The best walks and hikes around Old Monkland

Yes, the area is very well-suited for families. Many trails, especially within Drumpellier Country Park, are on accessible paths suitable for prams and little legs. For a very short and easy walk, consider the Country Park loop from Espieside, which is just over a mile long.

Absolutely. The parks and trails in the area are very popular with dog walkers. Drumpellier Country Park is a great choice, offering wide open spaces and woodland paths. As always, please keep your dog under control, especially around wildlife and other park users, and follow any local signage regarding leads.

Yes, many of the best routes in Old Monkland are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same place without retracing your steps. A great example that explores the woodlands and lochs is the Country Park loop from Springhill.

For access to the main network of trails, the best option is Drumpellier Country Park. It has a large, free car park conveniently located near the visitor centre, cafe, and the start of many popular routes.

Many trails are accessible via train. Several routes start near stations like Coatbridge Sunnyside and Coatbridge Central, making it easy to arrive by public transport. For example, the Country Park loop from Coatbridge Central begins just a short walk from the station.

The North Calder Heritage Trail is a longer route that follows the path of the Monkland Canal and the North Calder Water. It's a journey through the area's industrial past, marked by information boards detailing former ironworks and historic estates. The trail offers a mix of scenery, from urban sections to quiet woodlands and waterways.

Yes, if you're starting your walk in Drumpellier Country Park, there is a cafe located in the Visitor Centre near the main car park. It's a popular spot for a coffee or a bite to eat before or after your hike.

The majority of hikes around Old Monkland are rated as easy to moderate. The terrain is generally flat, especially along the Monkland Canal towpaths and within Drumpellier Country Park. While there are some longer routes, you'll find very few steep climbs, making it an accessible destination for most fitness levels.

The landscape is a unique blend of natural and industrial heritage. You'll hike through woodlands, grasslands, and alongside lochs and the historic Monkland Canal. The area is rich in wildlife; keep an eye out for water birds on the lochs, roe deer in the woods, and various species of dragonflies near the water in summer.

The trails are highly regarded by the komoot community. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, well-maintained paths, particularly along the Monkland Canal. The combination of easy walking, interesting industrial history, and the beautiful scenery of Drumpellier Country Park are frequently mentioned as highlights.

There are over 100 hiking routes to discover around Old Monkland. The collection includes everything from short, easy strolls in the park to more substantial treks along historic canal paths, offering plenty of options for everyone.