Lesmahagow Travel Guide

Discover the magnificent town of Lesmahagow in Clydesdale, Scotland! Read this travel guide to get detailed information of places to visit, things to do, and tips to help you on your trip.


Introduction to Lesmahagow

Lesmahagow is a delightful town located in Clydesdale, in South West Scotland, United Kingdom. Initially, the town grew around the religious community, with the presence of three significant medieval churches. The town has beautiful buildings and sites giving an insight into Scotland’s heritage.

Lesmahagow today is a thriving community, and there is always something to be seen or done in this town. Being a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, Lesmahagow offers an opportunity for nature lovers to be engulfed by exhilarating experiences with its stunning countryside. The town boasts an exciting and unique culture, fantastic cuisine, and friendly locals.

In this guide, we will take you through the best sites to visit, things to do, as well as essential information to guide you on your trip to Lesmahagow.

List of Places to Visit in Lesmahagow

Here is a list of the most interesting places to visit in Lesmahagow:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

1. New Lanark World Heritage Site

The New Lanark World Heritage Site is a fantastic attraction that’s only about 7km from Lesmahagow. The site is one of Scotland’s six World Heritage Sites and features a 200-year-old mill village, spread over 11 acres. Here you can have a guided tour that takes you on a journey to discover the life and times of the people who lived and worked here in the past.

2. Lesmahagow Old Parish Church

The Lesmahagow Old Parish Church is the town’s most historic building, dating back from the 12th century. The church is an ideal place to go if you want to get a glimpse of Scotland’s Christian heritage. The church contains a unique display of stained glass, and the detailed architecture is impressive.

Natural Attractions of Lesmahagow: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

1. Falls of Clyde

Less than 10km from Lesmahagow, Falls of Clyde is a world-famous site with breathtaking waterfalls. Here you can take a hiking trip, and along the way, you will see the three primary waterfalls; the Corra Linn, the Bonnington Linn, and the Dundaff Linn. You could also take a guided tour of the nature reserve that provides an excellent opportunity to those who love to experience wildlife and nature.

2. Tinto Hill

Tinto Hill, located northwest of Lesmahagow is one of the hills in Lanarkshire. It stands at 707 meters high, and hiking the hill offers a wonderful view of the town and surrounding areas. The trails have varying degrees of difficulty, so it’s perfect for beginners and experienced hikers alike.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lesmahagow

Lesmahagow has a scenic countryside, and various routes provide an ideal opportunity for hiking, mountain biking, and cycling around the town. Here are some of the best-trails to explore:

1. Clyde Walkway

The Clyde Walkway, stretching more than 40 miles, follows the course of the River Clyde. The route, beginning at Glasgow Green, goes through the charming countryside, with many landmarks in between, giving you a chance to experience scenic views and rich history.

2. Lanark Loch Walk

Lanark Loch Walk is an easy, 2.5 km gravel track around Lanark Loch that is suitable for children and dogs. The trail is ideal for those who love to take a leisurely stroll, unwind, and enjoy the beautiful Scottish countryside.

Best Things to Do in Lesmahagow: Activities and Tours

1. Visit Local Art Galleries

Lesmahagow has numerous art galleries showcasing local art; be sure to stop by some of them. The galleries have diverse artwork ranging from paintings, sculptures, photographs to crafts.

2. Enjoy Fishing

Lesmahagow is a fishing haven, and there are various fishing spots around Clydesdale. For trout fishing, some of the popular spots are Trout Fishery, Cander Water Reservoir, and Kirkfieldbank. On the other hand, if you are into salmon fishing, the River Clyde is where you should head.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lesmahagow

Here is a week-long itinerary to help you make the best of your time in Lesmahagow:

Day Plan
1 Visit Lesmahagow Old Parish Church and stroll around the town center
2 Take a guided tour of New Lanark World Heritage Site
3 Discover wildlife at Falls of Clyde
4 Hike up Tinto Hill
5 Take a leisurely walk at Lanark Loch
6 Try out trout fishing at Trout Fishery
7 Explore local art galleries and souvenir shopping

Food and Drink Scene of Lesmahagow

Must-Try Dishes:

1. Haggis

When visiting Scotland, it’s impossible to ignore Scotland’s national dish, Haggis. This savory meal consists of sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs, mixed with onions, oatmeal, and spices and cooked in a sheep’s stomach lining. Although unusual, it’s worth trying, and you may find yourself surprised by how delicious it tastes.

