South Lanarkshire is rich with quaint, characterful villages scattered across its beautiful green valleys.
While the area is also home to larger towns such as Hamilton and East Kilbride, today we’re shining a light on its villages. Many of these historic communities date back hundreds of years and have played a significant role in Scotland’s past.
If you’re based in Glasgow, they make for an ideal day trip—perfect for wandering along old streets and enjoying lunch in a cosy local café.
Here are six charming and beautiful villages to visit in South Lanarkshire in 2026.
1. New Lanark
New Lanark is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located 25 miles south of Glasgow. The picturesque village gives an authentic experience of its heyday in the 1700s when it was created as a purpose-built mill village near the Falls of Clyde. New Lanark is less than an hour from Glasgow. | Visit Lanarkshire
2. Bothwell
Lying on the north bank of the River Clyde, Bothwell's Earls Gate street was named as the West of Scotland's most expensive street in 2021. The gothic Bothwell Castle is a listed building in the area and dates back to the 13th century. Bothwell is located 20 minutes from Glasgow. | Visit Lanarkshire
3. Stonehouse
Visit Lanarkshire describes Stonehouse as "A thriving village nestled in the Avon valley, set in the peaceful surroundings of the countryside and rolling hills. The river Avon is one of the most enduring and beautiful rivers in Scotland and it offers the family an opportunity to see many rare species of wildlife." | Visit Lanarkshire
4. Douglas
Visit Lanarkshire says: "Douglas has historic buildings, medieval character and links to the Cameronian regiment. The rural village on the south bank of the Douglas Water is set in rolling hills and moorland. It is well worth exploring the beauty of the historical buildings and the narrow winding streets of Douglas." | Visit Lanarkshire