📌 Crossford, South Lanarkshire
★★★
The depth of the gorges carrying many of the upper River Clyde’s tributaries has restricted human development and preserved the ancient woodland within. The Mouse Water, Jock’s Gill and the Avon Water at Chatelherault are some of the best examples – as well as the Lower Nethan Gorge nature reserve. This unspoiled, wooded valley carved by the River Nethan is home to otters and green woodpeckers amongst other wildlife. A mile-long path links Crossford village at the downstream end to Craignethan Castle (also worth visiting) at the other, although dense woodland restricts views from much of the reserve.
🌍 Location
📌 Eastern access point is on Lanark Road (A72), north side of Crossford
🧭 O.S. Grid Reference: NS 824471
🛰️ GPS coordinates: 55.702577,-3.872766
🚌 Bus to Crossford at reserve entrance
🚗 Street parking for east end of reserve. Car park (only during castle opening hours) at Craignethan Castle for west end of reserve
📝 Key info
⌚ Always open
🎫 Free
💬 Bring stout footwear for exploring the gorge – paths are steep & muddy in places (⬤ Moderate).
