For a town who has previously been at the mercy of industry, modern Coatbridge now offers its
residents a large choice of activities to choose from. Whether your interests lie in architecture, sport
or music, Coatbridge has something for everyone.

Those who are more active may enjoy the Time Capsule, a leisure complex based around a
prehistoric theme. As well as several swimming pools and flumes, the Time Capsule also offers a
gym and an ice rink. For those who like activities in the outdoors Coatbridge is home to
Drumpellier golf course and Drumpellier Country Park which offer numerous options of
entertainment. Visitors are able to watch different sporting activities as Coatbridge is home to
Albion Rovers Football Club and Drumpellier Cricket Club

For those who are more concerned with preserving energy, the Showcase Leisure Park is home to a
multiplex theatre and 10 pin bowling lane as well as a numerous selection of restaurants. For those
who don't want to see Hollywood blockbusters, the annual Deep Fried Film Festival offers the pick
of Scottish film makers. Visiting Summerlee Heritage Park is a fun and informative day out where
the whole family can learn about Coatbridge's industrial past. The Quadrant shopping centre offers
many opportunities for retail therapy and bars such as La Ronde frequently host live music events.

Live music can also be witnessed in Coatbridge's famous St Patrick's Day Festival. Sponsored by
Guinness and the Irish Government this festival which celebrates the huge Irish element of the
town's history, through song, dance, lectures and film. Cumulating in a day long street-party, the
festival is famed for its anti-Sectarian message.

Photographers may be keen to capture the varied aspects of Coatbridge's architecture which ranges
from Brutalist to Gothic. From B-Listed churches to late twentieth century monoliths, the
architecture in this Lanarkshire town is a varied and chequered as it history.

With excellent public transport links to the rest of the county and the natural beauty of wild
Scotland on its doorstep, Coatbridge truly offers a multitude of things to do.

© Ciaran Mackie 2009