The best gravel rides around New Lanark

Yes, New Lanark offers an easy gravel bike route perfect for beginners. Consider the View of Tinto Hill – Carmichael Hill loop from Carmichael. This 6.8-mile (10.9 km) trail is generally completed in under an hour and features gentle gradients, making it a great introduction to gravel biking in the area.

For experienced gravel bikers seeking a challenge, New Lanark has several demanding routes. The Wilsontown Inn Ruins – Black Law Wind Farm loop from Carluke is a difficult 35.6-mile (57.3 km) path exploring historic ruins and wind farm landscapes. Another challenging option is the Douglas Water – Falls of Clyde loop from Lanark, a 31.7-mile (51.0 km) trail through river valleys and past waterfalls.

Many of the gravel bike routes around New Lanark are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Black Law Wind Farm – Fast Gravel Track loop from Carluke is a popular 19.7-mile (31.6 km) circular route featuring fast gravel tracks through open landscapes.

The New Lanark area is rich in natural beauty. Many routes pass by the stunning Falls of Clyde (Waterfalls), a major highlight. You can also explore the Castlebank Park Woodland and River Walk, offering picturesque river views. The Falls of Clyde (Waterfalls) – View of the Falls of Clyde loop from Lanark specifically focuses on these natural wonders.

The best time for gravel biking around New Lanark is generally from spring through autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is milder, and the trails are less likely to be muddy or icy, offering more comfortable riding conditions. Summer provides the longest daylight hours, while spring and autumn offer beautiful scenery with fewer crowds.

For families looking for a less strenuous ride, the easier routes are ideal. The View of Tinto Hill – Carmichael Hill loop from Carmichael is a shorter, easy option that could be suitable for families with older children or those new to gravel biking, offering a pleasant experience without significant climbs.

Winter gravel biking in New Lanark requires appropriate gear due to potentially cold, wet, and windy conditions. We recommend layering with thermal base layers, a waterproof and windproof jacket, and insulated cycling trousers. Waterproof gloves, a warm hat or buff, and waterproof cycling shoes or overshoes are also essential to stay comfortable and safe.

While specific cafe stops are not detailed for every route, the trails often pass through or near towns like Carluke and Lanark. These towns typically offer local cafes, pubs, or shops where you can refuel. It's always a good idea to check opening times in advance, especially for smaller establishments.

Parking is generally available in the towns and villages that serve as starting points for these routes, such as Carluke and Lanark. Specific parking details can often be found on individual route pages on komoot or by checking local council websites for public car parks. Always ensure you park responsibly and check for any parking restrictions or fees.

Yes, New Lanark and nearby towns like Carluke and Lanark are accessible by public transport. Lanark has a train station with connections to Glasgow, and local bus services operate within the area. You can plan your journey using national rail and local bus service websites to find the most convenient access points for the trails.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in New Lanark, with an average score of 3.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the varied terrain, which includes river valleys, open wind farm areas, and rolling hills, providing a diverse and engaging ride. The mix of easy, moderate, and difficult routes also means there's something for every skill level.