We set out to explore the history of East Kilbride through some of its most notable landmarks — places that generations of local people are likely to have visited, experienced or fondly remembered.
East Kilbride became Scotland’s first designated new town in May 1947 and has since built a rich and fascinating history. The South Lanarkshire town has also produced a number of well-known names, including Roddy Frame, Ally McCoist, Lorraine Kelly, and brothers Jim and William Reid of The Jesus and Mary Chain.
In this article, we celebrate what it means to be from EK by highlighting 14 quintessential experiences and landmarks that capture the character, heritage and spirit of the town.
Here are 14 things every true East Kilbride local has done at least once.
1. Learned to swim at the Dolan Baths
The Dolan Baths was designed by Alexander Buchanan Campbell and named after former Lord Provost Sir Patrick Dollan. The building was opened in 1968 as Scotland's first 50-metre swimming pool. | East Kilbride Development Corporation, courtesy of South Lanarkshire Council
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2. Went for a walk through Calderglen to St Leonard's
Visitors go to the waterfall or the playpark, locals use the paths through Calderglen as a walking route at weekends. | Visit Scotland
3. Completed a circuit of the shopping centre
Growing up in East Kilbride, completing a loop of the town centre was considered a form of entertainment. What to do when you've walked round the whole centre? Turn round and do it in the opposite direction. | East Kilbride Shopping Centre
4. Had a pint at the Monty
The Montgomerie Arms is an East Kilbride institution and is one of the original coaching inns, dating back to 1656. Many people in East Kilbride will have had their first pint here. | Google Maps