Traveling to Scotland for the first time? This Hamilton Scotland travel guide comes from my short but memorable Trusted Housesitters cat-sit in the historic town of Hamilton, South Lanarkshire. I traveled from the London area by bus—a budget-friendly and scenic alternative to pricey train tickets. In just a few days, I discovered local foods, peaceful nature walks, historic buildings, and that unmistakable Scottish charm—even in chilly October weather.
Whether you’re planning a relaxing getaway, visiting nearby Glasgow, or doing a house sit of your own, this guide covers everything you need to know—from what to see and eat to local tips for making the most of your stay.
Where Is Hamilton & How to Get There
📍 Hamilton is located in South Lanarkshire, about 12 miles southeast of Glasgow, making it a perfect base to explore central Scotland.
🚌 From London: I took a long-distance bus, which took around 9–11 hours depending on the route. If you have the time, buses like National Express or Megabus are far more affordable than trains.
🚆 From Glasgow: Frequent local trains from Glasgow Central Station reach Hamilton in about 20–30 minutes.
💡 Tip: If you fly into Glasgow or Edinburgh, you can easily reach Hamilton by train or car.
Things to Do in Hamilton, Scotland
Hike at Chatelherault Country Park
This 500-acre park is a former hunting ground for the Dukes of Hamilton, featuring ancient woodlands, scenic trails, and a grand 18th-century hunting lodge. It’s the perfect place for a fall hike with a picnic, especially when the leaves are golden and crisp.
➡️ Visit Chatelherault
See the Hamilton Mausoleum
Although it wasn’t open during my visit, the Hamilton Mausoleum is famous for its 90-second echo, one of the longest in the world! The building’s imposing architecture makes it worth admiring from the outside.
➡️ Read more on Wikipedia
Walk in Bothwell Road Park
Right in the city center, this large park has a beautiful lake, historic statues, and walking paths. It’s a relaxing place for a quiet afternoon stroll.
Catch a Movie at the Local Cinema
I saw Lee, a powerful film about Lee Miller, a real-life model turned war photographer. The local theater was cozy and affordable—perfect for a solo evening out.
Tea & Scones at a Local Teahouse
My favorite treat? A fresh scone with cream and jam, paired with a hot chocolate on a chilly afternoon. Don’t leave Scotland without trying this classic combo!
What to Expect When Visiting Hamilton
Friendly locals – People are warm, chatty, and willing to help.
Cool, damp weather – Even in October, the weather felt like winter-lite! Pack layers.
Cat-sitting bonus – My host’s cat had a funny routine of leaving through the window and meowing at night to be let back in. She stayed warm with cozy blankets and didn’t spend a single night outside.
Suburban charm – Hamilton is more relaxed than big cities like Edinburgh or Glasgow, but still has parks, cafés, and supermarkets nearby.🚶♀️ Walkability – Much of the town is walkable, but it helps to be near the train station or a bus line.
Typical Foods to Try in Scotland
- Macaroni pie – A mix between mac & cheese and a meat pie.
- Scotch pies – Flaky meat-filled pastries you can find in bakeries or grocery stores.
- Ready meals with haggis or neeps & tatties – Great way to sample local cuisine on a budget.
- Empire biscuits & yum yums – Local sweets you’ll find in most bakeries.
- Irn-Bru – Scotland’s iconic bright-orange soda.
- Scone with cream and jam – Best served with tea or hot chocolate!
Tip: Check out the chilled meal section of any major supermarket (like Tesco or Morrisons) to try local flavors without breaking the bank.
Hamilton Packing List (Year-Round Essentials)
Whether you’re visiting for a short trip or a long stay, here’s what to pack:
Year-Round Musts
- Portable charger and adapters
- Waterproof jacket
- Good walking shoes
- Reusable water bottle
SIM card or unlocked phone (see bonus tip below)
Fall & Winter (Oct–March)
- Warm layers (sweaters, thermal tops)
- Gloves, scarf, and beanie
- Waterproof boots or shoes
- Indoor loungewear for cozy evenings
Spring & Summer (April–Sept)
- Light layers, umbrella
- Sunglasses and sunscreen (yes, even in Scotland!)
- Hiking clothes if visiting parks or the Highlands
Bonus Digital Nomad Tip: Buy a Local SIM Card at the Airport
If you’re working remotely or just need strong internet on the go:
Buy a local SIM card at the airport when you land—don’t rely on roaming.
- Go with the biggest carrier, like EE or Vodafone, for the best coverage—not just the cheapest option.
- Get a big data plan if you plan to hotspot, make video calls, or navigate frequently.
Many SIMs come pre-loaded and active, and staff can help install it on-site.
Final Thoughts: Why I Loved Hamilton
My short stay in Hamilton was filled with cozy moments, friendly people, and surprisingly beautiful nature. From walking through golden leaves in the park to indulging in scones and seeing a thought-provoking film, this Scottish town made a big impression on me.
If you’re passing through or planning a unique stop in your UK journey—especially if you’re a digital nomad, pet-sitter, or slow traveler—Hamilton is absolutely worth a few days.
Plan Your Own Scottish Adventure!
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