Douglas West

Settlement in Lanarkshire

Scotland

Douglas West

Underneath the old railway footbridge near Windrow Wood A view from the course of the former Muirkirk Branch of the Caledonian Railway of the remains of the footbridge shown in <a href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/6916551">NS8129 : Remains of bridge over the former Muirkirk railway</a>

Some of the crumbling masonry from the bridge piers can be seen scattered around. The bridge span is gone but some of the ironwork remains, as can be seen here. — Underneath the old railway footbridge near Windrow Wood Credit: Alan O'Dowd

Douglas West is a small village located in the county of Lanarkshire, Scotland. Situated in the southern part of the country, it lies approximately 40 miles southeast of Glasgow and 70 miles southwest of Edinburgh. The village is nestled within a rural landscape, surrounded by rolling hills and farmland, offering residents a tranquil and picturesque setting.

Historically, Douglas West was primarily an agricultural community, with farming being the main occupation for its inhabitants. Over the years, the village has seen some development, including the establishment of a primary school, a church, and a few local businesses. However, it has managed to retain its quaint charm and close-knit community spirit, making it an attractive place for those seeking a slower pace of life.

The village benefits from its proximity to the nearby town of Lanark, which provides residents with access to a wider range of amenities, including shops, restaurants, and healthcare facilities. Additionally, the surrounding countryside offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and fishing.

Although modest in size, Douglas West has a rich history and is known for its connections to the Douglas family, one of Scotland's most prominent noble families. The nearby Douglas Castle, which dates back to the 14th century, serves as a reminder of the area's historical significance.

Overall, Douglas West offers a peaceful and idyllic lifestyle within a close community, making it an appealing place for those seeking a rural retreat in the heart of Lanarkshire.

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Douglas West Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 55.558359/-3.870809 or Grid Reference NS8230. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Underneath the old railway footbridge near Windrow Wood

A view from the course of the former Muirkirk Branch of the Caledonian Railway of the remains of the footbridge shown in NS8129 : Remains of bridge over the former Muirkirk railway Some of the crumbling masonry from the bridge piers can be seen scattered around. The bridge span is gone but some of the ironwork remains, as can be seen here.

Alan O'Dowd

Wind farm landscape on Windrow Hill

These turbines are part of the Hagshaw Hill Wind Farm, Scotland's first wind farm when originally constructed in 1995, and much extended since.

Alan O'Dowd

Wind turbines on Burnt Rig

These turbines (not yet shown on some maps) are part of the Hagshaw Hill Wind Farm, Scotland's first wind farm when originally constructed in 1995, and much extended since.

Alan O'Dowd

Track at Hagshaw Hill Wind Farm

These turbines (some not yet on the map) are part of the Hagshaw Hill Wind Farm, Scotland's first wind farm when originally constructed in 1995, and much extended since, causing the landscape here to be dominated by tracks, turbines and other infrastructure.

Alan O'Dowd

Rifle Range

This was the target area for an old rifle range near Douglas West. This photo was taken on the 31st July 2022.

Rab McMurdo

Scots pines reflected in loch, Douglas Estate

The thaw over the last day or so has left unusual lines of ice or slush in the water.

Alan O'Dowd

Patterns and reflections in loch, Douglas Estate

The thaw over the last day or so has left unusual lines of ice or slush in the water.

Alan O'Dowd

Wind turbines near Douglas

Richard Webb

Windrow Burn

Chris Wimbush

Windrow Cottage

Chris Wimbush

Douglas Water

Looking towards Windrow Cottage on a misty October morning. Scrogtonhead Farm is in the background.

Mary and Angus Hogg

Douglas Water

Looking downstream on a misty October morning.

Mary and Angus Hogg

A Motte Near Douglas

This small mound would have been the site of an old, wooden structure, possibly dating back to the 12th century.

Mary and Angus Hogg

Douglas Cemetery

This well-tended cemetery lies outside the village on the A70. The large cross on the far side is the War Memorial.

Mary and Angus Hogg

Entrance to Townhead Wood

Steven Brown

A70 west of Douglas

Steven Brown

Forest access

Road into Townhead Wood, assuming it survives the open cast onslaught here. A good gate is a wise investment, dumpers hover around rural Lanarkshire in much the same way as flies do in a field of cattle.

Richard Webb