Things to do in South Lanarkshire

The Falls of Clyde are a series of spectacular waterfalls on the River Clyde above the UNESCO World Heritage town of New Lanark in South Lanarkshire, a sequence of four falls including Corra Linn, the highest at approximately 28 metres, set in a deep wooded gorge that forms one of the most dramatic inland waterfall landscapes in Scotland and has been celebrated since the Romantic period when Wordsworth, Coleridge and Turner all visited and were profoundly impressed. The Scottish Wildlife Trust manages the gorge as a nature reserve, its ancient oak woodland and the river habitat supporting an exceptional variety of wildlife. The gorge path from New Lanark follows the Clyde upstream through the reserve, the river confined between high sandstone cliffs in a deep valley of considerable drama. Corra Linn, the principal fall, is most impressive when the river is in full spate after heavy rain, the water rushing over three stepped ledges in a torrent of considerable power, but even in lower water conditions the falls retain their grandeur and the spray-fed vegetation of the gorge provides a lush and atmospheric setting. The ruins of Corra Castle above the falls add a romantic architectural element to the landscape that the Romantic poets found so congenial. The industrial village of New Lanark at the foot of the gorge is a World Heritage Site in its own right, the planned cotton mill community founded by David Dale in 1786 and subsequently managed by Robert Owen, the pioneering social reformer who made it one of the most enlightened working communities in early industrial Britain. The mill buildings, workers' housing and institute that Owen established for education and community life survive in remarkable completeness and have been restored as a living heritage and residential community. The combination of the natural drama of the gorge and falls with the social and industrial history of New Lanark makes this one of the most richly layered heritage destinations in Scotland.

Gilbertfield Castle is a ruined early 17th century castle located on Dechmont Hill, outside Cambuslang in South Lanarkshire, Scotland. The castle is now a ruin - the roof and one wall have collapsed. The corbelling of the north-west turret remains. Gilbertfield Castle is a Scheduled Ancient Monument and a category B listed building. The castle was completed in 1607 and was owned by the Hamiltons of Gilbertfield. The castle is an L-plan tower house. The basement level was vaulted, and contained cellars and a kitchen, with a large fireplace and oven. A service stair connected the basement with the hall above. Above the hall were two further floors, each with three rooms; two in the main block, and one in the wing. At the highest level, the garret, two round turrets projected at the south-east and north-west corners. There was no parapet.

New Lanark is a UNESCO World Heritage Site on the banks of the River Clyde in Lanarkshire, Scotland, and represents one of the most fascinating experiments in social idealism ever carried out within an industrial setting. Founded in 1785 by David Dale as a cotton spinning village, the settlement became internationally famous under the management of Dale's son-in-law Robert Owen, who turned it into a living demonstration of his belief that a decent environment and good treatment of workers were not only morally right but practically beneficial to productivity and social stability. Owen took over the management of New Lanark in 1800 and immediately began implementing reforms that were radical by any standard of the time. Workers were provided with clean, comfortable housing, access to a cooperative store selling goods at cost price rather than inflated village shop prices, and free healthcare in an era when such provisions were almost unknown. He banned the employment of young pauper children who had been shipped to the mills under brutal conditions, replacing them with older workers who were better treated and correspondingly more reliable. He established a school for the children of workers that was one of the most progressive educational institutions in the world, operating on principles of child-centred learning and character development rather than the rote discipline typical of the period. New Lanark attracted visitors from across Europe and beyond, including the future Tsar Nicholas I of Russia and the economist Jeremy Bentham, all drawn by curiosity about whether Owen's claims for the benefits of benevolent capitalism could be substantiated in practice. Owen used New Lanark as the evidence base for his increasingly radical social philosophy, eventually arguing that private property and individual competition were themselves the root causes of social misery and advocating for cooperative communities as an alternative to industrial capitalism. The preserved mill buildings, workers' housing and community facilities are extraordinarily complete and have been restored by the New Lanark Trust with considerable skill and commitment. The visitor centre within the mills provides an engaging introduction to the industrial and social history of the site, and the adjacent Falls of Clyde nature reserve, managed by the Scottish Wildlife Trust, provides dramatic waterfall scenery and wildlife habitat directly adjacent to the historic village. The combination of industrial heritage, social history and natural beauty makes New Lanark one of the most rewarding sites in Scotland.

