Autumn is the Perfect Time to Visit Lanarkshire
Summer may be over, but there is no better time to visit Scotland than in the autumn, when the leaves are golden and the natural landscape is at its most striking.
Situated at the heart of Scotland, Lanarkshire is one of the best places to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and take in the wonder of this spectacular season. Surrounded by beautiful Scottish countryside, Lanarkshire offers a world of choice for walkers, cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts, while a wealth of high quality visitor attractions provide fun for all the family. With excellent transport links to Edinburgh and Glasgow, as well as being a short drive north of the border, Lanarkshire provides the perfect location either for a short weekend break or a longer family holiday.
From five-star hotels, self-catering cottages and welcoming B&Bs, to traditional museums and unforgettable experiences, Lanarkshire has it all, as well as being home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: The Antonine Wall and New Lanark.
Along with the stunning scenery, there are endless things to do in Lanarkshire, with something for everyone. For those looking for history for all the family, New Lanark is not to be missed. Boasting an award-winning Visitor Centre, roof garden and situated by the magnificent Falls of Clyde, a visit to this historic site is a truly breath-taking experience.
One of the most popular family attractions in central Scotland is Strathclyde Country Park. Visitors can enjoy a walk or cycle around the beautiful parkland by Strathclyde Loch, or have a go at sailing, wind-surfing or water ski-ing at the park’s Watersports Centre. Plus, nestled within Strathclyde Country Park is M&Ds, Scotland’s only theme park, which boasts five rollercoasters, two water rides, family rides, and Amazonia – an indoor tropical rainforest.
Not to be missed this autumn is the Biggar Little Festival. From 6 – 28 October, the picturesque country town of Biggar is transformed into a cultural haven, with music, art exhibits, craft workshops, theatre and storytelling. This vibrant Festival will be extra special this year as it celebrates 10th anniversary.
In terms of accommodation, Lanarkshire offers a wide selection of hotels, B&Bs and self-catering options to suit every budget and need, including 4* Macdonald Crutherland House Hotel and Spa, East Kilbride, Holiday Inn Express, Hamilton, 4* Cormiston Farm B&B nestled in the Clyde Valley and New Lanarks’s self-catering Waterhouses.
Stephen Balfour of VisitLanarkshire commented: “With such beauty and history right on our doorstep, Scotland is the perfect place for an autumn break. There’s no need to worry about expensive air passenger duty, baggage restrictions or flight delays, and, with the freedom to hop in a car or on a train when you choose, Scotland is your oyster! People often drive through the beautiful countryside of Lanarkshire without realising how many attractions are here, so why not choose Lanarkshire for an autumn holiday, and discover something new!”