Clyde Valley Woodlands National Nature Reserve, Nature reserve in South Lanarkshire, Scotland
Clyde Valley Woodlands National Nature Reserve consists of six separate woodland sites along the River Clyde in South Lanarkshire, stretching across deep gorges and natural forest landscapes shaped by tributaries. The reserve protects mixed woodland with varied terrain ranging from steep banks to wooded valleys.
The reserve began in 1981 with the protection of Cleghorn Glen and expanded in 2007 to include four additional woodland sites. This growth reflected growing efforts to safeguard the river valley's natural habitats.
At Jerviswood near Cleghorn Glen, locals gather birch twigs during Lanark Lanimers celebrations to uphold traditional community land rights. This practice ties the town to the surrounding woodland and reinforces its connection to the place.
Two visitor centers at Chatelherault Country Park and Falls of Clyde Reserve offer facilities and easy access to walking trails throughout the woodland areas. Most paths are well-marked and allow visitors to explore at their own pace.
Hamilton High Parks contains ancient Cadzow oaks that support beetle species found nowhere else in the region. These rare insects depend entirely on these old trees, making this section scientifically important.
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