New Lanark is a UNESCO World Heritage Site on the banks of the River Clyde in South Lanarkshire, a planned cotton mill community of the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries that was the site of one of the most remarkable social experiments in British industrial history. The village was founded by the Glasgow merchant David Dale in 1786 to house the workforce of his cotton mills powered by the falls of the Clyde, and was subsequently managed from 1800 by his son-in-law Robert Owen, a Welsh-born mill manager turned social reformer who transformed New Lanark into an internationally celebrated demonstration of humane industrial management. Owen's achievement at New Lanark was to prove, at a time when industrial capitalism was developing its most exploitative forms, that a well-housed, educated and fairly treated workforce could be more productive than one subjected to the harsh conditions common elsewhere. He built decent housing for workers, established the Institute for the Formation of Character as a community and educational facility, created Britain's first infant school, provided free healthcare and introduced a system of mutual insurance. Visitors came from across Europe and North America to observe the experiment, and Owen's New Lanark became one of the foundational texts of the co-operative and socialist movements. The mill buildings, workers' housing and community facilities of the Owen period survive in extraordinary completeness, having been conserved and partially restored since the 1970s after a period of decline following the closure of the mills. The New Lanark Trust has created a visitor attraction from the heritage buildings that includes a hotel, self-catering accommodation and a comprehensive museum experience explaining Owen's vision and its legacy for the modern welfare state and co-operative movement. The position of the village at the foot of the Clyde Gorge with the Falls of Clyde immediately upstream adds an exceptional natural setting to the already remarkable heritage significance.

The Falls of Clyde comprise a magnificent series of four waterfalls located on the River Clyde near the historic town of Lanark in South Lanarkshire, Scotland. These falls represent one of Scotland's most impressive waterfall sequences, with the two principal cascades being Corra Linn and Bonnington Linn. Corra Linn, the most spectacular of the group, drops approximately 26 meters (84 feet) in a dramatic plunge that has captivated visitors for centuries. Bonnington Linn, situated downstream, falls about 9 meters (30 feet) in a series of steps and cascades. The other two falls in the sequence are Dundaff Linn and Stonebyres Linn, which together with the major falls create a stunning gorge section of the River Clyde that extends for several kilometers through ancient woodland. The River Clyde, Scotland's third-longest river, begins its journey in the Southern Uplands before flowing through this dramatic gorge section near Lanark. The geology of the Falls of Clyde is characterized by layers of sedimentary rocks, primarily sandstones and mudstones from the Carboniferous period, which have been carved and shaped by millennia of water erosion. The resistant rock layers have created the distinctive steps and ledges that form the waterfall sequence, while softer layers have been worn away to create the deep gorge that surrounds them. The geological structure has been further influenced by ancient volcanic activity in the region, which contributed to the varied rock types and the dramatic topography that makes these falls so striking. The Falls of Clyde hold a distinguished place in Scottish cultural and artistic history, having inspired numerous poets, artists, and writers over the centuries. The Romantic poet William Wordsworth visited the falls and wrote about their sublime beauty, while the artist J.M.W. Turner captured Corra Linn in watercolor during his Scottish tours. The falls featured prominently in the Grand Tour itineraries of the 18th and 19th centuries, when wealthy travelers would journey to Scotland to experience its wild landscapes. Local folklore speaks of spirits and supernatural beings inhabiting the gorge, and the thunderous roar of Corra Linn in full spate has long been associated with tales of power and mystery. The area around the falls was also strategically important in medieval times, with several defensive structures built to control movement along the River Clyde valley. The natural environment surrounding the Falls of Clyde is remarkably rich and has been designated as a Scottish Wildlife Trust nature reserve, making it one of the organization's oldest and most important sites. The ancient woodland that cloaks the gorge includes specimens of oak, ash, elm, and wych elm, some of which are several centuries old. This mature woodland provides vital habitat for numerous species, including badgers, roe deer, and otters that fish in the pools below the falls. The site is particularly renowned for its population of peregrine falcons, which nest on the cliff faces within the gorge, and for being one of the few places in Scotland where visitors might glimpse the rare and elusive Scottish wildcat, though sightings are extremely uncommon. The woodland floor in spring is carpeted with bluebells, wood anemones, and wild garlic, creating spectacular displays of wildflowers. The flow of the Falls of Clyde has been significantly affected by hydroelectric development, which began in the early 20th century when power stations were constructed to harness the energy of the falling water. Four hydroelectric stations were built in the gorge, which diverted much of the River Clyde's flow away from the natural waterfalls. For many years, the falls ran with greatly reduced flow, disappointing visitors who had traveled to see them in their full glory. Following campaigns by conservationists and the Scottish Wildlife Trust, agreements were reached with Scottish Power to release compensation water, ensuring that the falls now receive regular water flows. Special water releases are scheduled on certain weekends during the year, when the falls can be seen at closer to their historical volume, providing spectacular viewing opportunities. Access to the Falls of Clyde is excellent, with the Scottish Wildlife Trust maintaining a visitor center in New Lanark, the famous 18th-century mill village that sits at the head of the gorge. New Lanark itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its importance in the history of industrial development and social reform. From New Lanark, a network of well-maintained woodland paths allows visitors to explore the falls, with the main circuit walk being approximately 3.5 kilometers (2.2 miles) and taking most visitors between 90 minutes and two hours to complete. The paths wind through the ancient woodland, offering multiple viewpoints of the various falls, though some sections can be steep and require reasonable mobility. The route to the viewing platform for Corra Linn involves descending into the gorge via a series of steps and pathways that can be slippery in wet conditions. The historical significance of the wider area adds another dimension to any visit to the Falls of Clyde. The New Lanark mills, founded by David Dale in 1786 and later managed by the social reformer Robert Owen, represented a revolutionary approach to industrial working conditions and worker welfare. Owen's experiments in social reform, including the provision of education, decent housing, and fair working conditions, made New Lanark famous throughout the world in the early 19th century. The power of the Falls of Clyde was integral to the success of these mills, with the falling water driving the machinery that processed cotton into thread and cloth. Today, visitors can combine a visit to the falls with exploration of the restored mill buildings and worker housing, gaining insight into both natural and industrial heritage in a single trip. The juxtaposition of wild natural beauty with this monument to early industrialization creates a unique and thought-provoking visitor experience that illuminates the relationship between human endeavor and natural resources.