2. Neeps and Tatties

Neeps and Tatties is another traditional Scottish dish that accompanies Haggis. It’s simply mashed turnips and potatoes seasoned with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.

Local Beverages:

1. Whisky

Scotland is famous for its Whiskey, and a trip to Lesmahagow would be incomplete without tasting some of the local alcohol.

2. Irn-Bru

Irn-Bru is a unique drink popular in Scotland; it is known as Scotland’s other national drink. It is carbonated and has a fruity sweet flavor, and is the top-selling soft drink in Scotland.

Where to Stay in Lesmahagow: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Here are some accommodation options in Lesmahagow:

1. New Lanark Mill Hotel

The New Lanark Mill Hotel is an excellent option for those who want to enjoy leisure activities. The hotel has a fitness center, heated indoor pool, free parking, a library, and other facilities.

2. Robert Burns Guest House

The Robert Burns Guest House offers comfortable en-suite rooms and is an excellent value for money. The guesthouse has a relaxing lounge and offers excellent breakfast for its guests.

What to Buy in Lesmahagow: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Lesmahagow has lots of souvenir shops selling a range of hand-crafted items, including handmade woollen blankets, pottery, and jewelry. Other items that you can consider bringing home include Kilts, Sporrans, and Tartans.

Local Culture and Customs of Lesmahagow

Lesmahagow is a multicultural community that celebrates its history and heritage with pride. It’s crucial to respect the locals and their way of life.

Best Time to Visit Lesmahagow

The best time to visit Lesmahagow is from April to September, the summer months. During these months, the weather is warmer, and the daylight hours are more accommodating to leisure activities. Scottish winters can be harsh and may make outdoor activities more challenging to enjoy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lesmahagow

Do:

  • Greet locals with a warm and friendly “hello”.
  • Respect the Scottish culture, its heritage, and traditions.
  • Take a tour of the historical sites and enjoy outdoor activities.

Don’t:

  • Be loud and obnoxious when in public areas.
  • Litter, respect the environment, and try to keep the town clean.

Safety and Health

Safety in Lesmahagow

Lesmahagow is a relatively safe community, and incidents of crime are rare. However, it’s crucial to be vigilant and careful, especially when carrying valuable items.

Health in Lesmahagow

Though Lesmahagow is generally a safe place, it’s still essential to take personal safety seriously. Take extra precautions when engaging in outdoor activities and avoid taking unnecessary risks.

Getting to Lesmahagow: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Lesmahagow

Glasgow International Airport is the nearest airport to Lesmahagow, about 40 km away. To get to Lesmahagow, visitors can take a bus or taxi from the airport directly.

Bus Stations Near Lesmahagow

The nearest bus station to Lesmahagow is at Lanark Town Center. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to reach Lesmahagow.

Other Options

Visitors can also travel by train, with the nearest train station being Carstairs, just 10.2km from Lesmahagow.

How to Get Around in Lesmahagow

Getting around in Lesmahagow is easy with public transportation, private taxis, and car rentals. Visitors can also walk or ride bikes to explore the town and learn more about the community.

Where to Go Next from Lesmahagow: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

1. Glasgow City

Glasgow City is the nearest city to Lesmahagow and is only around an hour’s drive away. Glasgow is a buzzing city with lots of historical sites, fascinating museums, and excellent shopping.

2. Edinburgh City

Edinburgh City, Scotland’s capital, is around a 1.5-hour drive from Lesmahagow. Edinburgh is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a unique and eclectic blend of history, culture, and architecture. It is also a must-visit place for those who love shopping, dining, and nightlife.

Conclusion

Lesmahagow, with its rich history, stunning landscape, and friendly locals, is an excellent destination for those looking for a unique and exciting Scottish adventure. Whether you love outdoor activities, exploring local culture and heritage, or just enjoying culinary delights, Lesmahagow offers something for everyone. Plan your trip to this charming town now and create unforgettable memories.

Old Parish Church Old Parish Church Entrance to Birkwood Castle Entrance to Birkwood Castle