Clyde Valley Woodlands Walk
This walk takes you through a section of the Clyde Valley Woodlands Nature Reserve in Lanark.
You can start the walk from the car park at Cartland Bridge on the north western side of Lanark. From here you can pick up trails through woodland above the Cartland Craigs. You'll continue along a pleasant riverside path along Mouse Water, passing waterfalls before finishing at Cleghorn.
Along the way there are some lovely views of the surrounding countryside of the Mouse Valley. You'll also encounter a variety of flora and fauna. In spring and summer, the woodland floor comes alive with wildflowers such as bluebells, wood anemones, and wild garlic, creating a vibrant and fragrant environment. The trees—mainly oak, ash, and birch—provide habitats for birds like wood warblers, treecreepers, and tawny owls. You might also spot signs of mammals like roe deer and badgers, especially near the quieter parts of the trail.
Be sure to stay on marked paths, as the steep and unstable cliffs can pose a hazard in some sections
You can continue your walking in the area by heading to the nearby Lanark Park Loch.
Postcode
ML11 9UF - Please note: Postcode may be approximate for some rural locationsClyde Valley Woodlands Ordnance Survey Map 
- view and print off detailed OS map
Clyde Valley Woodlands Open Street Map 
- view and print off detailed map
Clyde Valley Woodlands OS Map 
- Mobile GPS OS Map with Location tracking
Clyde Valley Woodlands Open Street Map 
- Mobile GPS Map with Location tracking
Further Information and Other Local Ideas
Head north west to Crossford and you can visit the ruins of the ancient Craignethan Castle. You'll also visit the Lower Nethan Gorge Nature Reserve, another section of the Clyde Valley Woodlands.
Cycle Routes and Walking Routes Nearby
Photos
Path in Cartland Craigs Nature Reserve. The trail passes through ancient woodland that forms part of one of Scotland's richest natural reserves. The route is approximately 6 km (one way) and offers a mix of riverside paths and wooded terrain, making it a serene and immersive experience in nature
The Mouse Valley from Mousebank Road. Photo taken at around 8pm at the start of August, with a low sun in the west. After all the rain over the summer, all green vegetation appears to be growing to its maximum level.
Water meadow by the Mouse Water. View near Lockhart Mill, looking SW, with prominent forget-me-nots.
Mouse Water
Sign at Entrance to Cleghorn Glen. The gorge-like terrain of Cleghorn Glen is particularly striking, with steep slopes covered in mosses and ferns, as well as the flowing Mouse Water carving through the reserve. In autumn, the landscape transforms with rich hues, and the abundance of fungi draws interest from mycology enthusiasts. Winter offers more open views through the leafless trees, allowing you to better appreciate the dramatic cliffs and the dynamic river
Mouse Water