Forest bathing at Mauldslie Woods

Mauldslie Woods are one of the six sites of the Clyde Valley Woodlands National Nature Reserve, but they feel different from the deep gorges upstream. The valley is more open and the slopes gentler. The woods were cleared and replanted in the 1800s and part was once an orchard, so there are many parkland trees over 200 years old alongside broadleaved woodland and a few remnants of larch and spruce. The council is restoring native woodland and planting new trees.

Start at the information board on the east side of Mauldslie Bridge and follow the Clyde Walkway downstream; the route climbs over a spur through West Brownlee Wood. Paths are well surfaced but steep in places and can be muddy after rain. With its shallower slopes it is one of the gentler walks in the reserve, and the old trees are good company for a slow pace.