Bothwell Castle car park warning

Anyone who wishes to enjoy a walk round the wider area is being asked to go by foot as the parking places are now off-limits.

This is of course due to Government legislation over social distancing.

The move – thought to be sparked in part by complaints from members of the public – mirrors that taken by North Lanarkshire Council in regard to Strathclyde Park.

The area grabbed national headlines last month after hordes of motorists flocked to the beauty spot before a crackdown took place.

A HES spokesman explained: “All of our sites, including Bothwell Castle, are currently closed.

“We are asking the public to follow Government advice by staying at home where possible, avoiding unnecessary travel to any of our sites and adhering to social distancing guidelines.

“Our staff, in line with government guidance, are not available on site for support or to enforce any car park closures.

“We will continue to monitor and review the situation with partners and the local community, and look forward to welcoming visitors back to the site when we are able to reopen in the future.”

Meanwhile, police issued a fresh warning over the weekend in regard to driving to parkland – when they should either be walking or cycling there .

Deputy Chief Constable Malcolm Graham said: “We have increased focused patrols in these areas as well as in town centres and city centres across Scotland.

“If you are out and about, officers may ask you why.”

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