Spectacle E'e Falls is a picturesque waterfall located on the Kype Water near Strathaven in South Lanarkshire, Scotland. The falls are situated in a wooded glen that has carved its way through the underlying Old Red Sandstone geology characteristic of this part of the Central Lowlands. The waterfall itself consists of a series of cascades where the Kype Water tumbles over rocky ledges, creating a visually striking feature that has long attracted visitors to this relatively secluded corner of Lanarkshire. The name "Spectacle E'e" is derived from Scots dialect, with "e'e" meaning "eye," suggesting that the formation of the pools and the way water flows over the rock may have historically resembled a pair of spectacles or eyes when viewed from certain vantage points. The Kype Water rises in the moorlands to the south of Strathaven and flows northward through a landscape of mixed farmland and woodland before eventually joining the Avon Water. The glen through which it passes at Spectacle E'e Falls has been shaped over millennia by the erosive action of the river cutting down through sedimentary rocks, creating a narrow, steep-sided valley that provides shelter for a variety of plant and animal life. The woodland surrounding the falls includes native species such as oak, birch, and hazel, while the damp conditions near the waterfall support mosses, ferns, and lichens that thrive in the humid microclimate created by the constant spray and moisture. The falls have been a popular destination for local residents and visitors for generations, with the area around Strathaven having a long history of textile manufacturing and agricultural activity. The water power of the Kype and other local streams was historically harnessed for mills, though Spectacle E'e Falls itself appears to have remained primarily a natural feature valued for its scenic beauty rather than industrial utility. The relative proximity to the town of Strathaven, which developed around its medieval castle and became an important weaving center, meant that the falls became a recreational destination during the Victorian era when appreciation for natural landscapes and picturesque scenery became increasingly fashionable. Access to Spectacle E'e Falls is via woodland paths that descend into the glen from the surrounding agricultural land. The paths can be steep and potentially slippery, particularly after rainfall, requiring visitors to exercise caution when making their way down to the waterside. The most commonly used approach is from the minor roads that cross the Kype Water in this area, with informal parking areas allowing visitors to begin their walk into the glen. The relative seclusion of the site means it rarely becomes crowded, offering a peaceful experience for those willing to make the short but sometimes challenging walk to reach the falls. The wildlife of the glen includes typical Scottish woodland species, with the possibility of spotting dippers and grey wagtails along the rocky streambed, both birds being well-adapted to life beside fast-flowing water. The surrounding woodland provides habitat for roe deer, foxes, and a variety of smaller mammals, while the tree canopy supports populations of common woodland birds. In spring and early summer, the area comes alive with birdsong, and the woodland floor may display carpets of bluebells and other wildflowers in areas where sufficient light penetrates the canopy. Spectacle E'e Falls represents one of several attractive natural features in the Avon Water catchment area, contributing to the scenic diversity of South Lanarkshire's landscape. While not among Scotland's most dramatic or highest waterfalls, it holds particular charm due to its intimate scale and the beautiful woodland setting that frames it, offering visitors a sense of discovery and connection with the natural heritage of this part of the Scottish Lowlands.

