Lanark Museum

The Royal Burgh of Lanark Museum, situated near the centre of this busy market town, was established in 1990 and houses a collection of items which are used to illustrate the ancient and varied history of the town.

Lanark, one of Scotland's oldest burghs, was from the time of King William the Lion, a favoured hunting area of the Kings of Scotland. It has associations with both William Wallace and King Robert the Bruce. The county town of Lanarkshire, for much of its history Lanark remained an important centre of trade, government and law. As a consequence the social history of the town was, and is, very rich in detail and interest.

Lanark Museum, through its annual exhibitions, tells the story of the people at work and at leisure. Heavy industry largely bypassed Lanark but at different times the town became well known for various products. Shoes, gloves, saddlery, weaving, oil, knitwear and 'Mauchlineware'. From the earliest times markets at Lanark were of significance, trading in livestock and agricultural implements. This traditional activity is still in existence today with Lanark Market being one of the largest in Scotland.