A delightfully maturing family park, surrounded by the Southern Uplands and handily located…
Our View
Founded in 1785, New Lanark became well known in the early 19th century as a model community managed by enlightened industrialist and educational reformer Robert Owen. Close to the Falls of Clyde, this unique world heritage site explores the philosophies of Robert Owen, using theatre, interactive displays, and the 'Annie McLeod Experience', a magical ride through history. The village is also home to the Scottish Wildlife Trust's Falls of Clyde Reserve. There is a wide variety of exciting, fun and educational events every year. A roof garden and viewing platform provide a bird's eye view of this historic village and the surrounding woodland.
Facilities – at a glance
Refreshments
Features
- Suitable for children of all ages
- Parking onsite
- Cafe
- Facilities: Ramps, disabled parking, wheelchairs
- Accessible toilets
- Open all year
- Opening Times: Open all year daily, Apr-Oct 10-5; Nov-Mar 10-4. Closed 25 Dec & 1 Jan
Also in the area
About the area
Discover South Lanarkshire
South Lanarkshire offers some of Scotland’s best days out, with country parks, museums, activity centres, historic sites and walking trails to choose from.
Many of the area’s museums are a window into the county’s industrial heritage, the biggest claim to fame being New Lanark. Glasgow philanthropist David Dale first developed a cotton manufacturing plant and settlement at New Lanark in 1786, harnessing the power of the River Clyde as it roars over spectacular waterfalls. His son-in-law Robert Owen purchased the village in 1799. A pioneer of social reform, over the next two decades he established a Utopian society here – a model community with improved conditions for the workers and their families, complete with a school (with the first day nursery and playground in the world, it’s claimed), institute for adult education and co-operative village store. The site has been restored and added to UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites for visitors to learn about its history.
You should certainly muster your remaining energy for the walk upstream to the three waterfalls known as the Falls of Clyde. The deep gorge was inaccessible before David Dale saw the potential of the area, and the natural power that the water could provide.
Nearby stays
Places to Stay
Dining nearby
Restaurants and Pubs
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