New Lanark

A true wonder of the Industrial Revolution, New Lanark inspires those who engage not only with its groundbreaking feats of engineering and architecture but also its ties to social reform. As one of only six UNESCO World Heritage sites in Scotland its international importance cannot be understated.

New Lanark began life in 1786 as a state of the art cotton mill and planned settlement. The living standards and welfare provided by the mill for workers were extraordinary for the time. With innovative water mechanics and architecture New Lanark struck a rare balance between industry and beauty. It soon became internationally famous and continues to attract visitors from the world over.

Its founder, David Dale, was an industrial trail blazer but also a dedicated philanthropist. The village he built for the mill workers now stands as a testament to a much celebrated era known as the Scottish Enlightenment. New Lanark breaths life into a fascinating period in Scottish history which saw enterprising and innovative Scots dominate in the fields such as science, philosophy, and politics.

Today the village and mills are operated by The New Lanark Conservation Trust. The site features a highly-rated visitor centre, restaurants, shops, a 4-star hotel and other accommodations which, combined, make New Lanark a worthy destination.

Explore the cotton mills themselves, including a close look at the machinery which saw Scotland flourish as a nation of manufacturers. Meet the people that drove Scotland into a golden age of industry And re-live over 90 years of history with an interactive experience of the perfectly preserved workers’ accommodations.

Situated only 25 miles south-east of Glasgow it can be a convenient stop en route to Edinburgh or other destinations in the Scottish Borders.