Dalzell Estate is situated at the end of Dalzell Drive, close to Fir Park Football Stadium and the North Lanarkshire Civic Centre in Motherwell. It was originally a Royal Hunting Forest owned by the Dalzell family.
They occupied the land from 843 until its sale in 1647 to James Hamilton, a son of the fifth Laird of Orbiston who proceeded to develop the house.
The landscaping of the estate was carried out by Archibald Hamilton in the 18th century, he turned a wilderness area of rather barren land into an orderly and landscaped park, while, at the same time, improving much of the land of the estate for agricultural purposes. Many of the trees planted during this period were varieties introduced from other parts of the British Isles and planted for landscape effect.
Spectacular Scenery at Dalzell Estate
Come and visit this peaceful woodland and encounter some spectacular scenery, heritage monuments such as Dalzell House and Lord Gavin's Temple and perhaps even the ghostly figure of the 'Green Lady'.
You may also be lucky enough to come across a host of wildlife surprises such as woodpeckers or roe deer along with the thriving squirrel population.
The Japanese Gardens were created in the 1920's and are one of the most exotic landscaping features to be found anywhere in Motherwell.
Dalzell House sits on a steep, rocky bank, above the Whinny Burn, about a mile from the centre of Motherwell. The house was restored during the early 1980's and now consists of a number of dwelling houses. A particular room known as the "the Green Lady's Bedroom" is said to be haunted.
The "Green Lady" has a secret passage that leads from the house to the terraced gardens. If you look out you may also see a glimpse of the ghostly figures of the "White Lady" or "Grey Lady" among the trees!
Dalzell Estate is open to the public from dawn to dusk throughout the year.
The nature reserve of Barons Haugh is also close by and a worthwhile visit for the ornithologists amongst us.