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Things To Do in South Lanarkshire
With Crutherland House Hotel & Spa nestled on the edge of the picturesque South Lanarkshire countryside, just 30 minutes from the vibrant heart of Glasgow, you can enjoy the perfect mix of peaceful retreat and exciting exploration.
Surrounded by tranquil woodlands, scenic walking routes, and charming historic towns, Crutherland House Hotel & Spa offers a serene setting that makes it the ideal base for discovering this beautiful part of Scotland. Whether you're craving countryside calm or cultural days out, you'll find it all right on your doorstep.
From family-friendly attractions and fascinating heritage sites to invigorating outdoor adventures and unmissable local events, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. All the while, you can unwind in our luxurious spa and leisure facilities, soak up the natural surroundings, and truly switch off.
Step Into Farm Life at the National Museum of Rural Life
Looking for a fun day out where the kids can get hands-on and learn something new, head to the National Museum of Rural Life, where the whole family can experience life on a real working farm.
Little animal lovers will enjoy meeting friendly Tamworth pigs, fluffy sheep, and cheeky chickens, plus the adorable Highland calves, Airgead II and Ceo V. Budding drivers can get up close to big farm machinery like tractors and combine harvesters, perfect for mini motorheads.
Take a walk through the historic farmhouse or step back in time in the 1950s byre and try your hand at traditional milking. Don’t miss the Garden Detectives display, an indoor sensory adventure where kids can explore a lifelike garden, sniff fresh scents, and listen to the sounds of nature. It’s a brilliant mix of play, learning, and fresh-air fun for curious minds of all ages.
National Museum of Rural Life is a 10 minute drive from Crutherland House Hotel & Spa
Images supplied by National Museums Scotland
Explore, Discover, and Play at Calderglen Country Park
Looking for a day full of fresh air, animals, and adventure, Calderglen Country Park is a brilliant spot for families to enjoy nature, explore exciting play areas, and meet some fascinating creatures.
Kids will love the Children’s Zoo, where they can see everything from cheeky meerkats and wallabies to tiny tortoises and rare birds. Don’t miss the afternoon feeding sessions, zookeepers give fun, friendly talks and love answering curious questions. The park also features two fantastic adventure play areas, one for little ones and another for bigger explorers, plus ornamental gardens, tropical glasshouses, and plenty of space to run around.
Fancy a walk, there are over 8 miles of nature trails to explore along the beautiful Rotten Calder River, complete with waterfalls and wildlife. Pop into the Visitor Centre for maps, exhibitions, and info on guided walks. Calderglen has something for every member of the family, rain or shine.
Calderglen Country Park is a 5 minute drive from Crutherland House Hotel & Spa
Images supplied by Visit Scotland
Non-Stop Family Fun at M&D’s Scotland’s Theme Park
Get ready for an action-packed day out at M&D’s Scotland’s Theme Park, the biggest in the country and bursting with fun for the whole family. With over 20 kids’ rides, thrilling roller coasters, and classic fairground fun, there’s something for every age and thrill level.
Little adventurers can fly in the Red Baron, bounce on trampolines, or explore the Krazy Congo soft play, while older kids and grown-ups tackle exciting rides like the Twister and Captain’s Curse. Don’t miss the splash-tastic White Water log flume and the high-flying Walk the Plank Sky Trail.
Indoors, discover Scotland’s only indoor tropical rainforest, filled with exotic animals and creepy crawlies. Add in cosmic bowling, arcade games, and Devil’s Island Adventure Golf, and you’ve got an unforgettable family day out. Just grab a Fun Points Card and let the adventure begin—there’s something new around every corner at M&D’s.
M&D's Theme Park is a 17 minute drive from Crutherland House Hotel & Spa
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
A must-visit for families, the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum has been delighting visitors since 1901, and it’s easy to see why. With 22 themed galleries and over 8,000 fascinating objects, it’s perfect for a fun, educational day out, especially when the Glasgow weather isn’t on your side.
Kids and grown-ups alike will love the mix of ancient fossils, a real Egyptian coffin, and even a full-sized Spitfire plane hanging from the ceiling. Art lovers can enjoy masterpieces from the Dutch Masters to Salvador Dali, and the newly reopened Life Gallery brings nature to life with stories of leatherback turtles, flightless birds, and even Kelvingrove’s own bees, kept since 1959. Younger visitors can enjoy the Mini Museum, family activity trails, and Toddler Time on Fridays, while adults might enjoy the daily organ recitals.
Entry is completely free, making it an unforgettable, budget-friendly day out for the whole family.
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is a 34 minute drive from Crutherland House Hotel & Spa
Images supplied by Visit Scotland
Step Back in Time at New Lanark World Heritage Site
Looking for a day out that’s full of learning, exploring, and outdoor fun, head to New Lanark, a beautifully restored 18th-century cotton mill village and UNESCO World Heritage Site, perfect for curious kids and grown-ups alike.
At the New Lanark Visitor Centre, families can discover the inspiring story of Robert Owen, a true pioneer who believed in fair wages, education, and better living for all. Step into historic school rooms, explore traditional homes, and see how life has changed since the 1800s.
Hop aboard the Annie McLeod Experience, a magical indoor ride where a young mill girl takes you on a journey back to 1820. Kids can even dress up in old-fashioned clothes and enjoy interactive galleries full of sound, colour, and light. Don’t miss the scenic Roof Garden or take a nature walk to the stunning Falls of Clyde, an unforgettable family adventure.
New Lanark World Heritage Site is a 45 minute drive from Crutherland House Hotel & Spa
Images supplied by Visit Scotland