Strathclyde Country Park: A Hub of Nature, Sport, and Family Fun in Lanarkshire
Explore Strathclyde Country Park’s vast loch, trails, watersports, and family-friendly adventures in the heart of Lanarkshire’s natural beauty.
Strathclyde Country Park, spanning 400 hectares in the River Clyde valley near Motherwell, Scotland, is a vibrant outdoor destination featuring Strathclyde Loch, extensive walking and cycling trails, watersports, adventure playgrounds, and a calendar full of major sporting and cultural events. With accessible facilities, family-friendly activities, and scenic natural habitats, it offers a diverse experience for visitors of all ages and interests.
A brief summary to Strathclyde Country Park
- 366 Hamilton Rd, Motherwell, ML1 3ED, GB
- +441698402060
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 6 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Bring suitable clothing and a towel if you plan to enjoy watersports or pedalos on Strathclyde Loch.
- Visit on a weekday morning for a quieter, more tranquil experience along the walking and cycling trails.
- Check the park’s event calendar in advance to catch major sporting competitions or music festivals.
- Use the accessible facilities if you have mobility needs, including step-free routes and accessible boat rides.
- Explore the historical sites such as the Roman Fort remains and the arched Roman bridge within the park.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving from central Motherwell to Strathclyde Country Park takes approximately 10-15 minutes via Hamilton Road. The park offers over 3,000 parking spaces across 10 car parks. Parking is free but can fill during major events, so plan accordingly.
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Bus
Regular bus services connect Motherwell, Bellshill, and Hamilton to stops near the park entrance. The journey typically lasts 20-30 minutes depending on your starting point. Check local timetables for frequency and routes. Walking from bus stops involves flat terrain and is accessible.
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Train plus Walk
Motherwell railway station is about 3 km from the park. From there, a 35-40 minute flat walk or a short local bus ride can get you to the park entrance. This option suits visitors combining rail travel with a scenic approach on foot.
Strathclyde Country Park location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Cold Weather
Discover more about Strathclyde Country Park
A Landscape Shaped by History and Nature
Strathclyde Country Park is set within 400 hectares of picturesque countryside in the valley of the River Clyde. The park’s centerpiece is the artificial Strathclyde Loch, created in the early 1970s by flooding the former mining village of Bothwellhaugh. This transformation forged a unique blend of natural and historical elements, including the remains of Bothwellhaugh Roman Fort and bathhouse, as well as the nearby arched Roman bridge and the historic site of the Battle of Bothwell Bridge. The park’s varied habitats—wetlands, native woodlands, and open parkland—support over 150 species of wildlife, making it a tranquil refuge for nature lovers and birdwatchers alike.Recreation and Adventure on Land and Water
Strathclyde Country Park is renowned for its extensive recreational offerings. The loch is a hub for watersports enthusiasts, providing activities such as rowing, sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, canoeing, and water skiing, with craft available for hire and expert instruction offered. For families and casual visitors, pedalos, bumper boats, speedboat trips, and waterwalkerz add fun on the water. On land, the park features well-maintained walking and cycling trails, including a popular 3-mile circuit around the loch, mountain bike skills loops, and a BMX pump track developed in partnership with the community. Adventure playgrounds and accessible facilities ensure that visitors of all ages and abilities can enjoy the park’s offerings.Events and Community Engagement
Throughout the year, Strathclyde Country Park hosts a wide range of major events that draw athletes, families, and spectators. These include international rowing regattas, triathlons, cycling and running races, music festivals, and spectacular firework displays, especially around Bonfire Night. The park also serves as a community hub with guided nature walks, countryside ranger activities, and club sports. The annual Parkrun every Saturday morning and charity events like the Inflatable 5k contribute to the park’s lively and inclusive atmosphere.Facilities and Accessibility
