Hamilton
Once the county town of Lanarkshire, Hamilton is steeped in history, and has managed to retain the atmosphere of a 'market town'.
Situated just over 10 miles south west of Glasgow, the town was established in the mid 15th century by the Hamilton family - later the Dukes of Hamilton - whose presence lives on, not only in the town name but also in more tangible reminders: Hamilton Mausoleum, the remarkable domed tomb built for the 10th Duke in 1858 stands a short distance from the town centre and Chatelherault, their Adam-designed former hunting lodge towers over the town from its location in Chatelherault Country Park.
Hamilton's commerical and social heart has recently been revived making it an attractive, vibrant centre boasting modern shops, a multi-screen cinema, night clubs and restaurants. The striking neoclassical Town House has been tastefully restored and hosts a library, professional theatre performances and social events. Other popular attractions include Hamilton Park Race Course, the Water Palace Leisure Centre and on the edge of the town, the massive Strathclyde Country Park.
