What to see and where in Strathclyde and Ayrshire

During the winter there are lots of places that you can go to get outdoors and enjoy whatever the weather. Here are a few of our suggestions:

Baron’s Haugh nature reserve, Motherwell

Winter is a great time to visit this nature reserve - the resident birdlife is joined by flocks of wintering ducks including wigeon    and whooper swans  . They come to feed on the flooded meadows. You can spend time in one of the four bird hides, looking out at the ducks and swans on the Haugh (wetland), or take a walk through the woods. If you're lucky you may even see a kingfisher    or an otter    on the river Clyde. The reserve bounded on the north by the town of Motherwell and to the south by the River Clyde and so is easily accessible using public transport. You'll be able to see a wide variety of habitats and wildlife in a relatively small area. Most paths are suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs, but may be muddy in bad weather and are steep in places. For more information about the reserve and how to get there go to the web site   

Eglinton Country Park, Irvine

Eglinton Country Park is a good place for walking, horse riding, fishing on the lochside or simply watching the world go by. There are also organised events run by the Countryside Rangers right through the year. Explore the parkland paths, riverside walkways, woodland, open hill or loch shore. You can take a refreshing walk in the rain and splash through some muddy puddles or gently stroll to a special view point.  There's a free electric scooter hire scheme for visitors with mobility problems, as well as a range of special needs cycles. To book in advance, call 01294 551776. For youngsters and 'oldsters' alike try out the new large all ability play area near the Visitor Centre. For more information about the Country Park and how to get there please visit their web site    

Pollok Country Park, Glasgow

Pollok Park is rich in wildlife and history. It's part of the Old Pollok Estate, once home to the Maxwell Family. Today you can enjoy a walk through its extensive woodlands and gardens. During the winter months watch out for large flocks of Redwing, searching out berries. Maybe you'll be lucky enough to spot a roe deer in the woods or a kingfisher on the river. If not, you're guaranteed to see birds at the Countryside Rangers feeder station at the Old Stable Courtyard. Other attractions include the world famous Burrell Collection  , Pollok House   - now looked after by the National Trust for Scotland, working Clydesdale Horses and an award winning herd of Highland Cattle. For more information about the reserve and how to get there go to the web site  .