Chatelherault Country Park Circuit
Date: 26 March 2023
Leader: David
Grade: C+
Number on walk: 8
Length 11 km. Ascent 280 m.
Hills climbed: None.
From the front of Chatelherault, follow the Deer Park track to the end of the old Avon Bridge. Then take paths along the side of the Avon to Kings Bridge, cross the bridge to Cadzow Castle (ruin) and visit Cadzow oaks. Head south along the west side of Avon Gorge up to Green Bridge and return up the east side of the gorge to the visitors' centre.
Click here for GPX track of the walk
Our group ready to set off at the start of the walk outside the Duke of Hamiton’s hunting lodge
Duke of Hamiton’s hunting lodge
Built by the Duke of Hamilton, with construction starting in 1732. It was named after his French title, Duc de Châtellerault which was granted to James Hamilton, 2nd Earl of Arran in 1548 for his part in arranging the marriage of Mary, Queen of Scots, to Francis, Dauphin of France. Mining subsidence has since caused the whole building to slope, which can be clearly felt when walking across the floors.
Old Avon Bridge
Built before the 16th century, enlarged about the beginning of 18th century and replaced by Telford's bridge in 1820.
Looking back to the Old Avon bridge from the east bank of the River Avon
Avon Mill Weir
This weir supplied water to the Avon mill (now demolished). The 17th-century mill was used for grinding oats, peas, barley and wheat. It was the property of the Duke of Hamilton.
The Cadzow Oaks
These oaks form part of the Oaks meadow on the west bank of the river Avon. They have been dendrochronologically dated back to the mid-15th century, making them approximately 600 years old.
The group relaxing during lunch at the Green Bridge – which isn’t green!