Cycling in Lanarkshire comprises routes for all ages and abilities and you don’t have to travel miles to enjoy them. The area is accessible to millions yet retains many peaceful and seldom explored corners.
With miles of paths, Kilsyth is a great place for gentle cycling away from traffic. The Kilsyth Loop tales in Colzium Estate, the Forth and Clyde canal, the Dumbreck marshes and a brush with the Antonine Wall, so a short route can easily become a full day of exploration. Highlights include the ruins of the 15th-century Colzium Castle, the site of the Battle of Kilsyth in 1645, and one of the oldest curling ponds in the world.
For a longer and more challenging ride try Lanark, Tinto and Covington, that start and finish in the bustling market town. Highlights include the 17th-century Clydesholm Bridge; Tinto Hill, which is the highest point in the central lowlands with a straightforward walk to the top and wonderful views; and Covington’s hamlet of thatched cottages and farm, where Robert Burns spent the night.
Strathaven offers excellent cycling on gently undulating roads that lead to and from the busy market town. Highlights include Strathaven Castle, Loudoun Hill (the site of a famous victory by Robert the Bruce over the English in 1307) and the Battle of Drumclog memorial. Not far away is Whitelee Wind Farm, where there are off-road tracks for cross-country and mountain bikers.
Find more walking and cycling routes here.