Bothwell Castle is a large medieval castle in South Lanarkshire, Scotland, about 10 miles south-east of Glasgow. It is built on a steep bank above the River Clyde, between Uddingston and Bothwell Construction began in the 13the century by the ancestors of Clan Murray. It is now a large rectangular ruin, with a large circular Donjon (central tower) at the west end and the Great Hall to the east side of the rectangular central courtyard. The castle is surrounded by long curtain walls. It is now managed by Historic Scotland, and is open to the public In 1296, the army of King Edward I of England invaded Scotland and captured Bothwell Castle. The English forces holding the castle was besieged by the Scots for over a year and eventually surrendered. Edward's army returned in 1301 and captured the castle again using siege engines. Bothwell Castle remained in English hands for several years. After Robert the Bruce's victory at Bannockburn in 1314, the castle provided shelter for several English nobles. The castle was surrendered to the Scots who destroyed it. In 1336 the English returned again, under Edward III who had the castle repaired, and again made it his headquarters in Scotland. The following year, Sir Andrew Murray, the rightful owner of the castle recaptured it once more. He partly demolished it and so it could not be reoccupied by the enemy. The castle remained derelict until the 1360s when it was rebuilt by the Douglas family. The Great Hall was added in the 15th century. The castle was finally abandoned in the 18th century.

Shieldhill Castle near Biggar in Lanarkshire is a historic castle of medieval origin that has been operated as a country house hotel for several decades, offering accommodation and dining within an ancient building that incorporates fabric from several centuries of construction and occupation. The castle was associated with the Chancellors of Shieldhill, a family who held lands in this part of Clydesdale from the twelfth century, giving the building one of the longer documented histories of ownership of any castle in Lanarkshire. The surrounding Upper Clydesdale landscape between Biggar and the Southern Uplands is a quietly attractive agricultural area with a distinctive heritage of market towns, prehistoric sites and the remains of the Roman road network that crossed this part of Scotland.

