What to do and see in South Lanarkshire, Scotland: The Best Historic Sites

New Lanark World Heritage Site is internationally famous for its historic buildings, beautiful landscape and over 200 years of social history. The mill village was founded in 1785 by David Dale and Richard Arkwright, and managed for 25 years from 1800 by the pioneering Robert Owen. New Lanark is now recognised as one of Scotland's six UNESCO World Heritage Sites and welcomes over 300,000 site visitors annually. Visitors can explore the history of the village through the New Lanark Visitor Centre and enjoy stunning woodland walks through the Falls of Clyde Wildlife Reserve. The Mill Café serves up a range of delicious food and New Lanark Ice Cream. The Mill Shop offers a delightful range of gifts, Scottish produce and New Lanark Wool which is spun on-site using historic textile machinery. Visitors can even wake up in a World Heritage Site by staying at the New Lanark Mill Hotel, Wee Row Hostel or Self-catering Waterhouses. Please see our website for up-to-date opening hours.

The David Livingstone Centre is currently closed for refurbishment The David Livingstone Trust is under-going an exciting re-development. The £6.1 million Birthplace Project is funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund, Historic Environment Scotland and the Scottish Government. It will see the refurbishment of the exterior of the building, returning it to its original appearance; a new exhibition inside the museum, displaying the many items relating to the iconic Scottish explorer David Livingstone, telling the many perspectives and stories from his travels; and a programme of exciting activities and events. Due to the works being carried out, there will be no access to the museum and facilities until 2019, with some areas of the park still accessible. For more information on accessibility during the works please visit our website. Look out for our pop-up exhibition throughout Scotland over during 2018/2019.

This site is closed for now. We’re working hard to gradually reopen the places you love while making sure the experience is safe for everyone. Bothwell Castle is the largest and finest 13th century stone castle in Scotland, much fought over during the Wars of Independence. Located in a beautiful setting overlooking the River Clyde, part of the original circular keep of Bothwell Castle survives. Find out about medieval Scotland by exploring the 13th century prison tower and the 14th century great hall and chapel.