Ardoch, Netherton

Explorer Tom Whitelee's visitor centre looks out over a hillside where the wind has been given two hundred and fifteen enormous dance partners. On Eaglesham Moor near Glasgow, the turbines turn an everyday Scottish complaint into electricity. The visitor centre is a good place to begin: it explains what the machines do before you go out and realise how tall they are. Whitelee first began producing power in 2008 with 140 turbines. Later additions brought the number to 215, with a stated capacity of 539 megawatts. The site's tracks now run for more than 130 kilometres, used by walkers, cyclists and horse riders as well as maintenance crews. Exhibits in the centre are hands-on, and guided bus tours can take you nearer the turbines. I will not pretend one of these giants whispered its secrets to me; they make more of a steady mechanical hum. The moor also has open views and wildlife, so you can choose a short look from the centre or a longer outing on the marked tracks. Bring layers: a place chosen for its strong wind is unlikely to protect your hairstyle. Keep clear of working areas and use the visitor routes; the machines are industrial equipment, however elegant they look against the sky. Entry to the visitor centre and parking are free. It currently opens daily from ten until five, with a café that closes earlier; walking and cycling access to the wider site is available beyond the centre's hours. Check conditions and any tour booking before going, especially in high winds or poor visibility. Whitelee will let you see power being made, then send you home with a new respect for a breezy day.