Visitors benefit from excellent amenities including a watersports centre with a café and toilets, multiple outdoor adventure playgrounds, bike hire (including all-ability bikes), and picnic areas. The park is designed to be accessible, featuring step-free walking routes, accessible toilets and changing facilities, hearing loops, ramps, and accessible boat rides. Ample parking is available across 10 locations with over 3,000 spaces, and public transport links connect the park to nearby towns such as Bellshill, Motherwell, and Hamilton.Natural Beauty and Year-Round Appeal
Strathclyde Country Park’s scenic loch and surrounding woodlands offer a peaceful environment for relaxation and wildlife observation. The changing seasons bring varied sights and sounds, from vibrant foliage in autumn to blooming wildflowers in spring. The park’s location near the River Clyde and its integration with long-distance paths like the Clyde Walkway and Greenlink Cycle Path make it a valued nature escape and photowalk destination. Whether for a leisurely stroll, vigorous workout, or family outing, the park provides a rewarding experience throughout the year.Future Developments and Vision
The park is undergoing a masterplan to enhance visitor experience and sustainability, including redevelopment of the Watersports Centre into a low-carbon health hub and the creation of an Art Park over the next decade. These initiatives aim to strengthen Strathclyde Country Park’s role as a premier outdoor destination that balances recreation, cultural enrichment, and environmental stewardship.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
North Lanarkshire International Brigades Memorial
1.2 km
Where North Lanarkshire's anti-fascist heroes are remembered—a memorial to 40 Spanish Civil War volunteers.
Netherton Cross (Hamilton)
1.7 km
Discover Hamilton’s oldest Christian symbol, the intricately carved 11th-century Netherton Cross, a rare relic of Scotland’s early medieval heritage.
Strathaven Castle
12.5 km
Discover the haunting ruins of Strathaven Castle, a 15th-century fortress steeped in history, legend, and Scottish heritage.
Ruins of Carluke old Parish Church (St Luke’s)
12.6 km
Discover the evocative ruins of Carluke Old Parish Church, a serene historic site echoing centuries of Scottish spiritual heritage.
Buffalo Bill Statue
15.2 km
Where the American frontier met Victorian Glasgow in an unforgettable winter spectacle.
Former Templeton Carpet Factory
15.5 km
A Venetian Gothic masterpiece in Glasgow’s East End, blending rich carpet-making heritage with vibrant modern community life.
Snuff Mill Bridge
15.6 km
Historic cast iron bridge over White Cart Water, blending Glasgow’s industrial heritage with scenic riverside charm.
Nelson's Monument, Glasgow
15.9 km
A towering 44-meter obelisk on Glasgow Green honoring Admiral Nelson’s naval victories and Glasgow’s pioneering civic spirit.
The Glasgow Necropolis
16.0 km
Explore the historical beauty of the Glasgow Necropolis, a Victorian cemetery offering stunning views and rich stories of Glasgow's past.
Glasgow 2014 Monument
16.1 km
A bold, colourful sculpture celebrating Glasgow’s 2014 Commonwealth Games, where sport, art and civic pride come together in a striking riverside landmark.
Bridge of Sighs
16.1 km
A quiet stone bridge in Glasgow’s Cathedral Square, linking the medieval cathedral to the Victorian Necropolis and echoing centuries of farewells.
Barrowland Park
16.2 km
Experience the charm of Barrowland Park, Glasgow's vibrant oasis featuring art, play areas, and a glimpse into the city's rich cultural heritage.
Glasgow Cathedral Burial Ground
16.2 km
Discover the historic Glasgow Cathedral Burial Ground, a tranquil oasis filled with centuries-old gravestones and rich stories in the heart of Glasgow.
St Andrew's in the Square
16.2 km
A stunning Georgian cultural venue in Glasgow, blending historic elegance with vibrant events and timeless charm.
Glasgow Cathedral
16.2 km
Explore the breathtaking Gothic architecture and rich heritage of Glasgow Cathedral, a must-visit for every traveler in Scotland.