Bonnington Linn is one of the most historically significant waterfalls on the River Clyde, located in the dramatic gorge near New Lanark in South Lanarkshire, Scotland. The falls occur where the Clyde descends through a series of rapids and cascades in a narrow, wooded valley, creating a spectacular natural feature that has captivated visitors for centuries. The waterfall forms part of the Falls of Clyde, a sequence of four major waterfalls on this stretch of the river, with Bonnington Linn being the uppermost of these impressive cataracts. The drop itself is substantial, with the river tumbling over a series of rocky ledges in a powerful display of natural force, particularly impressive after periods of heavy rainfall when the Clyde is in full spate. The River Clyde rises in the hills of South Lanarkshire, beginning its journey from springs in the Southern Uplands before making its way through this remarkable gorge section near Lanark. The geology of the area is characterized by layers of sedimentary rocks, including sandstones and volcanic rocks from the Carboniferous period, which have been carved and sculpted by the river over millennia. The resistant nature of these rocks has created the dramatic stepped profile that characterizes Bonnington Linn and the other Falls of Clyde, with the river exploiting weaknesses in the rock to create its spectacular descent through this section of its course. The history of Bonnington Linn is intimately connected with the development of hydroelectric power in Scotland, which has fundamentally altered the character of the waterfall. In the early twentieth century, a hydroelectric scheme was developed that diverted much of the Clyde's water through tunnels and pipes to power stations below the falls. This means that for much of the year, the falls run with only a fraction of their natural flow, appearing as a mere trickle over the dark rocks. However, the Scottish Wildlife Trust, which manages the Falls of Clyde Wildlife Reserve, has negotiated agreements for water releases on certain days, allowing visitors to witness something closer to the falls' original grandeur. These scheduled releases transform Bonnington Linn from a modest cascade into a thundering torrent, providing a glimpse of the power that once ran continuously through this gorge. The industrial heritage of the area is dominated by the presence of New Lanark, the pioneering mill village that lies downstream from Bonnington Linn. Founded in 1786 by David Dale and later managed by social reformer Robert Owen, New Lanark harnessed the power of the Falls of Clyde to drive its cotton mills, becoming one of the most important industrial sites of its era. The village is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the relationship between the waterfalls and the mills represents a crucial chapter in the history of the Industrial Revolution. Visitors to Bonnington Linn are thus walking in a landscape that tells the story of humanity's relationship with natural power, from the early water wheels to modern hydroelectric generation. The landscape surrounding Bonnington Linn is one of wooded gorge scenery, with the river cutting through steep, tree-covered slopes that create a dramatic and secluded atmosphere. Native woodland clings to the valley sides, with species including oak, ash, and birch providing habitat for a variety of wildlife. The Falls of Clyde Wildlife Reserve, which encompasses Bonnington Linn and the other waterfalls, is particularly noted for its population of peregrine falcons, which nest on the cliffs of the gorge. Badgers, roe deer, and otters are among the mammals that inhabit the area, while the river itself supports populations of fish including brown trout. The combination of dramatic topography, native woodland, and the presence of the river creates a rich habitat mosaic that supports considerable biodiversity. Access to Bonnington Linn is provided through the Falls of Clyde Wildlife Reserve, with the Scottish Wildlife Trust maintaining a network of paths through the gorge. The main walking route follows the river from New Lanark upstream, passing Dundaff Linn and Corra Linn before reaching Bonnington Linn, which is the furthest upstream of the major falls accessible to visitors. The paths can be challenging in places, with steep sections and sometimes muddy conditions, but they offer spectacular views of the gorge and its waterfalls. The walk from New Lanark to Bonnington Linn and back represents a satisfying circular route of several miles, taking visitors through some of the most impressive river gorge scenery in Scotland. The paths are well-marked, and information boards provide details about the natural and industrial heritage of the area. The cultural significance of Bonnington Linn and the Falls of Clyde extends beyond their industrial importance to encompass their role in the Romantic imagination of Scotland. The falls attracted numerous artists and writers during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, who were drawn to the sublime qualities of the landscape. The painter J.M.W. Turner visited and sketched the falls, while poets including William Wordsworth were inspired by their dramatic setting. This artistic heritage reflects the falls' position as one of Scotland's most celebrated natural features during the age of Romantic tourism, when wild landscapes and powerful waterfalls were sought out as sources of aesthetic and emotional experience.

Cadzow Castle is a romantic ruin in the Hamilton High Parks above a gorge of the River Avon in South Lanarkshire, a stronghold of the powerful Hamilton family that served as a rallying point for Mary Queen of Scots following her abdication before being destroyed in 1579 by Regent Moray's forces. The ruins of the great rectangular tower and courtyard walls are engulfed by the ancient oak woodland of the High Parks, creating one of the most atmospherically beautiful castle settings in Lanarkshire. The High Parks are also home to the White Cattle of Cadzow, a small herd of primitive semi-wild cattle that have grazed this landscape for centuries and are among the last survivors of the ancient wild cattle of Britain, making Hamilton High Parks one of the most distinctive heritage landscapes in Lanarkshire.

