Lanarkshire is an historic county, but still has geographic meaning today, as it’s just below Glasgow, incorporating the local council areas of both North and South Lanarkshire, and the basin of the River Clyde. As you travel south from Glasgow through Lanarkshire, the landscape becomes more rural, heading for the lush, green hills of the Southern Uplands. Expect lush green fields, sweeping country parks and ancient forests. It can be quite a fairytale landscape, and the best places to stay in Lanarkshire are popular choices for families, walkers and cyclists, and explorers.

There are numerous walking trails crossing Lanarkshire, but one of the best known is the Falls of the Clyde walk, which starts from the New Lanark World Heritage Site (a uniquely preserved, 18th century mill village, which sits beside the Clyde River). From there the trail heads through scenic woodland to the spectacular waterfalls. This is badger territory, and woodpecker and tawny owl. Other charming one day walks can be found in Chatelherault Country Park — 500 acres of countryside and woodland around an 18th century hunting lodge. A walk to the summit of Tinto Hill is also well worth the effort — you'll be able to see great swathes of the Clyde Valley.

The best places to stay in Lanarkshire are ideal for outdoorsy types whether you like to walk or cycle —all of them offer cosy comforts and hearty fare to recharge you.

The Best Places to Stay in Lanarkshire

For County House Perfection

• Crossbasket Castle is a 17th century castle, complete with medieval-style crenelated battlements, square and round towers, and a big stone, Gothic door. Now it’s a hotel, with just nine elegant guest rooms, and a fantastic restaurant, overseen by Michel Roux Jnr. The country house details are perfect: large sash windows, antiques, roll-top baths, and plenty of fancy plasterwork. Outside you can expect lovely gardens and grounds, plus local fishing rights, beautiful woodlands, and six local 18-hole golf courses. You’re close to Glasgow too.

Prefer a Private Apartment or Cottage?

• If you'd prefer the privacy of a self-catering option then browse through the wide variety available online with our partner, Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Want to fly to Lanarkshire?

• Lanarkshire’s closest international airport is Glasgow Airport. 
• If you want to hire a car we recommend you visit our online partner, Rentalcars.
• There’s always a chance of rain in this part of the world, so whatever time of year you choose to visit be prepared for any possible weather combinations. This far north it’s probably the light that makes the most difference to your visit. Closer to mid-summer the days are a lot longer, so we recommend May through September. Unless you like it brisk and cool, in which case winters are very beautiful, especially if you like cold-weather hiking.

Still not sure where to stay?

• Expand your search to include the best places to stay in Glasgow as well
• Consider checkout our recommendations in Ayrshire
• Or you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Lanarkshire