Wee Row in New Lanark

Historic hostel in this World Heritage Site.

I can’t believe I’ve never visited New Lanark. My excuses are reduced now I’ve learned a bit about Wee Row Hostel as well. I’ve read so much about it and yet the number of times I driven past the sign to New Lanark on my way to see family in Glasgow! 

It is a UNESCO World Heritage site because of its place in the industrial heritage of the world – being a model village built on Utopian socialist principles by one of those Victorian philanthropists. It shares a bit of history with the World Heritage site I can see from my office window, Derwent Valley Mills, as Richard Arkwright had a strong hand in both. That’s another reason to have visited.

Nowadays it is a justly famous visitor attraction for its lovely location and living industrial history. Modern visitors admire the waterfalls for enjoyment of the landscape, where in times past they were viewed with an eye for energy and power. 

Have a look at this map which is alive with hyperlinks, and you’ll get an idea of what New Lanark has to offer. And see that little row of buildings at the bottom? That’s Wee Row, a hostel right in the heart of it all. It sleeps 62 guests in 18 private rooms all with en suites and as you can imagine, has terrific views over the River Clyde and surrounding countryside. 

There is a comfortable dining area and TV lounge as well as  a modern fully equipped self-catering kitchen although breakfasts and dinners can be provided if you don’t fancy cooking. WiFi is complimentary throughout the public areas. Classic hostel facilities include bike storage and a laundry and drying room.  

I’ve got no reason to keep ignoring it have I?