Lesmahegow to Bothwell-18 miles

It was a strange start to this morning as I set out on the road. Firstly I expected it to be much brighter than it was. Instead the sky was black with drizzle in a strong westerly breeze. The other thing that was different from my expectations was the distance I would have to walk. I had thought it would be 13 miles and it turned out to be 18. I threaded my way through small villages and was by now on the outskirts of Greater Glasgow which could be seen in the distance from the advantage point of the hills. Down green leafy lanes  I walked to a crossing point that took me over the River Clyde to pick up the Clyde river walkway. This trail follows  the river into the city centre. I was going as far as Bothwell which is 13 miles from the centre. The woodlands were full of Bluebells and in the sandy river bank Sand Martins nested and flew up and the river to catch flies. As I drew near Bothwell I passed Strathclyde Loch where rowers trained and joggers jogged.Geese  by the side of the Loch protected their young and I had to fend one of with my map. I was glad to reach my destination and have a roast lunch and a pint of Guinness.