Attractions and Places To See around Clarkston - Top 9
Attractions and places to see around Clarkston feature a collection of scenic lochs nestled within diverse natural landscapes. This region offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as walking, cycling, and wildlife observation. Visitors can explore tranquil waters, woodlands, and historical sites, providing varied experiences for those seeking natural beauty and recreation. The area is characterized by its numerous lochs, each offering unique trails and views.
Best attractions and places to see around Clarkston
- The most popular attractions is Strathclyde Loch, a trail that lies in 400 hectares of countryside in the valley of the River Clyde. It is a popular spot for people looking to escape the hustle-and-bustle, with habitats including wetland and native woodland.
- Another must-see spot is Fannyside Lochs, a lake with two pretty lochs located adjacent to Palacerigg Country Park. There are several combinations of trails here, offering opportunities to combine a walk through the park and the lochs while keeping an eye out for wildlife.
- Visitors also love Black Loch, a small but pretty loch in a rural setting. It offers a tranquil view, often shared with local sheep.
- Clarkston is known for its numerous lochs, trails, and natural landscapes. The region provides a variety of attractions to see and explore, from family-friendly paths to scenic viewpoints.
- The attractions around Clarkston are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 40 upvotes and 7 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: July 2, 2026
Strathclyde Loch
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Lochend Loch
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Fannyside Lochs
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Broadwood Loch
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Black Loch
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Tips from the Community
“Strathclyde Loch is more than just water: beneath its surface, Bothwellhaugh, a mining village swept away in the 1970s, vanished. Today, only a cairn remains as a reminder of the houses, schools, and shops. There's also a Roman fort and an ancient road (yes, Watling Street is still here). Final warning: In 2012, a norovirus outbreak left 57 swimmers unconscious. Water caution.
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Always great pictures, beautiful impressions, or amazing panoramic shots... A worthwhile ✅🚲—tour around the loch (lake)😅😅
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These are two really pretty lochs here that are located adjacent to Palacerigg Country Park. There is a sailing club there, fishing and some nice walking trails too. There are acually several combinations of trails here, but if you combine a walk through the park and the lochs, then keep an eye out for the wildlife. It's also a very tranquil place with lovely views across the calm waters to the surrounding hills and countryside.
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Braodwood Loch was created in 1994 when a dam was built across the burn as part of a flood remediation scheme, it helps control water downstream. Today it's a beautiful wildlife habitat within the urban area of Cumbernauld. The loch is home to flocks of swans and other water birds as well as lots of insects and underwater life. The circular trail around the loch is popular with local families and dog walkers.
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Halfway between Edinburgh and Glasgow Black loch is a small but pretty loch in a rural setting. It'll probably just be you and sheep enjoying the view.
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Great place to go for a run or a slow cycle. There's a trail all around the lake but too many people to expect to fai any major stores on a bike.
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Strathclyde Country Park lies in 400 hectares of countryside in the valley of the River Clyde, centred around Strathclyde Loch. It is a popular spot for people looking to escape the hustle-and-bustle. The remains of Bothwellhaugh Roman Fort and a Roman bathhouse can be seen in the park, where the South Calder Water flows into the loch. Within the park, you find habitats including wetland and native woodland.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of natural attractions can I explore around Clarkston?
Clarkston is known for its scenic lochs and diverse natural landscapes. You can explore tranquil waters, woodlands, and various trails. Highlights include Strathclyde Loch, Fannyside Lochs, and Lochend Loch, all offering opportunities for walking, cycling, and wildlife observation.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the Clarkston area?
Yes, many attractions around Clarkston are suitable for families. Strathclyde Loch, Lochend Loch, Fannyside Lochs, and Broadwood Loch are all categorized as family-friendly, offering easy trails, picnic spots, and opportunities to enjoy nature together.
What historical sites can be found near Clarkston's natural attractions?
Near Strathclyde Loch, within Strathclyde Country Park, you can find the remains of Bothwellhaugh Roman Fort and a Roman bathhouse. This adds a historical dimension to your visit amidst the natural beauty.
What outdoor activities are popular around Clarkston's lochs?
The lochs around Clarkston are perfect for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy walking, cycling, and birdwatching. For example, Fannyside Lochs has a sailing club and fishing opportunities, while Broadwood Loch features a popular circular trail for local families and dog walkers.
Are there hiking trails near Clarkston's attractions?
Yes, there are numerous hiking trails. For easy walks, explore the light gravel paths around Lochend Loch in Drumpellier Park or the trails connecting Fannyside Lochs with Palacerigg Country Park. You can find more detailed hiking routes in the Hiking around Clarkston guide.
Can I go cycling around Clarkston's lochs?
Absolutely. Strathclyde Loch offers an easy trail all around the lake, popular for slow cycles. For more extensive rides, you can find road cycling routes that pass by Black Loch. Explore options in the Road Cycling Routes around Clarkston guide.
What makes <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/995251" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Lochend Loch</a> a good place to visit?
Lochend Loch, set in Drumpellier Park, is praised for its beautiful impressions and panoramic shots. Visitors enjoy the light gravel paths through woodlands and around the loch, with plenty of opportunities to spot resident and migratory waterfowl, as well as fungi in autumn.
What is unique about <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/1389954" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Black Loch</a>?
Black Loch is a small but picturesque loch situated in a tranquil rural setting between Edinburgh and Glasgow. It offers a peaceful view, often shared only with local sheep, making it an ideal spot for quiet contemplation.
What wildlife can I expect to see around Clarkston's lochs?
The lochs are rich in wildlife. Around Lochend Loch, you can spot resident and migratory waterfowl. Broadwood Loch is home to flocks of swans and other water birds, as well as various insects and underwater life. The woodlands also offer opportunities for birdwatching.
Are there any easy hiking trails suitable for beginners near Clarkston?
Yes, several easy hiking trails are available. The loop around Lochend Loch from Blairhill is an easy 2 km walk. Another easy option is the loop around Broadwood Loch. You can find more easy routes in the Easy hikes around Clarkston guide.
What do visitors appreciate most about the attractions around Clarkston?
Visitors frequently praise the tranquil atmosphere, beautiful scenery, and the opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle. Many enjoy the easy riding and walking trails, the abundance of wildlife, and the picturesque views across the calm waters of the lochs to the surrounding hills and countryside.
Is <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/4602510" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Broadwood Loch</a> worth visiting?
Broadwood Loch is a beautiful wildlife habitat within Cumbernauld. It's home to swans, other water birds, and various insects. The circular trail around the loch is popular with local families and dog walkers, making it a pleasant spot for a leisurely stroll and nature observation.
Most popular attractions around Clarkston
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