Netherton Cross: Hamilton's Ancient Christian Monument
Discover Hamilton’s oldest Christian symbol, the intricately carved 11th-century Netherton Cross, a rare relic of Scotland’s early medieval heritage.
The Netherton Cross, located at 3 Strathmore Road in Hamilton, Scotland, is the oldest symbol of Christianity in the town. Dating back to the 10th or 11th century, this intricately carved red sandstone cross features figurative scenes of humans, animals, and patterns on all four sides. Originally situated in the Low Parks near the medieval motte hill, it was relocated to Hamilton Old Parish Church for preservation. The cross is a rare example of ecclesiastical sculpture from the Kingdom of Strathclyde and remains a significant historical landmark under Historic Environment Scotland’s protection.
A brief summary to Netherton Cross (Hamilton)
- 3 Strathmore Rd, Hamilton, ML3 6AQ, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit the Netherton Cross at Hamilton Old Parish Church for close viewing and photography in a peaceful churchyard setting.
- Explore nearby historical sites like Hamilton Mausoleum and the former Hamilton Palace grounds to deepen your understanding of the area’s heritage.
- Check weather conditions before visiting, as the cross is outdoors and exposed to the elements.
- Look for the marker stone near the M74 motorway across from Hamilton services to see the original site of the Netherton Cross.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take local bus services from Hamilton town center to Strathmore Road; the journey typically takes 10-15 minutes. Bus frequency varies, with regular daytime services. Tickets cost around £2-£4. Note that some routes may have limited evening service.
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Train and Walk
Arrive at Hamilton West train station, then walk approximately 20 minutes (1.5 km) along accessible pavements to 3 Strathmore Road. The walk is on flat terrain but may not be suitable for all mobility levels.
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Car
Drive to 3 Strathmore Road, Hamilton ML3 6AQ. Parking options near the Old Parish Church are limited; on-street parking may be available. Expect a 5-10 minute drive from Hamilton town center. No parking fees typically apply, but check local restrictions.
Netherton Cross (Hamilton) 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 Netherton Cross (Hamilton)
Origins and Historical Significance of the Netherton Cross
The Netherton Cross stands as the oldest Christian symbol in Hamilton, with origins tracing back to the 10th or 11th century, approximately between 950 and 1100 AD. It is a remarkable relic from the Kingdom of Strathclyde, a medieval Brittonic kingdom in what is now southern Scotland and northern England. Crafted from red sandstone, the cross is a free-standing monument standing 2.1 metres tall, adorned on all sides with detailed figurative carvings depicting humans, animals, and intricate patterns. These designs reflect influences from Pictish sculpture traditions, making the cross an exceptional example of early medieval ecclesiastical art in the region.Original Location and Landscape Context
The cross originally stood in the Low Parks area of Hamilton, north of the medieval motte hill, which was part of the Duke of Hamilton’s estate. This area, once a settlement known as Netherton, was later transformed by the development of the M74 motorway and Strathclyde Country Park. The original site of the cross is now marked by a stone near the motorway, across from Hamilton services. The Low Parks were historically significant as the grounds surrounding Hamilton Palace, once one of the grandest houses in the British Isles, and the cross connected the spiritual heritage of the area to this wider landscape.Preservation Efforts and Relocation History
In 1857, Hamilton Town Council, in collaboration with the Duke of Hamilton, established a committee to conserve the cross. By 1867, protective railings were installed to prevent damage from livestock tethering, a common practice by local farmers. The cross was moved indoors to Hamilton Library in the late 19th or early 20th century for further protection. In 1925, it was relocated again to its current position in front of Hamilton Old Parish Church on Strathmore Road, where it remains accessible to the public. During World War II, the cross was safeguarded by being bricked around and filled with sand to protect it from bomb blasts.Artistic and Cultural Importance
The Netherton Cross serves as a tangible link to Hamilton’s early Christian roots and the Celtic church traditions of the past. Its detailed carvings provide insight into the religious iconography and artistic styles of the early medieval period in Scotland. The cross is not only a spiritual symbol but also a cultural artifact that connects modern Hamilton to its historical and religious heritage. It is protected by Historic Environment Scotland and continues to be a focus for those interested in Scotland’s ecclesiastical history.Current Setting and Visitor Experience
Today, the Netherton Cross is prominently displayed at the entrance of Hamilton Old Parish Church on Cadzow Lane, easily accessible for visitors wishing to explore Hamilton’s rich history. The churchyard setting enhances the monument’s solemn and reflective atmosphere. Nearby, the town offers additional historical sites such as Hamilton Mausoleum and the remnants of Hamilton Palace grounds, allowing visitors to contextualize the cross within the broader narrative of the area’s aristocratic and religious past.Symbolism and Legacy in Hamilton’s Identity
As Hamilton’s oldest Christian symbol, the Netherton Cross embodies the town’s spiritual origins and enduring connection to its medieval past. It stands as a testament to the region’s early adoption of Christianity and the artistic craftsmanship of the time. The cross’s survival through centuries of change, including urban development and wartime threats, highlights the community’s commitment to preserving its heritage. It remains a revered landmark, inspiring reflection on faith, history, and cultural continuity in Hamilton.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Netherton Cross (Hamilton)
0.0 km
Discover Hamilton’s oldest Christian symbol, the intricately carved 11th-century Netherton Cross, a rare relic of Scotland’s early medieval heritage.
