When we planned our Scotland trip, we knew we wanted to spend time in the countryside, and the town of Strathaven turned out to be the perfect base. Tucked into rolling hills in South Lanarkshire, Strathaven (pronounced “Stray-ven”) is a historic market town with layers of history, scenic walks, and plenty of character. It is located just a short ride from Glasgow, and there is even a bus that goes back and forth every day.
What made it extra special is that our lovely friend Meg is from Strathaven, and her family lives here, as well as our friend Margaret, who volunteered to let us stay at her lovely house for the week. We were able to get a real idea of what the town is like and also had several private tour guides to show us around!
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A Town Steeped in History
The name Strathaven comes from the valley of the Avon Water, which flows gracefully through the area. In 1450, the Duke of Hamilton secured a royal charter that gave Strathaven its status as a burgh of barony. This allowed the town to hold markets, and the original marketplace, now called the Common Green, still serves as the central gathering spot.
At the edge of town, the ruins of Strathaven Castle (also known as Avondale Castle) overlook the Powmillon Burn. Built in the 15th century, the castle was once controlled by the powerful Black Douglases before passing to the Hamilton family. Later, Sir Andrew Stewart, 1st Lord Avondale, left his influence here too. While only fragments remain, it’s easy to imagine its importance in Strathaven’s early days.
Life in Strathaven Today
Despite its deep history and even its role during the Industrial Revolution, today Strathaven feels like a welcoming small town. We were lucky to be there during the annual hot-air balloon festival, and the glow-up at night was magical. Dozens of balloons lit up against the dark sky, drawing crowds from all around the region.
We also made a point to visit a few local pubs. Weavers had a slightly upscale feel, perfect for a quiet evening drink. The Strathaven was lively and fun, with more of a social buzz. But our favorite had to be the Drumclog Inn, a working man’s pub where we found the cheapest pints in town and some of the friendliest banter. It felt like the real heart of the community.
One of the most surprising stops was at Lethams Dairy Farm. The farm is fully automated, with robots that clean, feed, and even milk the cows. Watching modern technology at work in such a traditional setting was fascinating, and the cows seemed perfectly content.
Of course, it’s impossible to ignore the landscape around Strathaven. The countryside is full of sheep-dotted hills, winding lanes, and endless skies. Walking paths follow the Avon Water and the Powmillon Burn, making it easy to slip out of town and enjoy peaceful views.
A Day Trip to New Lanark
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While we could have happily stayed in Strathaven the whole week, we set aside a day to visit New Lanark, just a short drive away. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a glimpse into the social experiments of the 18th and 19th centuries.
During the Industrial Revolution, the mills here gained fame not only for their textile production but also for the progressive living conditions they provided to workers. Exploring the preserved mill buildings and learning about the lives of the people who lived there added another layer to our understanding of the region’s history.
Where to Eat in Strathaven
For a small town, Strathaven has some great food options:
- The Taal – excellent Indian food with rich flavors and friendly service.
- Alexander Taylor – a bakery that’s been around for generations, perfect for morning rolls, fresh bread, or sweet treats.
- Roasted – a tiny spot for sandwiches and coffee. Space is limited, so think takeaway, but it’s worth it.
- The Waterside – a local favorite with a broad menu, good for when you want a little bit of everything.
Travel Tips for Visiting Strathaven
- Best time to visit: We were there in August, and the weather was fantastic—plenty of sunshine and very little rain.
- Bring an umbrella anyway: This is Scotland, after all! Showers can pop up without warning. Here’s the one we recommend.
- Pubs to try: For an upscale feel, head to Weavers; for a lively night, go to The Strathaven; and for cheap beer and friendly conversation, don’t miss the Drumclog.
- Don’t miss the balloon festival: If your visit coincides with this annual event, the nighttime glow-up is unforgettable.
- Use it as a base: Strathaven is perfectly located for exploring central Scotland, with New Lanark just a short drive away.
Final Thoughts
Our week in Strathaven provided us with more than just a comfortable base for exploring Scotland; it gave us a genuine sense of place. Between the castle ruins, the pubs, the rolling countryside, and the warmth of the people we met, we felt like we’d discovered a hidden gem. Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor walks, or just soaking in small-town life, Strathaven is well worth a visit. It’s the kind of town where the past lingers in every stone, but the present welcomes you with open arms.
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For more info about our other trips in Scotland, read our blogs on Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Dunblane! Want to see more pictures? Check out our Instagram and Facebook posts.
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Shelley is a full-time traveler, writer, and podcaster based in Portugal, where she lives with her wife and their beloved bulldog, Scoot. Originally from Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Shelley is a former history teacher who swapped the classroom for cobblestone streets and passport stamps. These days, she explores Portugal and Europe in search of fascinating stories, unforgettable sights, and local flavor—then shares it all through her blog and podcast, Wandering Works for Us, where curiosity meets adventure (and sometimes wine).