
Cleghorn Glen
A challenging woodland hike along the Mouse Water, featuring stunning waterfalls, historical caves, and vibrant flora.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Wildflowers and birdsong abound

Cleghorn Glen
Best Time
Wildflowers and birdsong abound
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A challenging woodland hike along the Mouse Water, featuring stunning waterfalls, historical caves, and vibrant flora.
"A beautiful walk with rewarding views, though be prepared for steep hills and muddy trails!"

👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Trails can be very muddy and boggy. Waterproof hiking boots are essential for comfort and safety.
💧 Restrooms at Start
Utilize the free restrooms at the car park before you begin; there are no facilities on the trail.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Mouse Valley Waterfalls
Along the Mouse Water
Discover numerous charming rapids and cascades tumbling through the woodland. A true natural spectacle.

William Wallace's Cave
Near the hydroplant
Explore a historic cave rumored to be a hiding spot for William Wallace and his men.

Clyde Valley Woodlands
Cleghorn Glen
Wander through mature mixed woodlands with vibrant wildflowers and diverse birdlife.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for a Workout
Parking and Trail Logistics
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Trails can be very muddy and boggy. Waterproof hiking boots are essential for comfort and safety.
💧 Restrooms at Start
Utilize the free restrooms at the car park before you begin; there are no facilities on the trail.
🚶♀️ Linear Walk Ahead
Be prepared for a linear route, meaning you'll retrace your steps back to the start.
💰 Parking Fee
Note that parking at the trailhead is not free. Factor this into your budget.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Trails can be very muddy and boggy. Waterproof hiking boots are essential for comfort and safety.
💧 Restrooms at Start
Utilize the free restrooms at the car park before you begin; there are no facilities on the trail.
🚶♀️ Linear Walk Ahead
Be prepared for a linear route, meaning you'll retrace your steps back to the start.
💰 Parking Fee
Note that parking at the trailhead is not free. Factor this into your budget.
🌸 Spring Wildflowers
Visit in spring for a stunning display of bluebells, wood anemones, and other wild flora.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Cleghorn Glen for its beautiful woodland scenery, numerous waterfalls, and the unique historical element of William Wallace's cave. It's considered a great workout with rewarding views, though the linear nature of the walk and the challenging, often muddy, terrain are noted drawbacks. Parking fees are also a minor point of consideration.
"Very long walk loads of steep hills to walk up and down. Not bad views, maybe I just wasn't in the right spots but we did walk round the whole thing using AllTrails. Would've been over if you can get closer to the waterfalls. None the less it still was good walk/workout and it wasn't too busy for Sunday either. Parking is not free either."
Luke Finlay
"First off, this place is really a functioning hydroplant with amazing technology behind it. There's a spot along one trail that shows a cave area where William Wallace hid with his men for history buffs. This place is absolutely AMAZING - quiet, serene & so many lookouts to view the falls from. I was there on a Monday afternoon and we barely ran into 2 people the whole time. Saw a few people camping in the area as well. It's a moderate trail hike, only a few areas that get steep with some stairs but pretty easy to navigate otherwise. Didn't get to see any wildlife but I can see how there's opportunity to see some. If I lived in Glasgow, I'd do this walk at least 2 days a week. The restroom is free to use at the car park area so make sure you hit that up beforehand since there's no other stops along the trail. Beautiful walk that I'm glad I ended my trip with."
Elle Y
"Small car park located at the beginning of the walk. Climb the steep steps and enjoy the great views. Views of Tinto covered in snow. Really enjoyed our walk albeit very muddy. Lots of nice waterfalls on route. Downside its a linear walk, so need to return the same way. Approx 10 km."
Kim Stevenson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cleghorn Glen is accessible by car, with a small parking area at the trailhead. Some visitors start from Lanark Library and walk to the glen, adding to the distance.
While direct public transport to the glen's trailhead might be limited, Lanark town is served by buses and trains, from where you could potentially walk or arrange local transport.
There is a small car park available at the start of the walk, but it is not free.
Yes, some visitors enjoy starting their walk from Lanark Library, incorporating a longer route through the town and down to the Mouse valley foot path.
The trails are primarily designed for walking and can be steep and uneven, making them less suitable for cycling.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Cleghorn Glen is a natural area and does not typically require tickets for entry. Access is generally free, though parking may incur a fee.
As a natural glen, there are no set opening or closing hours. Visitors can access it during daylight hours.
Entry to Cleghorn Glen itself is free. However, parking at the designated car park is not free.
While there are no official hours, it's best to visit during daylight for safety and to appreciate the scenery.
Visitors are encouraged to stay on marked paths, respect the natural environment, and be aware of the steep terrain.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The terrain is challenging, with many steep hills, inclines, and stairs. Trails can be muddy and boggy, especially after rain.
The walk is approximately 10 km (about 6.3 miles) as a linear route, meaning you return the same way.
Restrooms are available at the car park area at the beginning of the walk, but there are no facilities along the trail itself.
Expect views of the Mouse valley, numerous waterfalls and rapids, mature woodlands, and potentially distant views of Tinto covered in snow.
Dogs are generally welcome in natural areas like Cleghorn Glen, but it's advisable to keep them on a lead, especially due to the steep drops and wildlife.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for viewpoints along the Mouse Water to capture the rapids and waterfalls. The woodland paths also offer beautiful natural light and scenery.
Yes, the combination of water features, woodland, and varied terrain provides excellent opportunities for landscape photography.
Morning light can be beautiful for woodland shots, while afternoon light might be better for capturing the waterfalls. Consider the weather for dramatic effects.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. However, a wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the expansive woodland and a telephoto lens for distant views.
Be mindful of the steep drops and uneven terrain when setting up for photos. Always prioritize your safety and stay on marked paths.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Fitness Enthusiasts
🌿 Nature Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit