North Lanarkshire Heritage Centre, Motherwell
Discover North Lanarkshire’s rich industrial heritage, family activities, and stunning Clyde Valley views at this free and welcoming heritage centre.
The North Lanarkshire Heritage Centre in Motherwell is a free, family-friendly museum dedicated to the rich history and industrial heritage of North Lanarkshire. It features dynamic exhibitions, a research archive, interactive activities, and a distinctive viewing tower offering panoramic views over the Clyde Valley. Open Monday to Saturday afternoons, it offers engaging experiences for all ages, including craft workshops and local history sessions.
A brief summary to North Lanarkshire Heritage Centre
- High Rd, Motherwell, ML1 3HU, GB
- +441698274590
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-4 pm
- Tuesday 12 pm-4 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-4 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-4 pm
- Friday 12 pm-4 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-4 pm
Local tips
- Admission is free, but book ahead for special workshops or archive visits to secure your spot.
- Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to climb the viewing tower for panoramic views.
- Visit on weekdays for a quieter experience, especially outside school holidays.
- Check the schedule for Saturday craft sessions and seasonal events to engage children.
- Use the archives and local studies room to research family history or local heritage.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
- Drink Options
- Food Options
Getting There
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Train
Motherwell railway station is approximately 2 km from the Heritage Centre, with frequent services from Glasgow and Edinburgh. A taxi from the station takes around 5 minutes, costing roughly £5-£8. The station and taxis are accessible, but check schedules for weekend service variations.
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Bus
Local bus routes serve High Road near the Heritage Centre, with stops within a 5-minute walk. Buses from central Motherwell and nearby towns run every 15-30 minutes. A single fare typically costs £2-£3. Buses are wheelchair accessible, but service frequency may reduce on Sundays.
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Car
Driving to the centre is convenient with nearby parking facilities including accessible spaces. Travel times vary but generally range from 15 to 30 minutes from central Lanarkshire areas. Parking is free or low-cost, but availability can be limited during special events.
North Lanarkshire Heritage Centre location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about North Lanarkshire Heritage Centre
Exploring North Lanarkshire's Past Through Dynamic Exhibitions
The North Lanarkshire Heritage Centre serves as a vibrant hub for discovering the region's history, from its earliest days to modern times. Exhibits focus heavily on the area's industrial roots, showcasing coal mining, steelmaking, and textile production. The displays are regularly updated, ensuring fresh perspectives and stories for repeat visitors. A highlight is the 'Climb Thru Time' exhibition in the tower, which visually narrates the development of Motherwell and its surroundings.A Resource for Family History and Local Research
Beyond exhibitions, the centre houses extensive archives and a local studies reading room. Visitors can delve into historical records, family trees, and media collections using microfilm, microfiche readers, and computers provided on site. This research facility supports both casual visitors and serious historians, making it a key repository for North Lanarkshire’s heritage.Interactive and Family-Friendly Activities
The centre offers a range of engaging activities, particularly for families and children. Regular Saturday craft workshops invite creativity, while Bookbug sessions encourage early literacy among pre-schoolers. Seasonal events, such as Halloween-themed guided tours and arts and crafts, add festive fun. The outdoor play area and interactive displays ensure a welcoming environment for younger visitors.The Iconic Viewing Tower and Scenic Vistas
A distinctive feature of the centre is its fifth-floor viewing tower. From here, visitors can enjoy sweeping views across the Clyde Valley, spotting landmarks such as the Campsie Fells and, on clear days, Ben Lomond. The tower climb involves ascending several levels, offering a rewarding physical challenge paired with spectacular panoramas.Community Engagement and Facilities
The Heritage Centre also functions as a community space, hosting social events, talks, and film screenings focused on local heritage. Facilities include a conference room available for hire, restrooms, and seating areas. Accessibility features such as lift access to the tower and accessible parking are available, though visitors are advised to confirm details in advance.Convenient Location and Visitor Information
Situated on High Road in Motherwell, the centre benefits from excellent transport links and proximity to local shops and cafes. It operates Monday to Saturday from 12pm to 4pm, with free general admission. Some workshops and special events may require booking or a small fee. The centre is a valuable cultural asset, blending education, recreation, and community spirit in one accessible venue.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
North Lanarkshire International Brigades Memorial
0.6 km
Where North Lanarkshire's anti-fascist heroes are remembered—a memorial to 40 Spanish Civil War volunteers.
Netherton Cross (Hamilton)
3.1 km
Discover Hamilton’s oldest Christian symbol, the intricately carved 11th-century Netherton Cross, a rare relic of Scotland’s early medieval heritage.
