Project of the week

Located at the foot of the spectacular Falls of Clyde, the unique cotton spinning mill village of New Lanark was established in 1785. Between 1800 and 1824, social pioneer Robert Owen made New Lanark world famous as a showpiece village of the industrial revolution, with his focus on educational reform for workers. Owen's 'New Institute for the Formation of Character', a social and educational centre for villagers, was completed in 1816.

When cotton production ceased in 1968, New Lanark went into rapid decline. Following a local authority report in 1973, the village was designated a Conservation Area, its buildings listed Grade A.

In 1984, New Lanark Trust assumed ownership and embarked upon an ambitious programme of revitalisation. The AHF supported work on the Institute, the Engine House and Mill 3. While the Institute was transformed into the New Lanark Visitor Centre, the Engine House – originally built onto the west gable of the Institute in 1881 – was brought back to life to house a textile steam engine salvaged from another mill. Mill 3, which dates from 1826, now comprises of a significant part of the Visitor Attraction, New Lanark Gift Shop, an Archive and Search Room, and the New Lanark Mill Café.

Today, New Lanark has been beautifully restored as a living and working community, and is a major visitor attraction. Now recognised by UNESCO as one of Scotland’s seven World Heritage Sites, it continues to welcome visitors from all over the world to learn all about its fascinating history.   

“Looking back over 40 years since the first AHF funding in 1986, it’s inspiring to see how far New Lanark has come. From a derelict site in decline to a thriving community, visitor destination and World Heritage Site, that support set us on a journey that continues to honour the vision of its founders. This March 2026, as we mark 240 years since the mills first began production, it’s a perfect moment to celebrate everyone who has helped shape New Lanark into what it is today.”

Kate Lapping, Head of Heritage at New Lanark