Powering the Past, Present and Future: New Trail Launches at New Lanark

A brand-new experience has arrived at New Lanark and the Falls of Clyde, and it’s one that brings together centuries of innovation, the beauty of nature, and the excitement of renewable energy.

The Power Trail, officially launched on Monday 2 June, offers visitors a unique way to explore how water has shaped this historic area, from powering 18th-century cotton mills to generating modern hydroelectricity.

The 1.2km trail winds through the spectacular Falls of Clyde nature reserve, starting at New Lanark, passing the impressive Dundaff Linn and Bonnington Power Station, and ending at the breathtaking Corra Linn. Along the way, visitors can explore 12 interpretation panels covering themes of heritage, environment, and hydro power.

“This exciting new trail showcases New Lanark’s incredible heritage in the development of some of our first renewables – an early marker of Scotland’s potential to generate clean power!” said Michael Shanks MP, Minister for Energy. “Hydro schemes continue to play a critical role in our energy mix, and being able to see the journey of this technology through the centuries is a great opportunity.”

A Trail for Learners of All Ages

Created through the Vision for Lanark initiative, the Power Trail is the result of a collaboration between Lanark Community Development Trust, Drax, New Lanark Trust, and the Scottish Wildlife Trust. It’s supported by funding from Drax Group and SSE’s Sustainable Development Fund – which also helped develop accompanying STEM education resources for schools.

“As chairman of Lanark Community Development Trust I would like to thank our partners, New Lanark Trust and Scottish Wildlife Trust, for their help and support in bringing this project to completion,” said Sylvia Russell, Chair of Lanark Community Development Trust. “We are also very grateful to Drax and SSE for their generous grant funding. We hope that visitors to New Lanark will find the new trail interesting and informative and that school groups will make use of the excellent STEM teaching resources.”

The trail has been specially designed with young learners in mind, providing a structured, interactive way to engage with big ideas like renewable energy, historic innovation, and environmental stewardship. The digital classroom resources mean teachers can tailor activities before or after their visit- or use them entirely remotely.

“We’re delighted to have partnered on this project and are grateful for the opportunity to further develop our visitor experiences,” said Kate Lapping, Head of Heritage at New Lanark. “This initiative will not only explore our onsite heritage but also highlight its connections to the wider community and environment.”

Students Give It the Thumbs-Up

One of the first groups to try the Power Trail was from Lanark Grammar School, whose pupils got a first look at the route and the chance to connect learning with real-life sites.

“The pupils all came away saying that they had learned something new, and they were full of smiles for the rest of the afternoon,” said Jamie Clarkson, ASC & Geography Teacher. “They especially liked the water wheel, the turbine, and of course, the waterfall. Definitely a great wee afternoon out for them all.” As one student put it: “The walk was great and I would go back again!”

Open to All Visitors

While created with schools in mind, the Power Trail is open to everyone. Whether you’re a family out for a walk, a nature enthusiast, or someone curious about how waterpower works – this trail offers a fresh way to experience New Lanark and its surroundings.

Sarah Cameron, Scotland Community Manager at Drax, added: “Drax are delighted to support the development of the Power Trail, as our Lanark Hydro scheme approaches its 100th anniversary. We hope all visitors following the trail enjoy learning about how Bonnington Power Station operates using the River Clyde.”

Additional Guided Tour Created

To complement the new Power Trail and its accompanying resources, New Lanark has also developed a brand-new guided Hydro Power Tour. This paid, onsite experience offers learning groups an in-depth look at the story of renewable energy- past, present and future- rooted in the unique heritage and natural landscape of the area.

Launching in August 2025, the tour is designed to enrich school and educational visits by providing expert-led insights into how waterpower has shaped New Lanark, and how it continues to influence Scotland’s approach to sustainable energy. It’s the perfect springboard for groups to then explore the Power Trail and surrounding environment on their own.

Interested in bringing your school group for an educational visit? Curious about hydro power and how it shapes our environment?

Teachers – get in touch with our heritage team to plan your class trip.

Visitors – come and walk the trail yourself and discover a powerful story that’s still flowing today.

Find out more:
STEM classroom resources: Power Trail – Lanark’s Power Trail
Book guided tours at New Lanark: Learning – New Lanark Visitor Centre
SWT & the environment: Falls of Clyde Wildlife Reserve