Cambuslang to Chatelherault and Larkhall circuit

Starting at Cambuslang Park and Ride, we head east along the Clyde to Newton on NCN 75. From there because of a road closure we follow the diversion to reconnect with NCN 75 on Blantyre Farm Road. From there we take NCN 75 / 74 to Uddingston and Bothwell, and on to Strathclyde Country Park. We leave the Park and pick-up NCN 74 to Chatelherault where we will stop at the cafe. After the stop, we continue on NCN 74 to Larkhall and on to the Avon Gorge. From there we take minor roads through Quarter, Limekilnburn and Auchentibber to High Blantyre and head back to Cambuslang through East Kilbride Golf Club / Nerston Village
Please be aware that we will averaging about 10mph. This is not the route for you if you are looking for a faster road ride.

I describe this as a leisure ride. It makes use of cycle paths as much as possible but there are significant road sections. It takes us out to Chatelherault Country Park, going through Uddingston, Bothwell and Strathclyde Country Park, and on to Larkhall, much of which is on cycle paths. We then head for Quarter, on to High Blantyre and back to Cambuslang through Nerston Village, mostly on minor roads. The average speed on the move will be about 10 mph. You can view the route here https://ridewithgps.com/routes/50313522

The outward route to Larkhall uses NCN 75 and 74 for much of the route. There is currently a diversion at Newton which goes along Hamilton Road to Blantyre. After Larkhall, much of the route is minor roads although there is a short section along the A723. We have to cross the Avon Gorge after Larkhall and there is a steep climb after crossing the river.

The ride heads out to Chatelherault Country Park where we will stop at the café which has toilets. https://www.slleisureandculture.co.uk/info/114/chatelherault_country_park If anyone sees something they'd like to stop and look at, we'll stop.

This is Scotland and as we all know, the weather can be ‘variable’. Please check the forecast before leaving and come prepared. If the weather looks to be really terrible, the ride is likely to be cancelled.

First-timers are welcome but please check the anticipated cycle speed.