Lanarkshire Heritage Tour

New Lanark, Falls of Clyde, Douglas & Bothwell

Lanarkshire is one of those places that quietly shows off. It’s packed with big Scottish history, unexpectedly beautiful river scenery, and the kind of heritage sites that feel genuinely lived-in rather than polished for postcards. This private day tour from Glasgow or Edinburgh takes you through some of the region’s finest highlights, from a UNESCO-listed mill village to medieval ruins beside the River Clyde, with a comfortable pace and plenty of time to enjoy each stop.

We begin at New Lanark, a beautifully preserved 18th-century mill village and one of Scotland’s most important industrial heritage sites. It’s a fascinating place to explore, not just for the buildings, but for the story: New Lanark became famous for the social reforms introduced by Robert Owen, whose ideas on education and workers’ welfare were well ahead of their time.

You’ll have time to walk through the village and explore the visitor experience at your own pace or perhaps stroll down to the nearby Falls of Clyde, a dramatic series of waterfalls set within a scenic gorge.

New Lanark: UNESCO World Heritage Mill Village

Next, we travel to the village of Douglas to visit St Bride’s Church, a quiet but deeply historic site. This is closely associated with Sir James Douglas, “the Black Douglas,” one of Robert the Bruce’s most trusted allies during the Wars of Independence.

The church and surrounding grounds offer a powerful sense of connection to medieval Scotland, and your guide will share the story of the Douglas family and why this place still matters in Scotland’s national narrative.

Tour Details

Duration: Full-day (7-8 hours)
Departure From: Glasgow or Edinburgh
Group Size: Private tour for up to 7 guests
Cost: £695
Includes:
- Private driver-guide
- Comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
- Bottled water and local snacks
Not Included: Lunch and entry fees (to allow flexibility and choice)

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St Bride’s Church, Douglas: Medieval Scotland Up Close

No Lanarkshire day out is complete without something sweet, so we stop at the Tunnock’s Tearoom in Uddingston, near the famous factory. It’s a great place to relax over lunch or a cuppa, and yes, there will be opportunities for Tunnock’s Teacakes and Caramel Wafers (it would be rude not to).

It’s a warm, classic Scottish stop that visitors tend to love, and locals secretly love just as much.

Tunnock’s Tearoom, Uddingston: A Proper Scottish Treat

We finish at Bothwell Castle, one of Scotland’s most impressive medieval castle ruins, overlooking the River Clyde. Built in the 13th century, it played an important role during the Wars of Independence and remains a striking example of medieval architecture, especially the great circular tower and red sandstone walls.

You’ll have time to explore the ruins, enjoy the views, and soak in the atmosphere of a place that has seen centuries of conflict, power shifts, and Scottish resilience.