Hot Water Pond

There's a thermal pool hidden in the hills above Lanark that most people drive straight past. Hot Water Pond is exactly what it sounds like - a naturally warm stretch of water that's been drawing locals for decades, though the infrastructure around it is frankly a bit rough around the edges.

The pond itself sits in moorland, and on a clear day the views across South Lanarkshire are genuinely impressive. You can wade in if you fancy it, though the experience is more "bracing dip" than spa day. The water temperature varies depending on rainfall and season, so don't expect bathwater conditions year-round. It's the kind of place where the appeal lies in the novelty and the walk rather than creature comforts.

Really this is for the curious and the adventurous - people who enjoy a bit of exploring off the main tourist trail. Families with older kids who don't mind a muddy scramble will get something out of it, but toddlers and anyone after a polished attraction should probably look elsewhere.

There's no visitor centre or facilities to speak of, so bring what you need. It's free to visit, and the walk from Lanark takes about an hour depending on your fitness level. If you're staying at Ecosse Glamping nearby, it makes a decent half-day excursion to break up a park holiday, though don't build your entire trip around it. Go if you're in the area and fancy something a bit different. Don't go out of your way.