Ruins of Carluke old Parish Church (St Luke’s)
11.8 km
Discover the evocative ruins of Carluke Old Parish Church, a serene historic site echoing centuries of Scottish spiritual heritage.
Strathaven Castle
13.4 km
Discover the haunting ruins of Strathaven Castle, a 15th-century fortress steeped in history, legend, and Scottish heritage.
Buffalo Bill Statue
16.0 km
Where the American frontier met Victorian Glasgow in an unforgettable winter spectacle.
Former Templeton Carpet Factory
16.4 km
A Venetian Gothic masterpiece in Glasgow’s East End, blending rich carpet-making heritage with vibrant modern community life.
Snuff Mill Bridge
16.7 km
Historic cast iron bridge over White Cart Water, blending Glasgow’s industrial heritage with scenic riverside charm.
Nelson's Monument, Glasgow
16.8 km
A towering 44-meter obelisk on Glasgow Green honoring Admiral Nelson’s naval victories and Glasgow’s pioneering civic spirit.
Southern Necropolis
16.8 km
Explore the Southern Necropolis in Glasgow: A serene cemetery steeped in history, art, and nature, perfect for reflection and discovery.
The Glasgow Necropolis
16.8 km
Explore the historical beauty of the Glasgow Necropolis, a Victorian cemetery offering stunning views and rich stories of Glasgow's past.
Bridge of Sighs
16.9 km
A quiet stone bridge in Glasgow’s Cathedral Square, linking the medieval cathedral to the Victorian Necropolis and echoing centuries of farewells.
Glasgow Cathedral Burial Ground
17.0 km
Discover the historic Glasgow Cathedral Burial Ground, a tranquil oasis filled with centuries-old gravestones and rich stories in the heart of Glasgow.
Glasgow 2014 Monument
17.0 km
A bold, colourful sculpture celebrating Glasgow’s 2014 Commonwealth Games, where sport, art and civic pride come together in a striking riverside landmark.
Glasgow Cathedral
17.0 km
Explore the breathtaking Gothic architecture and rich heritage of Glasgow Cathedral, a must-visit for every traveler in Scotland.
Barrowland Park
17.0 km
Experience the charm of Barrowland Park, Glasgow's vibrant oasis featuring art, play areas, and a glimpse into the city's rich cultural heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Our Lady of Good Aid Cathedral
0.5 km
Discover the architectural beauty and serene ambiance of Our Lady of Good Aid Cathedral, a must-see spiritual landmark in Motherwell.
Duchess of Hamilton Park
0.6 km
A spacious, family-friendly park in Motherwell offering diverse sports, play areas, and tranquil green spaces for all ages and interests.
Club 100
1.3 km
A welcoming, affordable sports bar in Motherwell offering lively events, great atmosphere, and a friendly local vibe.
Strathclyde Country Park
1.4 km
Explore Strathclyde Country Park’s vast loch, trails, watersports, and family-friendly adventures in the heart of Lanarkshire’s natural beauty.
RSPB Baron’s Haugh
2.1 km
Discover vibrant wetlands and woodlands at RSPB Baron's Haugh, a serene nature reserve rich with birds, otters, and seasonal wildlife in Motherwell.
Dalzell Estate
2.2 km
Explore centuries of history and nature across Dalzell Estate’s majestic grounds, from ancient trees to stunning gardens in Motherwell.
River Clyde
2.3 km
Explore the River Clyde, Glasgow’s historic waterway famed for its shipbuilding legacy, industrial heritage, and vibrant riverside regeneration.
Hamilton Mausoleum
2.4 km
Explore Hamilton Mausoleum, a majestic 19th-century tomb famed for its soaring dome, exquisite marble interiors, and the world’s longest echo.
The Cameronians - Scottish Rifles - Exploring The Regimental Collection
2.8 km
Explore the proud legacy and unique heritage of Scotland’s Cameronians in this historic regimental museum at Hamilton’s Low Parks.
The George Bar
3.0 km
A cherished Hamilton pub famed for its real ale, friendly vibe, and welcoming atmosphere since 1991.
M&D's Scotland's Theme Park
3.0 km
Scotland's only theme park offering thrilling rides, indoor fun, and tropical wildlife experiences for the whole family in scenic Strathclyde Country Park.
Carfin Grotto
3.0 km
Scotland’s National Shrine to Our Lady of Lourdes, a century-old pilgrimage site offering peace, prayer, and spiritual reflection near Motherwell.
Chatelherault Country Park
3.4 km
Explore 500 acres of historic woodland, scenic river trails, and family-friendly adventures at Chatelherault Country Park near Hamilton.
Cadzow Castle
3.6 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Cadzow Castle, a hidden 16th-century stronghold of the Hamiltons set above a dramatic gorge in scenic Chatelherault Country Park.
Billy McNeil statue
3.7 km
Celebrate the legendary Celtic captain Billy McNeill with this iconic statue in his hometown of Bellshill, a symbol of football history and local pride.
Essential places to dine
Da Claudio
0.6 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with refined flavors and warm hospitality at Da Claudio, Motherwell’s beloved dining destination.
Gusti D'Italia
2.9 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Hamilton at Gusti D'Italia, where tradition meets modern dining.
Twenty One Restaurant
2.9 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality at Twenty One Restaurant, Hamilton’s modern gem for fresh, handcrafted cuisine.
GC Bar & Bistro
3.1 km
Experience Southern American flavors with a friendly family touch at GC Bar & Bistro, Hamilton’s vibrant steakhouse and bistro.
Rocca Ristorante & Bar
3.1 km
Elegant Italian dining in Hamilton’s historic heart, blending classic flavors with a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.
Da Antonio
3.3 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality at Da Antonio, Hamilton’s beloved Italian restaurant on Muir Street.
Wide Mouth Frog
3.4 km
Modern European dining with a scenic golf course backdrop, perfect for families and special occasions in Motherwell.
Leonardo's
3.4 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality await you at Leonardo's, Hamilton’s charming Italian restaurant with fresh cuisine and great value.
Eataliano
3.5 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in a modern, family-friendly setting at Cafe Eataliano in Hamilton.
Coalfield's Steakhouse Bistro & Bar
3.6 km
A welcoming steakhouse bistro in Holytown offering expertly grilled meats and a lively, casual atmosphere for all occasions.
Artisan
4.7 km
Artisan serves top-quality Scottish cuisine with a modern European twist in a welcoming, value-driven setting on Wishaw’s Main Street.
Carrigan's Hamilton
5.1 km
Cozy British gastropub in Hamilton known for hearty portions, friendly service, and a welcoming family atmosphere.
Booffi Village - The Buffet Restaurant
6.6 km
A vibrant buffet in Wishaw serving fresh, diverse world cuisines with great value and a family-friendly atmosphere.
Cocktails & Steaks
6.7 km
A stylish steakhouse in Uddingston blending expertly cooked steaks with crafted cocktails in a lively, welcoming setting.
SmithS Restaurant
6.7 km
Experience refined French dining with a Scottish twist in the heart of Uddingston’s welcoming Parisian-style brasserie.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Motherwell Shopping Centre
0.4 km
A bustling community shopping centre in Motherwell offering diverse retail and dining options with convenient access and local charm.
Primark
3.0 km
Discover affordable, trendy fashion at Primark Hamilton, your go-to clothing store in the heart of Quarry Street.
Regent Shopping Centre
3.1 km
Hamilton's premier shopping destination since the 1970s, offering quality retail and dining in the heart of town.
New Cross Centre
3.1 km
A central shopping destination in Hamilton poised for transformation into a vibrant new town centre community.
Deja Elite Boutique
3.4 km
Discover exquisite designer dresses and personalized styling at Hamilton’s premier boutique for prom, wedding, and evening wear.
Holytown Antiques
3.6 km
Discover timeless antiques and vintage treasures with rich stories at Holytown Antiques in Motherwell’s historic heart.
La Grande Boutique
3.7 km
Discover stylish women's fashion and curated apparel collections at La Grande Boutique, Bellshill’s premier destination for contemporary and timeless looks.
Fairhill Store
4.9 km
A welcoming convenience store in Hamilton offering fresh local products and essentials with friendly service and convenient hours.
Wild Grace
6.5 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and Scottish charm at Wild Grace, a cozy gift shop in the heart of Uddingston, Glasgow.
Libellula Boutique
6.6 km
Chic and accessible ladies’ fashion in the heart of Uddingston, blending style with a welcoming, family-friendly vibe.
Heart Style
8.1 km
Discover unique gifts, candles, and bespoke framing in a cozy boutique setting at Heart Style, Coatbridge’s charming local treasure.
Blairgrove Shopping Centre
8.2 km
A welcoming local shopping centre in Coatbridge blending convenience with community charm on Bank Street.
Clyde Valley Antiques Centre
9.3 km
Curated antiques and collectibles in Scotland's Clyde Valley, where history meets horticulture.
The Scottish Gift Company
11.3 km
Discover unique Scottish souvenirs and gifts at The Scottish Gift Company in East Kilbride, showcasing local craftsmanship and culture.
The Original Factory Shop (Carluke)
11.7 km
Discover unbeatable discounts on fashion, beauty, and home essentials at The Original Factory Shop in Carluke’s town center.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Horseshoe Bar
0.1 km
Lively and welcoming Motherwell pub known for friendly service, great pints, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
The Railway Tavern
0.2 km
Motherwell’s vibrant Railway Tavern offers live music, hearty homemade food, and a cozy atmosphere with year-round comfort and friendly vibes.