North Lanarkshire International Brigades Memorial
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Strathaven Castle
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Ruins of Carluke old Parish Church (St Luke’s)
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Discover the evocative ruins of Carluke Old Parish Church, a serene historic site echoing centuries of Scottish spiritual heritage.
Snuff Mill Bridge
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Buffalo Bill Statue
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Where the American frontier met Victorian Glasgow in an unforgettable winter spectacle.
Former Templeton Carpet Factory
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A Venetian Gothic masterpiece in Glasgow’s East End, blending rich carpet-making heritage with vibrant modern community life.
Nelson's Monument, Glasgow
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A towering 44-meter obelisk on Glasgow Green honoring Admiral Nelson’s naval victories and Glasgow’s pioneering civic spirit.
Glasgow 2014 Monument
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A bold, colourful sculpture celebrating Glasgow’s 2014 Commonwealth Games, where sport, art and civic pride come together in a striking riverside landmark.
The Glasgow Necropolis
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Explore the historical beauty of the Glasgow Necropolis, a Victorian cemetery offering stunning views and rich stories of Glasgow's past.
Barrowland Park
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Experience the charm of Barrowland Park, Glasgow's vibrant oasis featuring art, play areas, and a glimpse into the city's rich cultural heritage.
St Andrew's in the Square
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A stunning Georgian cultural venue in Glasgow, blending historic elegance with vibrant events and timeless charm.
Bridge of Sighs
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A quiet stone bridge in Glasgow’s Cathedral Square, linking the medieval cathedral to the Victorian Necropolis and echoing centuries of farewells.
Gorbals
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Discover the vibrant transformation of Gorbals, a unique housing development in Glasgow blending history, culture, and contemporary living.
The Gatekeeper
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A striking bronze figure guarding Glasgow’s Gorbals, blending art, history, and community spirit in a unique urban landmark.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Cameronians - Scottish Rifles - Exploring The Regimental Collection
0.4 km
Explore the proud legacy and unique heritage of Scotland’s Cameronians in this historic regimental museum at Hamilton’s Low Parks.
Hamilton Mausoleum
0.8 km
Explore Hamilton Mausoleum, a majestic 19th-century tomb famed for its soaring dome, exquisite marble interiors, and the world’s longest echo.
Strathclyde Country Park
1.7 km
Explore Strathclyde Country Park’s vast loch, trails, watersports, and family-friendly adventures in the heart of Lanarkshire’s natural beauty.
Chatelherault Country Park
2.1 km
Explore 500 acres of historic woodland, scenic river trails, and family-friendly adventures at Chatelherault Country Park near Hamilton.
Cadzow Castle
2.2 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.
River Clyde
2.3 km
Explore the River Clyde, Glasgow’s historic waterway famed for its shipbuilding legacy, industrial heritage, and vibrant riverside regeneration.
M&D's Scotland's Theme Park
2.6 km
Scotland's only theme park offering thrilling rides, indoor fun, and tropical wildlife experiences for the whole family in scenic Strathclyde Country Park.
RSPB Baron’s Haugh
2.6 km
Discover vibrant wetlands and woodlands at RSPB Baron's Haugh, a serene nature reserve rich with birds, otters, and seasonal wildlife in Motherwell.
Neilsland Park
2.7 km
Explore the tranquil woodlands and historic trails of Neilsland Park, a natural oasis in Hamilton perfect for nature lovers and families.
Duchess of Hamilton Park
2.7 km
A spacious, family-friendly park in Motherwell offering diverse sports, play areas, and tranquil green spaces for all ages and interests.
North Lanarkshire Heritage Centre
3.1 km
Discover North Lanarkshire’s rich industrial heritage, family activities, and stunning Clyde Valley views at this free and welcoming heritage centre.
Dalzell Estate
3.3 km
Explore centuries of history and nature across Dalzell Estate’s majestic grounds, from ancient trees to stunning gardens in Motherwell.
Club 100
3.5 km
A welcoming, affordable sports bar in Motherwell offering lively events, great atmosphere, and a friendly local vibe.
Our Lady of Good Aid Cathedral
3.5 km
Discover the architectural beauty and serene ambiance of Our Lady of Good Aid Cathedral, a must-see spiritual landmark in Motherwell.
Wooddean Park
3.7 km
Wooddean Park offers a peaceful community green space in Bothwell with play areas, sports facilities, and ongoing regeneration efforts.
Essential places to dine
Twenty One Restaurant
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Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality at Twenty One Restaurant, Hamilton’s modern gem for fresh, handcrafted cuisine.
Rocca Ristorante & Bar
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Elegant Italian dining in Hamilton’s historic heart, blending classic flavors with a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.
GC Bar & Bistro
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Experience Southern American flavors with a friendly family touch at GC Bar & Bistro, Hamilton’s vibrant steakhouse and bistro.
Gusti D'Italia
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Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Hamilton at Gusti D'Italia, where tradition meets modern dining.
Da Antonio
0.5 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality at Da Antonio, Hamilton’s beloved Italian restaurant on Muir Street.
Leonardo's
0.7 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality await you at Leonardo's, Hamilton’s charming Italian restaurant with fresh cuisine and great value.
Eataliano
0.7 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in a modern, family-friendly setting at Cafe Eataliano in Hamilton.
Carrigan's Hamilton
2.4 km
Cozy British gastropub in Hamilton known for hearty portions, friendly service, and a welcoming family atmosphere.
Da Claudio
3.4 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with refined flavors and warm hospitality at Da Claudio, Motherwell’s beloved dining destination.
Crossbasket Castle
5.7 km
Exclusive-use 17th-century Scottish castle near Glasgow offering luxury accommodation, fine dining, and stunning grounds for weddings and events.
Cocktails & Steaks
6.0 km
A stylish steakhouse in Uddingston blending expertly cooked steaks with crafted cocktails in a lively, welcoming setting.
SmithS Restaurant
6.0 km
Experience refined French dining with a Scottish twist in the heart of Uddingston’s welcoming Parisian-style brasserie.
Coalfield's Steakhouse Bistro & Bar
6.3 km
A welcoming steakhouse bistro in Holytown offering expertly grilled meats and a lively, casual atmosphere for all occasions.
Wide Mouth Frog
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Modern European dining with a scenic golf course backdrop, perfect for families and special occasions in Motherwell.
Artisan
7.0 km
Artisan serves top-quality Scottish cuisine with a modern European twist in a welcoming, value-driven setting on Wishaw’s Main Street.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
New Cross Centre
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A central shopping destination in Hamilton poised for transformation into a vibrant new town centre community.
Primark
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Discover affordable, trendy fashion at Primark Hamilton, your go-to clothing store in the heart of Quarry Street.
Regent Shopping Centre
0.3 km
Hamilton's premier shopping destination since the 1970s, offering quality retail and dining in the heart of town.
Deja Elite Boutique
0.7 km
Discover exquisite designer dresses and personalized styling at Hamilton’s premier boutique for prom, wedding, and evening wear.
Fairhill Store
2.0 km
A welcoming convenience store in Hamilton offering fresh local products and essentials with friendly service and convenient hours.
Motherwell Shopping Centre
3.3 km
A bustling community shopping centre in Motherwell offering diverse retail and dining options with convenient access and local charm.
La Grande Boutique
4.8 km
Discover stylish women's fashion and curated apparel collections at La Grande Boutique, Bellshill’s premier destination for contemporary and timeless looks.
Wild Grace
5.7 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and Scottish charm at Wild Grace, a cozy gift shop in the heart of Uddingston, Glasgow.
Libellula Boutique
5.9 km
Chic and accessible ladies’ fashion in the heart of Uddingston, blending style with a welcoming, family-friendly vibe.
Holytown Antiques
6.2 km
Discover timeless antiques and vintage treasures with rich stories at Holytown Antiques in Motherwell’s historic heart.
The Scottish Gift Company
8.2 km
Discover unique Scottish souvenirs and gifts at The Scottish Gift Company in East Kilbride, showcasing local craftsmanship and culture.
Blairgrove Shopping Centre
9.3 km
A welcoming local shopping centre in Coatbridge blending convenience with community charm on Bank Street.
Heart Style
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Discover unique gifts, candles, and bespoke framing in a cozy boutique setting at Heart Style, Coatbridge’s charming local treasure.
Clyde Valley Antiques Centre
10.2 km
Curated antiques and collectibles in Scotland's Clyde Valley, where history meets horticulture.
Pretty Little Things Boutique
12.0 km
Charming family-run gift boutique in East Kilbride offering stylish British-made presents and accessories for every special occasion.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
JunkYard Hamilton
0.1 km
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Courtyard Bar Hamilton
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Bar Zero
0.2 km
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Jilts Bar
0.2 km
A classic Hamilton pub serving hearty pub grub and friendly vibes in a cozy, no-frills setting.
Victoria Bar
0.4 km
A welcoming traditional Scottish pub in Hamilton offering affordable drinks, lively atmosphere, and authentic local charm.
ML3 Bar
0.5 km
Experience Hamilton’s vibrant nightlife at ML3 Bar, where friendly service, great drinks, and lively atmosphere come together in a welcoming setting.
Butterburn Bar
0.6 km
A friendly, traditional pub in Hamilton offering good food, lively sports, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Bar West
1.0 km
Casual and friendly bar & grill in Hamilton, perfect for hearty meals, drinks, and social nights out.
The Peacock & Ivy
1.1 km
A vibrant bar and restaurant in Hamilton offering modern dining, lively atmosphere, and a broad drink selection in a stylish setting.
The Woodhead Bar
2.5 km
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Electric Bar
2.7 km
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Horseshoe Bar
3.1 km
Lively and welcoming Motherwell pub known for friendly service, great pints, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
The Railway Tavern
3.2 km
Motherwell’s vibrant Railway Tavern offers live music, hearty homemade food, and a cozy atmosphere with year-round comfort and friendly vibes.
The Ranch
5.5 km
Larkhall’s friendly pub and grill offering great value, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere with a spacious beer garden.
Bridges Bar
5.7 km
Discover the warm ambiance and local charm of Bridges Bar in New Stevenston, where refreshing drinks and community spirit await.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
ROC Nightclub Hamilton
0.2 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.
Hamilton Palace
0.3 km
Lively nightclub, bar, and restaurant in Hamilton’s city center, open late on weekends for vibrant nightlife and entertainment.
Downtown Nightclub
8.8 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
9.1 km
Energetic nightclub and lounge in East Kilbride offering vibrant nightlife, music, and drinks in a stylish setting.
Avenue Nightclub Coatbridge
9.6 km
Coatbridge’s premier late-night nightclub for over-21s, offering vibrant music, modern vibes, and a lively weekend party scene.
Eden Night Club
9.6 km
Vibrant late-night hotspot in Coatbridge offering house, R&B, and chart music with a lively atmosphere and smart dress code.
Pulse
10.6 km
Experience Airdrie’s vibrant nightlife at Pulse Nightclub, where music, dancing, and unforgettable moments come alive.
I-Kandy Nightclub
10.8 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at I-Kandy Nightclub in Airdrie, where vibrant music and a lively atmosphere await!
18 Candleriggs
15.9 km
Glasgow's kitsch cabaret haven where dazzling shows, tasty grill fare, and lively vibes create unforgettable Merchant City nights.
AXM Glasgow
16.1 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
16.1 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
16.2 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
16.2 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
16.2 km
Scotland's biggest gay club: drag shows, karaoke, DJs, and non-stop inclusive party vibes in Glasgow's Merchant City heart.
The Shed
16.3 km
Dive into Shawlands' glitzy two-floor nightclub where chart bangers, R&B, hip-hop, and 80s cheese anthems fuel unpretentious Southside partying till the early hours.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
