Lanark: Market Town History and Routes in the Clyde Valley

Lanark brings together visible traces of its history with routes through parks and the Clyde Valley. The remains of St Kentigern’s Church, boundary traditions and several circular and themed trails offer different perspectives: you can focus on the historic market town or make your stay more about nature and outdoor activities.

Church Ruins, Museum and Living Traditions

St Kentigern’s Church was built in the 13th century; the remains of the church survive. Tradition associates it with William Wallace’s meeting and marriage to Marion Braidfute. This brings together tangible evidence of a 13th-century building and a story passed down about Wallace. At the Royal Burgh of Lanark Museum, a collection illustrates Lanark’s long and varied history. Its first exhibition opened in spring 1991; exhibitions have been held every year since. If you plan to visit the museum, check the current exhibitions separately.

The Lanimers also have a historical origin: they developed from Lanark’s annual duty to inspect the boundary stones. The Perambulation of the Marches dates back to 1752. Lanimer Day traditionally falls on the Thursday between 6 and 12 June. So in Lanark you’ll encounter both a long-standing custom and a tradition whose origins are linked to a specific task for the town. Check the dates for the year of your trip.

Circular Walks in Town and Destinations in the Clyde Valley

The Lanark Heritage Trail is a good option for a walk through the historic market town. It starts at Lanark Train Station; as the published starting point may change, check the latest route information before setting off. The Stey Brae offers a different perspective on Lanark: this footpath is used year-round and has views over the Mouse Valley below. There is also a path around Lanark Loch. In Castlebank Park, the Wildflower & Tree Trail leads through the park. These routes offer different experiences: historic town, valley views, a walk around the loch or a themed trail through the park.

From Lanark, you can enter Clyde Valley Woodlands NNR at Leitchford Bridge and take a circular route along paths and minor roads. The 65 km Clyde Walkway also runs along the river in the surrounding area; it connects Glasgow city centre with the Falls of Clyde at New Lanark. This route is on a different scale from a walk around Lanark. Check the trail conditions before setting off. Cartland Craigs adds to the scenic highlights: this wooded gorge is one of the most dramatic in the Clyde Valley.

Plan Your Stay Around What Matters to You

If you mainly want to experience the market town, its history and the routes within Lanark, you can focus your holiday rental search on Lanark as your base. If you also want to include a longer route in the Clyde Valley in your plans, take the route conditions and the distance you have in mind into account. This gives you the option of a town walk or a longer riverside route, without having to commit to just one way of exploring.

Another option for an active stay is Lanark - Lifestyles, which has a 25 m swimming pool and a hydrotherapy pool. Availability and operating arrangements can change; check these details before your visit. This means activities range from outdoor trails to swimming. Which holiday rental in Lanark is right for your trip depends on whether you want to focus on culture, walks, scenery or include this visit as well.

More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Blantyre, Abington, East Kilbride, Strathaven, Carluke, Carstairs, Lesmahagow, Leadhills.

For the wider travel overview: South Lanarkshire.