South Lanarkshire: a great place to visit in 2009

Although not the biggest or most heavily populated local authority area, South Lanarkshire is certainly one of the most diverse, combining all the advantages of a modern, prosperous urban economy with beautiful rural landscape right on its doorstep.

Its central location in the heart of the central lowlands of Scotland allows it to take full advantage of the main rail and road links to the rest of the UK.

The area is steeped in history with many historical events taking place in the numerous towns and villages with many of these being the birthplaces of some of the world’s most famous inventors, explorers and entrepreneurs. For example the very first meeting of the Scottish parliament took place in Lanark in AD978 and South Lanarkshire was the birthplace of four internationally renowned pioneers in medicine – William Cullen (who first classified diseases and their treatments), brothers John and William Hunter (who pioneered surgery and anatomy) and William Smellie (the “father of modern midwifery”).

With beautiful scenery, thriving towns and a rich history, a visit to South Lanarkshire is a must during the Homecoming year.

Family History
 For more information on the avenues available to help trace family in South Lanarkshire please visit www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk and click on the Homecoming button.

Lanark Lanimer Celebrations (8th - 11th June 2009)
A series of annual events which take place in the Royal Burgh of Lanark in June stretching back to the 12th century. The celebrations consist of the historic Perambulation of teh March Stones followed by the installation of the burgh's new Lord Cornet or standard bearer. On Thursday 11th Junethe burgh "comes alive" with the Lanimer Procession and the crowning of the Lanimer Queen at Lanark Cross. Both these events were established in 1893.
www.lanarklanimers.co.uk