Strathaven
Strathaven (pronounced 'Stray-ven') is situated in the heart of the Avon Valley and lies on the A71 tourist route which runs from the Ayrshire coast to Edinburgh.
Strathaven has a long history and displays its medieval origins in its town green, around which the rest of this picturesque and colourful little town is arranged. The ruins of 15th-century Strathaven Castle also hint that some of this history was far from peaceful. In fact, during the religious wars of the 17th century, the town was a Covenating stronghold and nearby Drumclog was the site of a famous battle between Covenanting and Government forces in 1679. There are a number of gravestones and other monuments relating to the Covenanters in Strathaven and the surrounding countryside.
The circular heritage trail is an ideal way to explore not only the history of the town but its more modern attractions such as the wide range of specialist shops and the large public park.
The town also hosts Scotland's premier hot air balloon festival each year on the last weekend in August.