Unmissable attractions to see
Hamilton Mausoleum
1.1 km
Explore Hamilton Mausoleum, a majestic 19th-century tomb famed for its soaring dome, exquisite marble interiors, and the world’s longest echo.
Duchess of Hamilton Park
1.2 km
A spacious, family-friendly park in Motherwell offering diverse sports, play areas, and tranquil green spaces for all ages and interests.
North Lanarkshire Heritage Centre
1.4 km
Discover North Lanarkshire’s rich industrial heritage, family activities, and stunning Clyde Valley views at this free and welcoming heritage centre.
The Cameronians - Scottish Rifles - Exploring The Regimental Collection
1.4 km
Explore the proud legacy and unique heritage of Scotland’s Cameronians in this historic regimental museum at Hamilton’s Low Parks.
The George Bar
1.6 km
A cherished Hamilton pub famed for its real ale, friendly vibe, and welcoming atmosphere since 1991.
River Clyde
1.8 km
Explore the River Clyde, Glasgow’s historic waterway famed for its shipbuilding legacy, industrial heritage, and vibrant riverside regeneration.
Our Lady of Good Aid Cathedral
1.9 km
Discover the architectural beauty and serene ambiance of Our Lady of Good Aid Cathedral, a must-see spiritual landmark in Motherwell.
RSPB Baron’s Haugh
1.9 km
Discover vibrant wetlands and woodlands at RSPB Baron's Haugh, a serene nature reserve rich with birds, otters, and seasonal wildlife in Motherwell.
Club 100
2.1 km
A welcoming, affordable sports bar in Motherwell offering lively events, great atmosphere, and a friendly local vibe.
M&D's Scotland's Theme Park
2.2 km
Scotland's only theme park offering thrilling rides, indoor fun, and tropical wildlife experiences for the whole family in scenic Strathclyde Country Park.
Dalzell Estate
2.4 km
Explore centuries of history and nature across Dalzell Estate’s majestic grounds, from ancient trees to stunning gardens in Motherwell.
Chatelherault Country Park
2.6 km
Explore 500 acres of historic woodland, scenic river trails, and family-friendly adventures at Chatelherault Country Park near Hamilton.
Cadzow Castle
2.8 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Cadzow Castle, a hidden 16th-century stronghold of the Hamiltons set above a dramatic gorge in scenic Chatelherault Country Park.
Billy McNeil statue
3.8 km
Celebrate the legendary Celtic captain Billy McNeill with this iconic statue in his hometown of Bellshill, a symbol of football history and local pride.
Wooddean Park
4.2 km
Wooddean Park offers a peaceful community green space in Bothwell with play areas, sports facilities, and ongoing regeneration efforts.
Essential places to dine
Gusti D'Italia
1.6 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Hamilton at Gusti D'Italia, where tradition meets modern dining.
Twenty One Restaurant
1.6 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality at Twenty One Restaurant, Hamilton’s modern gem for fresh, handcrafted cuisine.
GC Bar & Bistro
1.8 km
Experience Southern American flavors with a friendly family touch at GC Bar & Bistro, Hamilton’s vibrant steakhouse and bistro.
Rocca Ristorante & Bar
1.8 km
Elegant Italian dining in Hamilton’s historic heart, blending classic flavors with a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.
Da Claudio
1.8 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with refined flavors and warm hospitality at Da Claudio, Motherwell’s beloved dining destination.
Da Antonio
1.9 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality at Da Antonio, Hamilton’s beloved Italian restaurant on Muir Street.
Leonardo's
2.0 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality await you at Leonardo's, Hamilton’s charming Italian restaurant with fresh cuisine and great value.
Eataliano
2.1 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in a modern, family-friendly setting at Cafe Eataliano in Hamilton.
Carrigan's Hamilton
3.9 km
Cozy British gastropub in Hamilton known for hearty portions, friendly service, and a welcoming family atmosphere.
