Lanarkshire Climate Action Festival at New Lanark

Join us at New Lanark on Saturday 19th August for a day of free family-friendly activities as part of the Lanarkshire Climate Action Festival. Discover the wonders of nature, learn about renewable energy and enjoy hands-on experiences in the beautiful surroundings of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Session 1: Family Friendly Morning Session – Bug Hunters – 11am-12:30pm

Grab your boots, trowel and magnifying glass and join in the muddy fun at New Lanark’s Bug Hunters!

Bug Hunters is a fun and outdoors nature session at New Lanark’s Clearburn Park, packed with creepy crawlies, wetlands plants and some nature crafts!

Location: Clearburn Park, New Lanark Visitor Centre, New Lanark
Session includes:
- Bug spotting at our Bug “Air bee ‘n’ bee”
- Find your tree in Which Tree is Me
- Nature crafts!
- Roast marshmallows at our (supervised!) firepit

Recommended age: 5 to 12 years old. Children must be able to walk around the site comfortably.

Suitable footwear and clothing is recommended (boots/trainers/jacket).

If you have your own trowel, you are welcome to bring it along (otherwise trowels will be supplied!).

Being Responsible in Nature

As part of the Lanarkshire Climate Action Festival, we encourage families to explore how we can all care for the natural world around us.

Any wood used during activities is sourced from naturally fallen or dead trees and is never taken from living trees. We are always mindful of the materials we use and where they come from. We also recognise the important role that dead wood plays in woodland ecosystems, so suitable habitat is always left in place to support wildlife and biodiversity.

These themes may be explored during the session through simple, age-appropriate conversations about trees, wildlife, renewable resources and how we can all help protect our woodlands and green spaces.

Fire Pit Information

The supervised fire pit forms part of the outdoor learning experience. At present, the event location is not within an area considered to be at high risk of wildfire. However, weather conditions and environmental risks will be continually monitored, and the use of the fire pit will be reviewed and reassessed if conditions change.

Limited spaces – early booking recommended

Session 2: Family Friendly Afternoon Session – Hydropower Tour – 2pm-3pm

Step back in time and uncover how the River Clyde helped shape Scotland’s industrial and energy heritage. From the founding of the New Lanark mills in the 18th century, to the development of pioneering hydroelectric schemes, you’ll hear fascinating insights into how water power drove industry, supported communities, and continues to generate renewable energy today.

Starting location – New Lanark Visitor Centre
FREE – tickets must be booked in advance

Limited spaces – early booking recommended – book here

Learn more about Lanarkshire Climate Action Festival here