Strathaven, (pronounced Stra'ven) located off the A71/A726, 7 miles south west of Hamilton. This pretty conservation village owes its roots to weaving but today is a sought after dormintory residential area for the larger towns nearby. The ruins of Strathaven Castle, (also known as Avondale Castle) stands on a mound on the edge of the village. Built around 1460 by the grandson of the 2nd Duke of Albany, Lord Avondale. In 1611 Strathhaven was sold to James, 2nd Marquis of Hamilton and it remained in that family for three hundred years. Harry Lauder the famous 20th century kilted singer with the gnarled walking stick once had a house here, it was called Lauder Ha' and still be seen. ... < more >