Riverside camping near Lanark
The Scottish town of Lanark has a rich history and outdoor adventure on its doorstep.
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Riverside camping near Lanark guide
Overview
For an unassuming town surrounded by farmland in the Central Belt of Scotland, Lanark has an outsize place in Scottish history. It was here that William Wallace led a 1297 uprising against the English, while, just below the town, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of New Lanark tells the story of the utopian idealist Robert Owen, who created a model industrial community here in the early 19th century. Those with a love for the outdoors will find plenty of nearby opportunities for adventure, including the Falls of Clyde Wildlife Reserve, Lanark Loch and Corehouse Nature Reserve.
Where to go
New Lanark
From its visitor center, you can explore the complex of cotton mills that formed the model community of New Lanark. It’s also the gateway to the Falls of Clyde Wildlife Reserve, which has a network of trails for viewing spectacular waterfalls and wildlife including badgers, otters and more than 100 bird species. Just a 15-minute drive north of New Lanark, Clyde Valley Caravan Park is mostly used for holiday homes and static caravans but also has room for motorhomes, caravans and tents.
Covington
The 25-mile (40-kilometer) Lanark, Tinto and Covington cycle route takes you along country roads, through rural landscapes and Lanarkshire’s best scenery. At the end of the route, Covington is an attractive hamlet of thatched cottages. A few miles east of Covington, Biggar Caravan Park has pitches for caravans, tourers and tents.
Douglas
A 20-minute drive south of Lanark, the village of Douglas has historical significance, due to its association with the Lords of Douglas. You can soak up the area’s history on the 3.5-mile (5.6-kilometer) Douglas Historic Walking Route, which takes you along ancient streets and into the surrounding countryside. Four miles (6.4 kilometers) northeast of Douglas, Collierhall Farm is a tranquil campsite set on a small working farm with grass and hardstanding pitches for motorhomes and caravans.
When to go
For the best chance of good weather, mid-summer, from June through August, is the ideal time to visit Lanark, and the entire Central Lowland region. This is also a lovely time to explore the Clyde Valley, which is carpeted in wildflowers during the spring and summer, and the Falls of Clyde Wildlife Reserve. If you’re passing through on your way to begin the West Highland Way, which begins nearby, spring or autumn is best for avoiding crowds.
Know before you go
- Wild camping is allowed throughout Scotland, as long as you follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
- The weather in Scotland is always changeable, even in summer. Come prepared with warm, waterproof clothing.
- Bus services connect Lanark to the surrounding area, as well as Glasgow. Lanark railway station also provides links to several destinations including Glasgow.
- You’ll find a choice of supermarkets in the town center.
