East Kilbride Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Town

Facts and practical information

Located in the heart of the picturesque South Lanarkshire region of Scotland, East Kilbride is a charming town that offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and modern attractions. With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, East Kilbride is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic Scottish experience.

One of the highlights of East Kilbride is its abundance of green spaces and outdoor activities. The town is surrounded by rolling hills, sparkling lochs, and lush forests, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the Calderglen Country Park, a beautiful parkland that features scenic walking trails, a zoo with exotic animals, and a picturesque walled garden. For those looking for a more adventurous experience, the nearby James Hamilton Heritage Park offers a wide range of water sports, including canoeing, kayaking, and windsurfing.

In addition to its natural beauty, East Kilbride is also home to a number of historical landmarks that provide insight into the town's rich past. The National Museum of Rural Life is a must-visit attraction, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into Scotland's agricultural heritage. The museum features interactive exhibits, historic farm buildings, and a working farm where visitors can learn about traditional farming practices.

For art and culture enthusiasts, East Kilbride offers a vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries and theaters showcasing local talent. The East Kilbride Arts Centre is a hub for creativity, hosting a variety of exhibitions, live performances, and workshops throughout the year. Visitors can also explore the town's historic village, which is home to quaint shops, cafes, and traditional Scottish pubs.

When it comes to dining and shopping, East Kilbride has something for everyone. The town center is filled with a mix of high street stores, independent boutiques, and local markets, offering visitors a unique shopping experience. Food lovers can indulge in a variety of cuisines, from traditional Scottish fare to international delicacies, at the town's diverse range of restaurants and cafes.

Alternative names: Population: 74.7 thous.Elevation: 535 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 55°45'54"N, 4°10'30"W

Location

ScotlandUnited Kingdom

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East Kilbride Top Attractions

East Kilbride Attractions - What to See and Explore

East Kilbride offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: National Museum of Rural Life, Calderglen Country Park, St Bride's Church, Calderwood Castle. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

History museum • Museum
National Museum of Rural Life
The National Museum of Rural Life, previously known as the Museum of Scottish Country Life, is based at Wester Kittochside farm, lying between East Kilbride in South Lanarkshire and Carmunnock in Glasgow. It is run by National Museums Scotland.
Park
Calderglen Country Park
Calderglen Country Park is a country park in the town of East Kilbride, South Lanarkshire, Scotland. It is situated along the eastern edge of the town and is its principal greenspace and recreation area.
Church
St Bride's Church
St Bride's Roman Catholic Church is located in East Kilbride in Scotland. It was designed by the architects Gillespie, Kidd and Coia and built between 1957 and 1964.

Forts and castles
Calderwood Castle
Calderwood Castle was located in East Kilbride, Scotland. The castle was situated near the banks of the Rotten Calder Water in what is now Calderglen Country Park.
Forts and castles • Vernacular architecture
Gilbertfield Castle
Gilbertfield Castle is a ruined 17th-century castle in South Lanarkshire, Scotland. It is located at NS652587, on the north slope of Dechmont Hill, just outside Cambuslang, to the south-east of Glasgow.
Park
College Milton
College Milton is an area of the Scottish new town East Kilbride, in South Lanarkshire. It lies on the western edge of the town, bordering West Mains, and consists of a large industrial estate, split into Northern and Southern halves by the A726 road.
Park
Kelvin
Kelvin is an area of the new town of East Kilbride, in South Lanarkshire, Scotland. The area is a large industrial estate in the south-east of the town, surrounded by the St.
Neighbourhood
Lindsayfield
Lindsayfield is a residential area in the new town of East Kilbride, Scotland. The modern estate was constructed from the 1990s onwards.
Neighbourhood
Mossneuk
Mossneuk is a predominantly residential area in the South-West of the Scottish new town East Kilbride, in South Lanarkshire. The area has very few facilities within in it, as it is served by shops and conveniences by the nearby areas of Greenhills, Hairmyres and Gardenhall.
Neighbourhood
The Murray
The Murray is an area of the Scottish new town East Kilbride, in South Lanarkshire. The Murray was the first new town development in the area and as such contains the oldest council housing in the town.
Neighbourhood
Newlandsmuir
Newlandsmuir is an area of the Scottish new town East Kilbride, in South Lanarkshire. It is a relatively modern residential development in the southern half of the town, separating Greenhills from Mossneuk.
Universities and schools
South Lanarkshire College
South Lanarkshire College is a further education institution in South Lanarkshire, Scotland. Its campus is located in East Kilbride, with new buildings completed in 2008 at a site between the town centre and the Kelvin industrial area.

Day trips

East Kilbride – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of East Kilbride, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum (Glasgow), Riverside Museum (Glasgow), Gallery of Modern Art (Glasgow).

8.4 miNW
Grand building of art and natural history
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, Glasgow
Nestled in the heart of Glasgow, the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum stands as a beacon of culture and history in Scotland's most vibrant city. This majestic building, which first opened its doors in 1901, is not only an architectural masterpiece but also one of the...
8.6 miNW
Museum, Specialty museum, History museum
Riverside Museum, Glasgow
The Riverside Museum in Glasgow is a beacon of innovation and design, providing a window into the city's rich industrial past. This contemporary museum, which opened its doors in 2011, stands proudly on the banks of the River Clyde, showcasing Glasgow's transportation...
7.2 miNW
Museum, Art museum, Modern art museum
Gallery of Modern Art, Glasgow
The Gallery of Modern Art, nestled in the heart of Glasgow, United Kingdom, stands as a testament to contemporary creativity and the vibrant art scene of the city. This premier destination for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike is housed in an elegant...
40 milesSW
Golf
Turnberry
Turnberry, located on the rugged coast of the Firth of Clyde in Scotland, United Kingdom, is a name that resonates with golf enthusiasts around the globe. Known for its iconic lighthouse and stunning ocean views, Turnberry's Ailsa Course is a jewel in the crown of golf...
6.8 miNW
Specialist museum of art and artifacts
Burrell Collection, Glasgow
Nestled within the vibrant city of Glasgow, the Burrell Collection is a treasure trove of art and antiquities that offers a unique glimpse into the eclectic tastes of its eponymous collector, Sir William Burrell. This museum, which opened its doors to the public in...