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Odds n' Ends..! |
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| ADMINISTRATION |
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The temptation to speed through the Clyde Valley is considerable, especially since the raw beauty of the
Highlands and Argyll are all within easy reach of the Glasgow or Edinburgh. Although the surrounding towns
and villages are certainly 'missable,' some receive far less attention than they really deserve,
tainted by the image of being dejected industrial towns. Don't be so quick to skip this region!
With dramatic ruined castles, industrial heritage, country parks and interesting towns, the Valley of
the River Clyde is full of rewarding surprises. The area has lush woods, glens, lochs, varied wildlife,
and magnificent views of the mountains beyond. Glasgow makes an excellent base for exploring this
region, made easy by the region's rail service. Paisley, where the distinctive cloth got its name,
is the most interesting of the towns of the west. New Lanark mills and workers' village has been
nominated as a World Heritage Site. Bothwell Castle, located in one of Scotland's most dramatic
citadels, is worth a visit, which endured a long siege by Edward I during the Wars of Independence.
Look for signs to the Clyde Valley Tourist Route, which leaves the M74 motorway to interesting towns to the
south of Glasgow. Another good route is the West Highland Highway, a 95 mile route from Milngavie,
near Glasgow, to north of Fort William, across gorgeous mountainous terrain with beckoning lochs,
and breathtaking moorland scenery. Close to the upper reaches of the winding river the stunning town
of Biggar has many award-winning museums.
Nearby Chatelherault is the former hunting lodge of the Dukes of Hamilton (Hamilton is the nearest town).
Built by the famous architect William Adam in 1732, it has been restored and houses a fascinating
visitor's centre. While you're in the area, drop in to the Hamilton Mausoleum, which has Britain's
longest echo - 15 seconds! The Carfin Pilgrimage Centre (in the grounds of Carfin Grotto) traces
the history and traditions of pilgrimage in Scotland.
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