Stonebyres Falls is a striking waterfall on the River Clyde located near the town of Lanark in South Lanarkshire, Scotland. The falls descend approximately 24 metres (80 feet) in a dramatic single drop over a rocky ledge, creating one of the most impressive waterfalls on Scotland's longest river. The water tumbles over a series of layered sandstone and basalt formations that date from the Carboniferous period, with the distinctive geology of the area creating the hard bands of rock that form the waterfall's lip. During periods of high flow, particularly after heavy rainfall or snowmelt, the falls transform into a powerful torrent of white water, while in drier conditions the flow becomes more subdued, revealing the intricate rock structures beneath. The spray from the falls creates a microclimate in the immediate vicinity, keeping the surrounding rocks and vegetation perpetually damp. The River Clyde, which forms these falls, is Scotland's third-longest river, rising in the Southern Uplands and flowing approximately 176 kilometres to the Firth of Clyde at Glasgow. At Stonebyres, the river is well into its middle course, having already passed through a landscape shaped by both ancient volcanic activity and more recent glaciation. The catchment area upstream includes much of South Lanarkshire's agricultural and moorland terrain, meaning the river's flow can vary considerably with the seasons and weather patterns. This section of the Clyde flows through a deeply incised gorge that the river carved through softer sedimentary rocks, with harder volcanic intrusions creating natural barriers that form waterfalls like Stonebyres. The area around Stonebyres Falls has a rich industrial heritage connected to the harnessing of the River Clyde's power. The falls and the rapids downstream historically provided water power for various mills and industrial operations, particularly during the 18th and 19th centuries when the textile industry flourished in Lanarkshire. Evidence of these former industrial activities can still be found in the landscape, including remnants of lades (water channels) and mill buildings. The name "Stonebyres" itself reflects the area's historical character, with "byres" referring to cattle shelters or farm buildings, suggesting the agricultural use of the surrounding lands before and alongside industrial development. The landscape surrounding Stonebyres Falls is characterized by mixed woodland, including mature deciduous trees such as oak, ash, and birch, along with coniferous plantations in some areas. The steep-sided gorge through which the Clyde flows creates a dramatic natural setting, with the river having carved its way through layers of ancient rock over millennia. The woodlands and riverbanks provide habitat for a variety of wildlife, including grey herons that fish in the pools below the falls, dippers that hunt for invertebrates in the fast-flowing water, and occasionally otters that patrol this stretch of the river. The spray zone around the falls supports distinctive communities of mosses, liverworts, and ferns that thrive in the constantly moist conditions. Access to Stonebyres Falls is relatively straightforward, with the waterfall forming part of the Clyde Walkway, a long-distance footpath that follows the river for much of its length. Visitors typically approach from the village of Kirkfieldbank, which lies on the opposite bank of the Clyde from the falls. There is limited parking available in the village, and from there a well-maintained path leads along the riverbank toward the falls, offering increasingly dramatic views as one approaches. The walk takes visitors through attractive woodland and provides multiple vantage points from which to view the waterfall and the gorge. The path can be steep and potentially slippery in places, particularly near the falls themselves, so appropriate footwear is advisable. The falls are located within a broader landscape that includes several Sites of Special Scientific Interest, recognizing the area's geological and ecological importance. The combination of ancient volcanic rocks, sedimentary layers, and the dramatic erosive power of the river creates an outstanding example of river gorge formation and waterfall development. The site is also of interest to geologists studying Scotland's geological history, as the rock formations visible in the gorge walls tell the story of ancient volcanic activity, tropical swamps that formed coal deposits, and subsequent glaciation that shaped the modern landscape. Stonebyres Falls can be visited year-round, with each season offering different perspectives on the waterfall and its surroundings. Spring brings fresh growth to the woodlands and increased flow from snowmelt in the uplands, while autumn colors the trees in rich hues that contrast beautifully with the white water. Winter can transform the scene entirely, with ice formations adding to the drama, though paths may be more challenging to navigate. The nearby town of Lanark provides amenities including shops, cafes, and accommodation for those wishing to explore the area more extensively. The falls are also within reasonable distance of other attractions in the Clyde Valley, including the famous Falls of Clyde near New Lanark, making the area popular with waterfall enthusiasts and those interested in Scotland's industrial heritage.

Craignethan Castle is a ruined castle in South Lanarkshire, Scotland. It is located on a bluff above the River Nethan two miles west of the village of Crossford, and 4.5 miles north-west of Lanark. Craignethan Castle was built in 1532 and was the last purpose-built fortress to be constructed in Scotland. The castle is protected by steep slopes on the south, north and east sides, with defences concentrated towards the west. The castle has a low central keep, within a rectangular walled courtyard. To the west there is a deep ditch beyond which is a larger outer courtyard. Craignethan Castle was built by Sir James Hamilton in 1532. Hamilton was executed for treason and Craignethan passed to the Crown. It was acquired in 1542 by another James Hamilton, 2nd Earl of Arran. Hamilton and his family led the forces supporting Mary Queen of Scots claim to the Scottish Crown. The Earl of Moray had briefly captured Craignethan Castle in 1568 after Mary's defeat at the Battle of Langside, but lost it to the Hamiltons again later the same year. In July 1570 and again in 1571 the Hamiltons launched abortive military coups from their bases at Craignethan Castle and Hamilton Castle. In May 1579, James VI supporters moved against Craignethan Castle and it was abandoned without a fight. In the 1580s the main defences were demolished. The tower house remained in use as a family residence, until 1665. In 1730 Craignethan was sold to the Duke of Douglas. In the late 19th century and the property was given into state care in 1949, and is now a Scheduled Ancient Monument managed by Historic Scotland. The Arts Craignethan Castle is said to be the inspiration for "Tillietudlem Castle", in Sir Walter Scott's novel, Old Mortality