Attractions and Places To See around Glenmavis - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Glenmavis, a village in North Lanarkshire, Scotland, include a variety of historical landmarks, natural features, and recreational sites. The area offers opportunities to explore Roman history, enjoy lochs and waterfalls, and engage in outdoor activities. While Glenmavis is a smaller community, several notable locations are within easy reach, providing diverse options for visitors.
Best attractions and places to see around Glenmavis
- The most popular attractions is Croy Hill Roman Fort, a viewpoint that is one of 16 Roman forts built along the Antonine Wall from AD140. From its summit, visitors can enjoy extensive views over the Kilsyth Hills, the Firth of Forth, and Fife hills.
- Another must-see spot is Strathclyde Loch, a trail and significant natural feature. It is centered within 400 hectares of countryside, offering opportunities for recreation and enjoying the outdoors.
- Visitors also love Strathkelvin Railway Path, a resurfaced path popular for cycling and dog walking. This path helps avoid road traffic and offers a smooth surface for outdoor activities between Kirkintilloch and Lennoxtown.
- Glenmavis is known for historical sites, natural landscapes, and recreational trails. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from Roman forts to lochs and cycle paths.
- The attractions around Glenmavis are appreciated by the komoot community, with 25 photos and 70 upvotes from visitors.
Last updated: July 2, 2026
Croy Hill Roman Fort
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Strathkelvin Railway Path
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Strathclyde Loch
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Colzium Waterfall
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Blantyreferme World War II Anti-Aircraft Battery
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The battery is described as having four emplacements armed with 4.5-inch guns (1942-43 then re-equipped with 3.7-inch guns (1945), command post, magazine, gun store, and other support buildings, with an accommodation camp located to the east. Records indicate the later addition of two further emplacements. A GL Radar mat lay to the northwest of the site, reported to operate Mk II radar in 1942-43.
No significant remains survive of the accommodation camp, and while much of the battery and its buildings can be found, the emplacements have been vandalised, some heavily, while others appear to have been lost in the undergrowth. Numerous small details remain scattered about the site, such as small shelters made of corrugated iron sheeting, and ground features which may be related to sewage handling, such as manhole covers.
Although a third magazine was known to have been reported on the site, possibly under a spoil heap, this was not confirmed until 2009, when it was found buried beneath the spoil during the winter, when the vegetation had died back, and photographs could be taken of the roof, entrance, and storage bays within.
source: secretscotland.org.uk/index.php/Secrets/AABatteryBlantyreferme
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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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Once you get out of Kirkie, the path is quiet. It's a lovely cycle with lots to see.
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The waterfall at Colzium, a sight to behold indeed. Nestled in the heart of the Colzium Glen, this waterfall is a part of the Colzium Lennox Estate. It’s a place where nature and history intertwine, creating a tapestry of beauty and intrigue. The waterfall is located at the top of the Glen. To reach it, you follow a path that meanders alongside a burn upstream. You cross a stone bridge and continue upstream. The sound of the water cascading down the rocks is a melody that nature has been perfecting for centuries. Once you reach the waterfall, you cross another bridge and go immediately right to follow a path to a road. This road, known as the Tak-Ma-Doon Road, takes you uphill to a car park and viewpoint. From here, you can enjoy spectacular views of Lanarkshire and beyond.
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Croy Hill was a Roman fort,and probable temporary camp
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Surface now brand new at Southern end, makes it a delightful cruise through woodland
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Another good waterfall near the road in the Campsies. Shaded so it's a good spot to cool down on a hot day.
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A World War II anti-aircraft battery was sited at Blantyreferme, near Blantyre to the southeast of Glasgow, west side of Blantyre Farm Road. Site number GSG1 (early), S1 (later). Part of the Clyde AA Defences, the site was also known as Blantyre Ferme, Blantyre, or Uddingston. The battery is described as having four emplacements armed with 4.5-inch guns (1942-43 then re-equipped with 3.7-inch guns (1945), command post, magazine, gun store, and other support buildings, with an accommodation camp located to the east. Records indicate the later addition of two further emplacements. A GL Radar mat lay to the northwest of the site, reported to operate Mk II radar in 1942-43. No significant remains survive of the accommodation camp, and while much of the battery and its buildings can be found, the emplacements have been vandalised, some heavily, while others appear to have been lost in the undergrowth. Numerous small details remain scattered about the site, such as small shelters made of corrugated iron sheeting, and ground features which may be related to sewage handling, such as manhole covers. Although a third magazine was known to have been reported on the site, possibly under a spoil heap, this was not confirmed until 2009, when it was found buried beneath the spoil during the winter, when the vegetation had died back, and photographs could be taken of the roof, entrance, and storage bays within. source: https://www.secretscotland.org.uk/index.php/Secrets/AABatteryBlantyreferme
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The path has now been fully resurfaced (09/09/2022) between Kirkintilloch and Lennoxtown. Surface is like a race track but be careful it’s very popular with dog walkers.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular attractions for visitors around Glenmavis?
