turn left and descend towards Refreshment: Kirkfieldbank. new homes in Pettinain. Go to the Lanark is well served Take left fork on edge of Kirkfield- right –signed Carstairs Junction 2 ¼ by tearooms, pubs and bank – Byretown Road and continue and climb steeply into Pettinain. At restaurants to climb. At top of climb road follow next T-junction turn left and descend Distance: 25 miles. road round to right and continue to to River Clyde and then continue into Time: 3 – 4 hours T-junction. Carstairs Junction. Difficulty:Moderate/ Turn left and follow road for about At T-junction at church turn left hard Terrain: mostly 1 ½ miles. and continue uphill past Carstairs Junc- back roads but short At junction take left for Sandilands and tion station (trains for Glasgow and descend to bridge over river – tight section of A72 at start and Edinburgh). Turn right over railway and corner. Continue to T-junction at dairy. follow to left to Carstairs village. Keep A70 towards end; road Turn right and follow road round to the green on your right and continue to surface rough in places. left and climb past red telephone box T-junction with Lanark road. Turn left to junction with A70. Join cycle lane and leave village. Lanarkshire’s iron-working past Lanark & Forth

Wilsontown Iron Foundary Wilsontown

B7016

Forth Auchengray

Start/end

r e t a

W l o o p p i Follow A70 for ¾ mile. Continue There are a series of walks that D straight on when A70 goes right and exploreA706 what remains of the foundry. Lanark to N take the first right uphill into Cleghorn. BraeheadBiggar W E Continue to traffic lights at A706. Turn 2.Auchengray The distinc- S left and follow A706 (not A743) into tive village church is modelled on a Distance: 20 miles. Lanark. Coptic church in Alexandria, Egypt. Time: 2-4 hours. At T-junction opposite YMCA turn Difficulty:Moderate/ left and follow High Street to station. Cycle 17 route Hard From the St Paul’s Parish Church Terrain: Mainly quiet Forth,Wilsontown Main St go to the left - downhill - back roads and a short and take first left into Manse Road. section of cyle path by & Braehead Follow Manse Road out of Forth to the A740. T-junction at church. Turn left and Map: OS Landranger 72 then after short distance turn right Start/finish: signed for Auchengray. Follow road Cycle 18 route St Paul’s Parish Church, downhill through Wilsontown and A signposted route that descends Main Street, Forth. then round to left. from Lanark to Kirkfielbank and Transport: Train: Follow road through Haywood then once over the river Clyde goes following signs for Auchengray 2 ½. off to the left where it’s necessary Lanark (8 miles); Shotts to climb steeply. The route goes via (7 miles) Refreshment: Steep climb into Auchengray. Turn right at T-junction past village Sandilands, Carmichael, Thanker- The Last Shift Inn, square. Leave Auchengray on the ton and Cormiston and enters Big- Braehead, 01555 812700 downhill and follow road round to gar on Lindsaylands Road. Good for Distance: 12 1/2 miles. the right and over the level crossing. linking with the Tweed Cycleway. Time: 1 1/2 -3 hours. Follow long straight road to Start/end T-junction at Eastshield Farm. Turn Difficulty:Easy Carpath Terrain: Quiet back right signed for Forth 3. Climb Newbigging Lanark roads rough in places into Braehead. Continue through Carstairs

C

Braehaed and descend past first left New l y Lanark d – Bog Road – and continue in the e Thankerton direction of Auchengray. Biggar Points of interest At bungalows take next left for A70 Tinto 1 Wilsontown Iron ford. Descend into ford or use Foundry - founded in 1812 bridge in flood and climb into were the first ironworks in Lanark- Forth. At T-junction turn left onto N shire and only the second in Scotland. Manse Rd and return to start. M74 W E S What will you take home when you Visit Lanarkshire? National Museum of Rural Life, East Kilbride Life, National Museum of Rural

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CORP_00906 visit lanarkshire cycle guide ad.indd 1 18/03/2015 09:25:35