Introduction

This evening, I am focusing on one of Scotland’s World Heritage Sites, namely New Lanark.

Location is 35 miles S.W. of Edinburgh and 33 miles S.E. of Glasgow.

Information on New Lanark

This massive cotton manufacturing plant has its origins in the the late 18th century when it was originally established by David Dale (1739-1806).  Original power source was free and very eco-friendly in the form of the River Clyde. This resulted is some very advanced and impressive engineering to harness the power of the water supply which remains in evidence today. Apart from the sheer scale of this enterprise, New Lanark is remembered for the social pioneering of subsequent owner, Robert Owen. Latter focused on the workers quality of life as manifested in improved working conditions, a school, adult education and a village store.

By the 1970s the mill had gone into decline. However it was rescued by a conservation trust which ultimately, and deservedly, achieved World Heritage status for the site. Many of the workers houses have been reinstated as homes and part of the former mill has been converted to a hotel. On site some modest scale spinning is still undertaken. The nearby waterfalls are also deserving of a visit.

The visitor experience is, perhaps, stilted towards children. Nevertheless, the site is worthy of a visit by persons of all ages and will be of special interest to those attracted by industrial history.

Spinning cotton at New Lanark

More information

For more information on Scotland’s textile industry, Industrial history and much more please refer Visitors’ Guide to Scotland, ISBN 978-1-9161332-0-4. This publication is also available via Kindle.