The Clyde Walkway

The Clyde Walkway is some 40miles/65 km long, running between Partick in Glasgow and New Lanark in South Lanarkshire. It was created as a joint enterprise by the Glasgow City, South Lanarkshire, and North Lanarkshire Councils. Unlike other long distance paths it is close to urban centres with easy access to public transport, but even so good walking boots and suitable clothing is recommended.

The route begins in the bustling heart of the city and ends in a spectacular gorge complete with waterfalls. Its western terminus was once one of the busiest ports in the British Empire and its second city. Its eastern terminus is the New Lanark World Heritage Site, and there are a great number of places of interest to explore along the way. Those interested in very long walks can link the Glasgow end with the West Highland Way by using the Kelvin Walkway to Milngavie.

Stage descriptions	Length	Time	Done
1: Glasgow to Cambuslang	14.5km	3½-4 hours
2: Cambuslang to Strathclyde Loch	17.5km	4½-5 hours
3: Strathclyde Loch to Maudslie	12.5km	3-4 hours
4: Maudslie Bridge to New Lanark	13.5km	3-4 hours
5: Falls of Clyde and New Lanark	6km	1½-2 hours

THE CHALLENGE

The route is partially waymarked and offers generally straightfoward walking. Paths can be muddy in places and many sections are unmarked, although the route is still being improved. In winter some sections can flood but an alternative is available.