Visitors frequently enjoy the historical significance of Croy Hill Roman Fort, which offers extensive views from its summit. Another popular spot is Strathclyde Loch, a significant natural feature within 400 hectares of countryside, ideal for recreation. The Strathkelvin Railway Path is also well-liked for cycling and dog walking, providing a smooth, traffic-free route.
What natural features can I explore near Glenmavis?
The area offers several natural highlights. You can visit Strathclyde Loch, a large loch within a country park, or discover the picturesque Colzium Waterfall, a shaded spot perfect for cooling down. Drumpellier Country Park, located in Coatbridge, features two natural lochs, woodlands, and grasslands, forming part of the Seven Lochs wetland.
Are there historical sites to visit around Glenmavis?
Yes, the region is rich in history. The most prominent is Croy Hill Roman Fort, one of the 16 Roman forts along the Antonine Wall. You can also explore the Blantyreferme World War II Anti-Aircraft Battery, a site that served as part of the Clyde AA Defences. The New Monkland Cemetery also holds historical significance, including a reburied cemetery from Airdrie.
What family-friendly activities are available in the Glenmavis area?
Families can enjoy Drumpellier Country Park in Coatbridge, which offers a Crannog play area designed as an Iron Age dwelling, along with extensive paths. Palacerigg Country Park in Glasgow also features playgrounds. For indoor fun, The Time Capsule in Coatbridge provides an ice rink and a water park. The Strathkelvin Railway Path is also suitable for family cycling and walks.
Are there good options for walking or cycling near Glenmavis?
Absolutely. The Strathkelvin Railway Path is a resurfaced route popular for cycling and dog walking between Kirkintilloch and Lennoxtown. For more extensive options, you can find various routes for cycling and hiking. For example, there are many cycling routes around Glenmavis, including easy loops around Lochend Loch, and easy hikes like the Frog Trail or loops around Fannyside Lochs.
Where can I find Roman history near Glenmavis?
The primary site for Roman history is Croy Hill Roman Fort, which is part of the Antonine Wall. From its summit, you can see the remains of the fort and enjoy views that stretch to the Firth of Forth. Additionally, within Strathclyde Country Park, you can find the remains of Bothwellhaugh Roman Fort and a Roman bathhouse.
Are there any unique or lesser-known places worth visiting?
Beyond the main attractions, consider visiting the New Monkland Cemetery, which features a reburied cemetery from Chapel Street, Airdrie, complete with its headstones. On clear days, the Isle of Arran can sometimes be seen from the church gate. The former Glenmavis Distillery in Bathgate, though no longer operational, has a historical legacy of producing single malt whisky.
What kind of industrial heritage can I discover in the region?
The Summerlee Museum of Scottish Industrial Life in Coatbridge is a must-visit. Situated on the site of a 19th-century ironworks, it offers a deep dive into Scotland's industrial past, including rides on Scotland's only operational tramway. The historical context of the former Glenmavis Distillery also speaks to the region's industrial past.
Are there places to cool down or relax outdoors on a warm day?
Yes, the Colzium Waterfall is a picturesque and shaded spot near the road in the Campsie Fells, ideal for cooling down. Strathclyde Loch also offers a refreshing environment within its expansive country park, perfect for leisurely strolls or enjoying the water.
What are the options for dog-friendly trails around Glenmavis?
Many outdoor areas around Glenmavis are dog-friendly. The Strathkelvin Railway Path is popular for dog walking. Drumpellier Country Park and Palacerigg Country Park also welcome dogs on their extensive networks of paths, offering plenty of space for walks amidst nature.
How can I find routes for outdoor activities like cycling or hiking?
Komoot offers various guides for outdoor activities in the area. You can explore cycling routes around Glenmavis, including options for touring bicycles. For those who prefer walking, there are easy hikes around Glenmavis, and for more adventurous cyclists, gravel biking routes are also available.
Are there any accessible trails or attractions for visitors with mobility needs?
The Strathkelvin Railway Path is a resurfaced path, making it a smoother option for those with mobility needs or using wheelchairs. While specific accessibility details for all attractions vary, many country parks like Drumpellier and Palacerigg offer wide, well-maintained paths that can be more accessible.
What is the best time of year to visit Glenmavis attractions?
The best time to visit Glenmavis attractions generally depends on your preferred activities. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for outdoor pursuits like walking and cycling, and enjoying natural features like Colzium Waterfall. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter can offer unique, crisp views, though some paths might be more challenging.
Most popular attractions around Glenmavis
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