It became the largest producer of tubes in the world. Tubes are still made at the site today. The Forth Clyde Cycle Route continues on to Airdrie along the line of the disused railway. The Trail drops down from the viaduct and goes south, keeping to the former route of the Monkland Canal. A short distance south of the viaduct, on the left hand side of the Trail, are the policy woodlands of Cairnhill Estate .
Paths lead off from the Trail into the woodlands.
Among the species that can be seen are beech, sycamore, Scots pine, oak, lime and chestnut. Further on you come to Sikeside Road. Beyond that is a 4km remnant section of the Monkland Canal , with water still in it. To the east and north of the Canal is Palacecraig. Remnants of this areas mining history are evident along the canal in the form of burn out coal bings.