Electric Bar
0.9 km
A lively Motherwell pub with diverse menu options, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
Bar Zero
2.9 km
A vibrant bar and grill in Hamilton offering a welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu from lunch to late night.
Bridges Bar
2.9 km
Discover the warm ambiance and local charm of Bridges Bar in New Stevenston, where refreshing drinks and community spirit await.
Courtyard Bar Hamilton
3.0 km
A lively and welcoming town centre pub in Hamilton offering friendly service and a relaxed atmosphere with moderate prices.
JunkYard Hamilton
3.1 km
Lively cocktail bar and grill in Hamilton offering rustic charm, delicious barbecue, and expertly crafted drinks in a vibrant social setting.
Jilts Bar
3.2 km
A classic Hamilton pub serving hearty pub grub and friendly vibes in a cozy, no-frills setting.
ML3 Bar
3.3 km
Experience Hamilton’s vibrant nightlife at ML3 Bar, where friendly service, great drinks, and lively atmosphere come together in a welcoming setting.
Victoria Bar
3.3 km
A welcoming traditional Scottish pub in Hamilton offering affordable drinks, lively atmosphere, and authentic local charm.
Butterburn Bar
3.5 km
A friendly, traditional pub in Hamilton offering good food, lively sports, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Bar West
3.9 km
Casual and friendly bar & grill in Hamilton, perfect for hearty meals, drinks, and social nights out.
The Peacock & Ivy
4.0 km
A vibrant bar and restaurant in Hamilton offering modern dining, lively atmosphere, and a broad drink selection in a stylish setting.
The Club, Motherwell
4.2 km
A friendly and affordable local pub in Newarthill, Motherwell, blending traditional charm with lively entertainment and community spirit.
Girdwoods Bar
4.8 km
A vibrant Wishaw pub known for live music, sports, and a welcoming atmosphere with stylish interiors and extensive drinks.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Hamilton Palace
2.8 km
Lively nightclub, bar, and restaurant in Hamilton’s city center, open late on weekends for vibrant nightlife and entertainment.
ROC Nightclub Hamilton
2.9 km
Experience Hamilton’s vibrant late-night scene at ROC Nightclub, the city’s energetic hub for weekend parties and music from 11 PM to 3 AM.
Eden Night Club
8.1 km
Vibrant late-night hotspot in Coatbridge offering house, R&B, and chart music with a lively atmosphere and smart dress code.
Avenue Nightclub Coatbridge
8.2 km
Coatbridge’s premier late-night nightclub for over-21s, offering vibrant music, modern vibes, and a lively weekend party scene.
Pulse
8.5 km
Experience Airdrie’s vibrant nightlife at Pulse Nightclub, where music, dancing, and unforgettable moments come alive.
I-Kandy Nightclub
8.5 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at I-Kandy Nightclub in Airdrie, where vibrant music and a lively atmosphere await!
Downtown Nightclub
11.7 km
Experience East Kilbride’s vibrant weekend nightlife at Downtown Nightclub, a hub of music, dancing, and late-night energy in the town centre.
Skye Nightclub & Lounge
12.0 km
Energetic nightclub and lounge in East Kilbride offering vibrant nightlife, music, and drinks in a stylish setting.
18 Candleriggs
17.4 km
Glasgow's kitsch cabaret haven where dazzling shows, tasty grill fare, and lively vibes create unforgettable Merchant City nights.
AXM Glasgow
17.6 km
Scotland's biggest LGBTQ+ nightclub: two floors of pop, charts, and dance in Glasgow's heart, with cheap drinks and zero attitude.
Polo Lounge
17.6 km
Glasgow's grandest gay nightclub: multi-level dance floors, cheap drinks, and non-stop energy until dawn in Merchant City's heart.
Riding Room
17.6 km
Fancy cabaret club in Glasgow's gay triangle, serving exotic kettle cocktails alongside burlesque, magic, and cheeky shows in a lively, intimate venue.
Club X
17.6 km
Glasgow's underground RnB haven: where beats throb, lights flash, and the LGBTQ+ community dances till dawn in Merchant City's beating heart.
Delmonicas
17.6 km
Scotland's biggest gay club: drag shows, karaoke, DJs, and non-stop inclusive party vibes in Glasgow's Merchant City heart.
La Cheetah Club
17.8 km
Glasgow’s intimate basement club with a powerful sound system, vibrant underground beats, and a welcoming community spirit.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Family Friendly
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Educational
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Family Friendly
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly