Strathaven 

South Lanarkshire has some of the finest farmlands in southern Scotland and lovely scenery among the Southern Uplands. The ancient borough of Strathaven lies in the Avon Valley: chartered in 1460 it was a major centre for silk in the Middle Ages.

The town’s castle was built in the 17th century and has been home to the Earls of Douglas and Dukes of Hamilton through the years. The ruins are open to the public daily.

• Other local attractions include the 18th century East Church and the John Hastie Museum of local history, which is found in Strathaven Park.