Clydesdale Travel Guide
Get insider tips and recommendations for exploring Clydesdale in Scotland, including top attractions, hiking routes, cultural experiences, food and drink scene, and more.
- Introduction to Clydesdale
- List of Places to Visit in Clydesdale
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Clydesdale
- Best Things to Do in Clydesdale: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Clydesdale
- Food and Drink Scene of Clydesdale
- Where to Stay in Clydesdale: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Clydesdale: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Clydesdale
- Best Time to Visit Clydesdale
- Do’s and Don’ts of Clydesdale
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Clydesdale: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Clydesdale
- Where to Go Next from Clydesdale: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Clydesdale
Clydesdale, located in the South West region of Scotland, is a hidden gem that boasts natural beauty, historical charm, and cultural significance. The area is named after the famous Clydesdale horse breed and is one of the most stunning regions in Scotland. With a blend of breathtaking landscapes, historic attractions, outdoor adventures, and a vibrant food and drink scene, Clydesdale is an ideal destination for all types of travelers.
List of Places to Visit in Clydesdale
Here’s a list of the top places to visit in Clydesdale:
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- New Lanark World Heritage Site
- The Falls of Clyde
- Biggar Museum
- Museum of Lead Mining
- Chatelherault Country Park and Hunting Lodge
- Craignethan Castle
Natural Attractions of Clydesdale: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Tinto Hill
- The Clyde Walkway
- Falls of Dochart
- The Scottish Wildlife Trust’s Craignethan Castle Wildlife Reserve
- Scottish Lowlands and Borders
- Culter Water / Green Lowther Local Nature Reserve
Hiking/Biking Routes of Clydesdale
Clydesdale offers an array of exciting hiking and biking routes for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the best options:
- Tinto Hill Hike
- Clyde Walkway, an 80-mile long scenic walk that goes along the River Clyde
- Culter Fell Trail
Best Things to Do in Clydesdale: Activities and Tours
- Visit Falls of Clyde Wildlife Reserve
- Explore New Lanark World Heritage Site
- Walk the Clyde Walkway
- Enjoy outdoor adventure activities like climbing and golf
Week-Long Itinerary for Clydesdale
Here’s a week-long itinerary for making the most of your visit to Clydesdale:
Day 1: Explore New Lanark World Heritage Site
Day 2: Discover the Falls of Clyde Wildlife Reserve
Day 3: Hike Tinto Hill
Day 4: Visit the Craignethan Castle and Chatelherault Country Park
Day 5: Take a scenic bike ride along the Clyde Walkway
Day 6: Indulge in the food and drink scene - visit local pubs and restaurants
Day 7: Enjoy a day trip to nearby Glasgow city
Food and Drink Scene of Clydesdale
Clydesdale offers a rich culinary scene with traditional dishes and drinks that you must try:
Must-Try Dishes
- Scottish Salmon
- Haggis
- Porridge
- Cranachan
Local Beverages
- Whiskey (try a local Clydesdale whiskey)
- Scottish Ale
Where to Stay in Clydesdale: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Clydesdale offers a range of comfortable accommodations for travelers, ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Recommended options include:
- New Lanark Mill Hotel
- The Bield B&B
- Shieldhill Castle Hotel
- Riverside Lodge Gardens
What to Buy in Clydesdale: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Scottish Whiskey
- Tartan cloth and kilts
- Hand-made pottery and ceramics
Local Culture and Customs of Clydesdale
The people of Clydesdale have a strong sense of pride and tradition, and they are known for their friendly hospitality, especially towards visitors. It’s customary to greet locals with a warm smile and a ‘hello’.
Best Time to Visit Clydesdale
Clydesdale can be visited year-round, but the summer months (June-August) offer the best weather for outdoor activities. Spring and fall are also great seasons to visit as the area is less crowded, and the foliage is at its peak. Winter can also be a magical time to visit, with snowy landscapes and cozy cafes.
Do’s and Don’ts of Clydesdale
Do:
- Respect the local culture and customs
- Explore the natural beauty of Clydesdale
- Try the local cuisine
Don’t:
- Litter or harm the environment
- Show disrespect towards the local culture and customs
- Overstay your visa or violate local laws
Safety and Health
Safety in Clydesdale
Clydesdale is a relatively safe destination; however, travelers should take basic precautions to ensure a safe trip, such as locking doors and windows and being aware of their surroundings.
Health in Clydesdale
Clydesdale has public health facilities and hospitals that offer quality care. Travelers should have travel health insurance and take necessary vaccinations before their visit.
Getting to Clydesdale: Transportation Options and Logistics
Clydesdale can be accessed through various transportation options, including:
Airports Near Clydesdale
- Glasgow International Airport
- Edinburgh Airport
Bus Stations Near Clydesdale
- Lanark Bus Station
- Biggar Bus Station
Other Options
- Train stations in nearby cities like Glasgow and Edinburgh
- Car rentals
How to Get Around in Clydesdale
Clydesdale is a relatively small area, and most attractions can be easily accessed on foot or by bicycle. However, car rentals are available for those who prefer to drive.
Where to Go Next from Clydesdale: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Glasgow
- Edinburgh
- Isle of Arran
- Stirling
Conclusion
Clydesdale promises an unforgettable experience with its stunning scenery, vibrant culture, and exciting outdoor adventures. The area offers something for everyone, from history buffs to adventure seekers. Whether you’re looking to hike a hill, taste local cuisine, or explore the rich culture, Clydesdale has it all. Plan your trip today!