Coalfield's Steakhouse Bistro & Bar
4.7 km
A welcoming steakhouse bistro in Holytown offering expertly grilled meats and a lively, casual atmosphere for all occasions.
Wide Mouth Frog
4.7 km
Modern European dining with a scenic golf course backdrop, perfect for families and special occasions in Motherwell.
Artisan
5.7 km
Artisan serves top-quality Scottish cuisine with a modern European twist in a welcoming, value-driven setting on Wishaw’s Main Street.
Cocktails & Steaks
6.1 km
A stylish steakhouse in Uddingston blending expertly cooked steaks with crafted cocktails in a lively, welcoming setting.
SmithS Restaurant
6.1 km
Experience refined French dining with a Scottish twist in the heart of Uddingston’s welcoming Parisian-style brasserie.
Crossbasket Castle
7.1 km
Exclusive-use 17th-century Scottish castle near Glasgow offering luxury accommodation, fine dining, and stunning grounds for weddings and events.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Primark
1.6 km
Discover affordable, trendy fashion at Primark Hamilton, your go-to clothing store in the heart of Quarry Street.
Motherwell Shopping Centre
1.6 km
A bustling community shopping centre in Motherwell offering diverse retail and dining options with convenient access and local charm.
Regent Shopping Centre
1.7 km
Hamilton's premier shopping destination since the 1970s, offering quality retail and dining in the heart of town.
New Cross Centre
1.8 km
A central shopping destination in Hamilton poised for transformation into a vibrant new town centre community.
Deja Elite Boutique
2.0 km
Discover exquisite designer dresses and personalized styling at Hamilton’s premier boutique for prom, wedding, and evening wear.
Fairhill Store
3.6 km
A welcoming convenience store in Hamilton offering fresh local products and essentials with friendly service and convenient hours.
La Grande Boutique
3.8 km
Discover stylish women's fashion and curated apparel collections at La Grande Boutique, Bellshill’s premier destination for contemporary and timeless looks.
Holytown Antiques
4.6 km
Discover timeless antiques and vintage treasures with rich stories at Holytown Antiques in Motherwell’s historic heart.
Wild Grace
5.8 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and Scottish charm at Wild Grace, a cozy gift shop in the heart of Uddingston, Glasgow.
Libellula Boutique
5.9 km
Chic and accessible ladies’ fashion in the heart of Uddingston, blending style with a welcoming, family-friendly vibe.
Heart Style
8.4 km
Discover unique gifts, candles, and bespoke framing in a cozy boutique setting at Heart Style, Coatbridge’s charming local treasure.
Blairgrove Shopping Centre
8.4 km
A welcoming local shopping centre in Coatbridge blending convenience with community charm on Bank Street.
Clyde Valley Antiques Centre
9.8 km
Curated antiques and collectibles in Scotland's Clyde Valley, where history meets horticulture.
The Scottish Gift Company
9.9 km
Discover unique Scottish souvenirs and gifts at The Scottish Gift Company in East Kilbride, showcasing local craftsmanship and culture.
The Original Factory Shop (Carluke)
12.5 km
Discover unbeatable discounts on fashion, beauty, and home essentials at The Original Factory Shop in Carluke’s town center.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Electric Bar
1.3 km
A lively Motherwell pub with diverse menu options, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
Horseshoe Bar
1.5 km
Lively and welcoming Motherwell pub known for friendly service, great pints, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
Bar Zero
1.5 km
A vibrant bar and grill in Hamilton offering a welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu from lunch to late night.
The Railway Tavern
1.6 km
Motherwell’s vibrant Railway Tavern offers live music, hearty homemade food, and a cozy atmosphere with year-round comfort and friendly vibes.
Courtyard Bar Hamilton
1.6 km
A lively and welcoming town centre pub in Hamilton offering friendly service and a relaxed atmosphere with moderate prices.
JunkYard Hamilton
1.7 km
Lively cocktail bar and grill in Hamilton offering rustic charm, delicious barbecue, and expertly crafted drinks in a vibrant social setting.
