Summer at New Lanark 2026

Step into a summer of dinosaurs, discovery and family adventure

Make this summer one to remember at New Lanark. From roaring dinosaurs to hands‑on activities and just the right amount of gruesome history, there is something here for curious minds of every age. With fresh experiences for 2026 and savings on family tickets, it is the perfect time to plan a day out that everyone will enjoy.

Summer Savings - Make the most of summer at New Lanark with 15% off selected experiences from 25 June to 1 September.

Enjoy a great day out for less with savings on general admission tickets, soft play entry and selected children’s menu items. It is the perfect way to explore the village, keep little ones entertained and take a break together without stretching the budget. Plan your visit and enjoy more of New Lanark this summer.

What's on this summer at New Lanark?

Dinosaur Weekend & Jurassic Lanark

This summer, dinosaurs arrive at New Lanark as part of the Jurassic Lanark Explorer Trail. From 4 July to 9 August, follow the Jurassic Lanark Explorer Trail as it winds its way through the village. Keep your eyes peeled for dinosaurs hiding across the site and enjoy discovering each stop along the way. Join us on 4 and 5 July to launch the Jurassic Lanark Explorer Trail, with hands on activities, a lively Dino Disco, and plenty to discover across the village. It is the perfect family day out, with something to enjoy at every turn.

Mini Mills Explorers at New Lanark

From digging up fossils, to weaving wonders, we're stepping back in time this Summer! Enjoy a programme of activities at New Lanark, brought to life by our historic characters. Step into the Village Store with Mr Melrose, join Miss Whitwell and Mr Buchanan for engaging natural history lessons, discover traditional weaving with Mr Mills, and explore childhood through time with Molly Young and her toys from the past. With sessions running throughout the day, there is always something to experience as you explore the village.

On selected weekdays at 12pm-4pm from Tuesday 30th of June to Thursday 20th of August, we’re running fun sessions for the whole family to get involved in!

Activity Guide

• Botanical drawing and fossil digging
Get creative and curious as you sketch plants and explore real fossils. A relaxed, hands-on session that blends art with discovery in the Historic Classroom.

• Weaving Workshop
Have a go at traditional weaving techniques and see how cloth was made at New Lanark. A simple, guided activity suitable for all ages.

• Become a Grocer’s Apprentice in the 1820s Village Store
Step into the role of a shopkeeper and experience how goods were bought and sold in the 19th century. Cut, pack and prepare foods just as it would have been done.

• Toys from the past
Play, explore and learn with traditional toys in a fun, informal session led by our nursery teacher. A great way for younger visitors to connect with the past.

What’s on each day

Tuesdays
• Botanical drawing and fossil digging
• Weaving

Wednesdays
• Grocer’s Apprentice
• Toys from the past
• Weaving

Thursdays
• Grocer’s Apprentice
• Weaving
• Toys from the past

Good to know
All activities are included with a standard Visitor Centre admission ticket. Simply arrive on the day and join in.

The Bug Man’s Tour: Bugs, Bruises & Bobbins

Calling all Mini Millworkers! Join our resident bug hunter for a wonderfully revolting tour of New Lanark. Tasked with keeping the village clear of creepy crawlies, they will share the dirtier, smellier side of life in the mills… though not every pest manages to escape. Packed with laughs, and surprises, this interactive tour helps younger visitors discover the less glamorous side of history in a fun and memorable way. Perfect for children aged 4–12 Adults go free with a child ticket. Tours run every Saturday and Sunday throughout the summer holidays at 12pm.

Book tickets

Fairy Day with Corra the Clearburn Fairy

Join us on Friday 24th July in Clearburn Park for a gentle and magical way to celebrate International Fairy Day. Designed for children aged 1 to 6, this relaxed outdoor session invites little ones to enjoy a fairy story, make their own fairy door and take part in a simple scavenger hunt to uncover a hidden message. Sessions at 12pm and 2pm, and last around 45 minutes. Tickets cost £6 per child, adults go free!

Bug Hunters

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! Monday 20th of July and Monday 27th of July 11:30am-1pm. Tickets cost £6.80

Book tickets

We can't wait to welcome you at New Lanark this summer!

Be sure to make the most of the summer savings offer and share your #MillMagic with us on social media!