Best day out in Lanarkshire

Published on Tuesday 25 March 2008 20:19

With nine country parks and five nature reserves, Lanarkshire is a leading spot for flora and fauna in the Lowlands.

NATURE PARKS & WALKS

www.visitlanarkshire.com With nine country parks and five nature reserves, Lanarkshire is a leading spot for flora and fauna in the Lowlands. With many unique natural habitats, including beautiful Falls of Clyde and Clyde Valley Woodlands, you can explore miles of unspoilt countryside. Take it at your own pace, or join one of the guided walks hosted by the Scottish Countryside Ranger service.

NEW LANARK WORLD HERITAGE SITE

South Lanarkshire, 01555 661345 www.newlanark.org One of only two UNESCO world heritage sites on mainland Scotland, this beautifully restored 18th– century cotton mill village close to the Falls of Clyde is easily accessible – less than an hour’s drive from Edinburgh and Glasgow. Open every day from 11am to 5pm.

CHATELHERAULT COUNTRY PARK

Hamilton, 01698 426213 Chatelherault, a five-star visitor attraction, was built in 1732 as the hunting lodge and summer house for the Dukes of Hamilton. Designed by celebrated architect William Adam, it now serves as the magnificent gateway to the country park. The restored buildings house an exhibition gallery and gift shop. Visitors can also tour the duke’s private banqueting room, his apartments and formal gardens. Entrance to the park is free.

AMAZONIA

Strathclyde Country Park, 01698 333 777 www.ama-zone-ia.com Scotland’s largest indoor rainforest attraction is a fun and educational experience. It’s a unique place to learn about exotic wildlife found in the tropical forests of the Amazon. As well as exotic spiders, reptiles and amphibians, you’ll encounter furrier friends including bush baby monkeys. Take part in daily animal-handling sessions, or wander around to absorb the sights and sounds of toucans, fruit bats, macaws and various butterflies.

M&D’S THEME PARK

Strathclyde Country Park, 0870 112 3777 www.scotlandsthemepark.com If you’re a thrill-seeker, Scotland’s leading theme and adventure park is a must. M&D’s will get your heart racing as the Express, Whitewater, Bungee and Mine Train will see you riding the rollercoaster, conquering the water drops, catapulting into the skies and screaming! The top rides are the terrifying Tsunami and Tornado. The Tsunami is Scotland’s only inverted rollercoaster ride.

&#149 More info: www.visitlanarkshire.com