Descrizione
The Monkland Canal offers a unique blend of industrial heritage and thriving biodiversity, making it an excellent birding destination. The area combines canal sections (including watered stretches near Drumpellier Country Park and Calderbank) with woodland edges, wetlands, and urban green spaces.
Key features include: Drumpellier Country Park (1): Features Lochend Loch (2) and Woodend Loch (3), both supporting wetland birds and rare plants. Canal towpaths: Linear habitats with scrub and trees, ideal for spotting birds like Cigno reale and Martin pescatore. Woodland margins: Drumpellier woods (4) attract Ciuffolotto and Cardellino during breeding seasons. The canal (5) supports surprising wildlife, including otter in Woodend Loch.
In winter Moretta and Cigno reale frequent the canal. Water vole sightings (a mammal, but notable for habitat health) are reported. In spring and summer Martin pescatore and Ciuffolotto thrive in woodland edges. Cardellino and migratory birds like Poiana appear.
Dettagli
Accesso
The Monkland Canal is located in Coatbridge, North Lanarkshire and is easily accessible by car, bike, or public transport. By Car: Parking is available at Drumpellier Country Park, which provides good access to the canal. Limited street parking is also available near various entry points. Press P on the map for directions to a parking spot.
Public Transport: There are several train stations, including Coatbridge Central (6) and Blairhill Train Station (7), both within walking distance of the canal. Local buses also serve the area.
The area has well-maintained paths and proximity to Drumpellier Country Park’s visitor center.
Terreno e habitat
Zona umida , Foresta , Alberi e cespugli sparsi , Prateria/pascolo , FiumeCaratteristiche dell’area
Terreno piano , Paludoso , ScivolosoPercorso ad anello
SiÈ utile un cannocchiale?
NoBuona stagione per il BW
Tutto l'annoMiglior periodo per visitare
PrimaveraPercorso
Strada asfaltata , Strada sterrataGrado di difficoltà del percorso a piedi
FacileModalità di accesso
A piedi , Bicicletta , Sedia a rotelleCapanno/torretta di osservazione
NoInformazioni aggiuntive
Historical context: Walk along a Scheduled Monument with remnants of 18th-century engineering.
Community engagement: Groups like the Friends of Monklands Canal highlight recent path improvements and wildlife sightings.
For a day trip, combine birding with visits to Summerlee Museum (industrial heritage) or the Crannog play area.
