Cartland Craigs facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Cartland Craigs |
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| known locally as Cartland Crags | |
Sign at the Cartland Bridge entrance to the reserve.
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 Cartland Craigs
Location in South Lanarkshire
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| Location | South Lanarkshire, Scotland, United Kingdom |
| Nearest city | Lanark |
| Area | 10.29 hectares |
| Established | 1953: Cartland Craigs is notified as a Site of Special Scientific Interest 1987: Cartland Craigs is declared a part of the Clyde Valley Woodlands National Nature Reserve |
| Governing body | Scottish Natural Heritage |
Cartland Craigs (also known as Cartland Crags) is a beautiful woodland area located near the town of Lanark in South Lanarkshire, Scotland. It's a special place that's part of a bigger group of woodlands called the Clyde Valley Woodlands. This amazing natural spot is looked after to protect its plants, animals, and history.
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What is Cartland Craigs?
Cartland Craigs is a wonderful forest that's officially recognized as a national nature reserve. This means it's a very important natural area. It's one of six special woodlands that make up the Clyde Valley Woodlands. The other five areas are Cleghorn Glen, Falls of Clyde, Chatelherault, Nethan Gorge, and Mauldslie Woods.
Exploring the Woodlands
Cartland Craigs is right next to another woodland called Cleghorn Glen. Cartland Craigs is the smaller of the two. You can walk between them easily. Their footpaths connect to create a long walk that's about 4.5 kilometers (about 2.8 miles) in total. It's a great place for a hike!
Famous Bridges and Old Forts
When you visit, you'll see some interesting landmarks. The impressive Cartland Bridge is located at the main entrance to the reserve from the Lanark side. There's also the Moose Bridge, which connects Cartland Craigs and Cleghorn Glen. As you walk through the woods, you might even spot the old remains of a fort called Castle Qua. Its ancient walls can still be seen from the walking path.
Protecting Nature: The National Nature Reserve
Cartland Craigs became a very important protected area a long time ago. In 1953, it was first named a Site of Special Scientific Interest. This means it has special plants, animals, or geology that need to be protected. Later, in 1987, it became part of the Clyde Valley Woodlands National Nature Reserve. This helps make sure the woodland stays healthy for future generations.
Who Looks After Cartland Craigs?
The reserve is carefully managed by an organization called Scottish Natural Heritage. They work hard to protect the wildlife and natural beauty of Cartland Craigs. Their job is to make sure that this special woodland remains a safe home for its plants and animals, and a great place for people to visit and learn about nature.
