Lanarkshire Travel Guide

Scotland
Bothwell Castle which includes heritage elements, a castle and heritage architecture
Lanarkshire is a scenic region of Scotland, home to two of the country’s five UNESCO world heritage sites. Situated between Glasgow and Edinburgh, the area combines rural seclusion with the hustle and bustle of historic market towns like Biggar and East Kilbride. History enthusiasts will relish learning about Lanarkshire’s central role in the industrial history of Scotland. The multi-award-winning New Lanark World Heritage Site is a fascinating example of a development with truly global significance. Robert Owen’s utopian project improved the life of workers in the area’s cotton industry with a variety of enlightened benefits and innovative housing schemes. Lanarkshire is also the perfect place for family holidays – enjoy superb days out at Airdrie Park and the idyllic Colzium Lennox Estate in Kilsyth.

Landmarks in Lanarkshire

Along with the New Lanark World Heritage Site, the Antonine Wall in North Lanarkshire has also received this prestigious award. The structure dates from 142AD and was designed to mark the northern frontier of the Roman Empire learn about the impact of the Romans in this part of Scotland on a walking tour.

For a thrilling day out head to M&D's Theme Park in Strathclyde Country Park where you can test your nerves on the corkscrew twists of the formidable Tsunami, Scotland’s only inverted rollercoaster. Cultural landmarks include Brownsbank Cottage, former home of the poet Hugh MacDiarmid, and the Leadhills Miners Library, the oldest subscription library in the British Isles.

Lanarkshire Museums and Galleries

Many visitors to Scotland are fascinated by ancestry and history Lanarkshire is full of museums, galleries and sites of historic interest for travellers keen to learn about the region’s history. Step inside about 300 years of Lanarkshire farming at National Museum of Rural Life in East Kilbride. This working replica of a 1950’s farm has beautiful livestock including huge Clydesdale horses that will delight the kids.

Meet Scotland’s most famous explorer at the David Livingstone Centre in Blantyre where the items and exhibits document his life and work, and provide an insight into 19th century Scotland. East Kilbride Arts Centre is a good place to see local artworks, with vibrant events and exhibitions on throughout the year. For young children a visit to the Biggar Puppet Theatre will make for a super fun day out.

Lanarkshire Shopping, Restaurants and Nightlife

Lanarkshire is a great place to look for unique gifts and souvenirs, with many farm shops, craft studios and independent boutiques dotted around the region. For those with a sweet tooth, try some homemade tablet in Biggar afterwards indulge in the fragrant scents of Lanark’s florists and tasty treats inside locally run shops. Listen for the ping of the oven as fresh baking is laid out at one of the region’s many fine bakeries.

Hearty Scottish meals are served in Lanarkshire’s many pubs and restaurants too, while quality cafes and traditional tearooms will warm you up on a winter's day. The region has one of the most diverse culinary landscapes in the UK, with everything from Clyde Valley tomatoes to locally made blue cheese on the menu. Enjoy a lively drink and banter from the locals in a friendly Lanarkshire pub to complete your stay.

New Lanark World Heritage Site

Discover the history of New Lanark at this attraction, a reminder of Scotland’s place as a pioneer of equality for workers. New Lanark ushered in a model for industrial communities that was to spread across the world in the 19th and 20th centuries, and today it provides a space for woollen yarn production. A must-see attraction, which boasts a great visitor centre and a mill shop for souvenirs.

Whether you are holidaying in Scotland with the kids or doing some solo travel, Lanarkshire is a great place to call in on your stay.

Popular cities in Lanarkshire

Lanark
Lanark
Known for Friendly people, Historical and Rivers
Get away to quaint Lanark! Enjoy the history, riverfront and culture.
Hamilton
Hamilton
Known for Friendly people, Theatres and Castle
Explore Hamilton: its theatre, castle, ruins and more!
Biggar
Biggar
Known for Friendly people, Countryside and Coffee
Quaint Biggar is calling! Discover its countryside, coffee, island views and more.
Carluke
Carluke
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Experience relaxing Carluke: its dining, spas, sports and more!