Jilts Bar
1.9 km
A classic Hamilton pub serving hearty pub grub and friendly vibes in a cozy, no-frills setting.
ML3 Bar
1.9 km
Experience Hamilton’s vibrant nightlife at ML3 Bar, where friendly service, great drinks, and lively atmosphere come together in a welcoming setting.
Victoria Bar
2.0 km
A welcoming traditional Scottish pub in Hamilton offering affordable drinks, lively atmosphere, and authentic local charm.
Butterburn Bar
2.1 km
A friendly, traditional pub in Hamilton offering good food, lively sports, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Bar West
2.5 km
Casual and friendly bar & grill in Hamilton, perfect for hearty meals, drinks, and social nights out.
The Peacock & Ivy
2.6 km
A vibrant bar and restaurant in Hamilton offering modern dining, lively atmosphere, and a broad drink selection in a stylish setting.
Bridges Bar
4.1 km
Discover the warm ambiance and local charm of Bridges Bar in New Stevenston, where refreshing drinks and community spirit await.
The Woodhead Bar
4.1 km
A friendly local pub in Hamilton offering affordable drinks, classic and modern dishes, and lively monthly entertainment in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Ranch
5.3 km
Larkhall’s friendly pub and grill offering great value, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere with a spacious beer garden.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Hamilton Palace
1.5 km
Lively nightclub, bar, and restaurant in Hamilton’s city center, open late on weekends for vibrant nightlife and entertainment.
ROC Nightclub Hamilton
1.5 km
Experience Hamilton’s vibrant late-night scene at ROC Nightclub, the city’s energetic hub for weekend parties and music from 11 PM to 3 AM.
Eden Night Club
8.6 km
Vibrant late-night hotspot in Coatbridge offering house, R&B, and chart music with a lively atmosphere and smart dress code.
Avenue Nightclub Coatbridge
8.6 km
Coatbridge’s premier late-night nightclub for over-21s, offering vibrant music, modern vibes, and a lively weekend party scene.
Pulse
9.3 km
Experience Airdrie’s vibrant nightlife at Pulse Nightclub, where music, dancing, and unforgettable moments come alive.
I-Kandy Nightclub
9.4 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at I-Kandy Nightclub in Airdrie, where vibrant music and a lively atmosphere await!
Downtown Nightclub
10.4 km
Experience East Kilbride’s vibrant weekend nightlife at Downtown Nightclub, a hub of music, dancing, and late-night energy in the town centre.
Skye Nightclub & Lounge
10.6 km
Energetic nightclub and lounge in East Kilbride offering vibrant nightlife, music, and drinks in a stylish setting.
18 Candleriggs
16.5 km
Glasgow's kitsch cabaret haven where dazzling shows, tasty grill fare, and lively vibes create unforgettable Merchant City nights.
AXM Glasgow
16.8 km
Scotland's biggest LGBTQ+ nightclub: two floors of pop, charts, and dance in Glasgow's heart, with cheap drinks and zero attitude.
Polo Lounge
16.8 km
Glasgow's grandest gay nightclub: multi-level dance floors, cheap drinks, and non-stop energy until dawn in Merchant City's heart.
Riding Room
16.8 km
Fancy cabaret club in Glasgow's gay triangle, serving exotic kettle cocktails alongside burlesque, magic, and cheeky shows in a lively, intimate venue.
Club X
16.8 km
Glasgow's underground RnB haven: where beats throb, lights flash, and the LGBTQ+ community dances till dawn in Merchant City's beating heart.
Delmonicas
16.8 km
Scotland's biggest gay club: drag shows, karaoke, DJs, and non-stop inclusive party vibes in Glasgow's Merchant City heart.
La Cheetah Club
17.0 km
Glasgow’s intimate basement club with a powerful sound system, vibrant underground beats, and a welcoming community spirit.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
