Coatbridge
Coatbridge is situated to the east of the bustling city of Glasgow. This is a region that was once very rich in ironstone and it was as a result of the numerous ironworks that were located here that the town came into existence. Much of the layout of the town that you see today is thanks to the influence of the Baird family who were the owners of one of the largest ironworks in the town. There is much more to this area than simply its industrial heritage though, and these days there is much here for family to enjoy. Those visitors that are interested in the history and heritage of the town will enjoy visiting the Scottish Museum of Industrial Heritage which is located at Summerlea. It caters for all of the family with a number of interactive displays and exhibits.
Things to Do
This is where you will find one of the only working electric trams in the country. Ride it and go down the old coal mine and discover what conditions were like for the miners that worked there. Take a peek inside the period homes to see what it was like to live here during the 19th and the early part of the 20th centuries. There is much more that you can do at the Time Capsule and the attractions here are all very family oriented.
Try your hand at ice skating or enjoy the pools at Waterworld. Ride through steam and tidal waves, bubbling geysers, tranquil canals and refreshing waterfalls. See prehistoric beasts and plant life, and watch out for the volcano all in the comfort of your swimsuit. If all of this sounds like just a little too much excitement you could always chill out in the sauna and steam rooms for a while.
Places to Visit
Drumpellier Country Park is located just to the west of Coatbridge. This was once a vast private estate, but in 1919 the majority of the grounds and gardens were made into a public park. It became a Country Park in 1984. The grounds are home to two natural and beautiful lochs which attract a broad variety of water birds. The woodlands are rich in native wildlife and are perfect for a spot of exploration. The park has plenty of facilities which cater for all of the family such as a café and adventure playgrounds for the children. You can follow a nature trail through the park or even hire a boat and take it out onto the loch.
A wander around the peace garden can help you to clear you head and for those looking to take an active part in the life of the park there are a number of events held throughout the year as part of the Country Rangers Service. For those looking for sporting activities the Time Capsule is where you should head to. This is a swimming and leisure complex with a difference, with rides and slides for all of the family and all levels of swimming ability.
