Best attractions and places to see around Holehills Rawyards include natural features and historical sites. The area is characterized by woodlands and lochs, offering walking routes and opportunities for wildlife observation. While Holehills Rawyards itself features local woodlands, the wider Lanarkshire region provides a broader array of attractions, including industrial heritage and significant historical landmarks.
Last updated: July 2, 2026
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
Highlight • Natural
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Holehills Rawyards.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
“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.
0
0
Always great pictures, beautiful impressions, or amazing panoramic shots... A worthwhile ✅🚲—tour around the loch (lake)😅😅
0
0
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.
3
0
Croy Hill was a Roman fort,and probable temporary camp
0
0
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
0
0
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.
0
0
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.
0
0
Holehills Rawyards is surrounded by several natural areas perfect for exploration. You can visit Rawyards Wood, a community woodland with paths for walking and wildlife watching. Other nearby woodlands include Wester Moffat and Limerigg. For scenic waters, explore the tranquil Black Loch for a lochside stroll, or the beautiful Fannyside Lochs, which offer walking trails and opportunities for sailing and fishing.
Yes, the area offers various walking and hiking opportunities. Beyond the local woodlands like Rawyards Wood, you can find trails around Strathclyde Loch within Strathclyde Country Park, or explore the paths around Lochend Loch in Drumpellier Park. For more structured routes, you can find numerous hiking trails in the wider region, including easy and moderate options. Discover more routes by visiting the Hiking around Holehills Rawyards guide.
The region boasts a rich history. You can visit Croy Hill Roman Fort, one of the forts along the Antonine Wall, offering historical insights and panoramic views. Another significant historical site is the Blantyreferme World War II Anti-Aircraft Battery, providing a glimpse into wartime defenses. Further afield, Bothwell Castle is a well-preserved medieval stronghold, and the Summerlee, Museum of Scottish Industrial Life in Coatbridge offers an immersive experience of Scotland's industrial past.
Absolutely! Many attractions cater to families. Strathclyde Loch and Lochend Loch both offer easy trails and opportunities for wildlife spotting. The Low Parks Museum in Hamilton features interactive exhibits suitable for children. For more active fun, The Time Capsule in Coatbridge is a waterpark with flumes and an ice skating rink, while World of Wings houses Scotland's largest collection of birds of prey, offering educational talks.
For peaceful lochside experiences, consider Fannyside Lochs, which are adjacent to Palacerigg Country Park and offer tranquil views and walking trails. Lochend Loch, located within Drumpellier Park, is another beautiful spot with gravel paths through woodlands and around the water, perfect for wildlife observation. You can also enjoy a gentle stroll around Black Loch near Limerigg.
The natural areas around Holehills Rawyards are home to diverse wildlife. In Rawyards Wood and around Lochend Loch, you might spot resident and migratory waterfowl, as well as various fungi in autumn. Barons Haugh Nature Reserve in Motherwell is an RSPB site known for its marshland, where you can observe various bird species, deer, and whooper swans, especially vibrant with bluebells in springtime.
The best time to visit for outdoor activities is generally during the spring (April-May) and summer (June-August) months when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while summer offers pleasant conditions for walking and exploring. Autumn (September-October) can also be beautiful with changing foliage, though the weather can be more unpredictable.
Yes, Croy Hill Roman Fort is a notable viewpoint. From its summit, you can enjoy expansive views over the Kilsyth Hills to the north, the Firth of Forth and Fife hills to the east, and Bar Hill fort to the west. Rawyards Wood also offers views over Airdrie.
Yes, there are several routes suitable for gravel biking in the vicinity. You can explore options ranging from easy to difficult, such as the 'Strathclyde Loch – Strathclyde Loch loop' or the 'Pathway to the Canal – Monklands Canal Path loop'. For a comprehensive list and details, refer to the Gravel biking around Holehills Rawyards guide.
Visitors particularly appreciate the natural beauty and tranquility of the area's lochs and woodlands, often highlighting the peaceful atmosphere and opportunities for wildlife spotting. The historical sites are valued for their educational insights and scenic views. Many enjoy the well-maintained trails for walking, cycling, and running, finding them perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle. The community has shared over 25 photos and given more than 70 upvotes, indicating a strong appreciation for the diverse offerings.
Yes, the wider North Lanarkshire region is home to the impressive Falls of Clyde near New Lanark. This site features three spectacular waterfalls, including the 27-meter-high Corra Linn, offering a dramatic natural spectacle.
To delve into Scotland's industrial past, visit the Summerlee, Museum of Scottish Industrial Life in Coatbridge. This museum allows visitors to experience a heritage tram ride, take a recreated mine tour, and explore various exhibitions showcasing the region's industrial history.


Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions: