Discover Motherwell by Campervan: Complete Guide
Introduction
Welcome to Motherwell, a charming city located in Scotland, that has many surprises in store for you during your road trip.
In this travel guide for van travellers, we will give you tips on how to get to the city, share the best times of the year for an unforgettable visit, and guide you to the best places to taste the local culinary delights. And even if you’ve never heard of this city before, you may be surprised just like we were.
Don’t like to read? A video is available later in the article or by clicking here.
What is Motherwell – Scotland?
History of Motherwell
Motherwell is a city of 30,000 inhabitants that has experienced both prosperous periods and economic downturns, much like many industrial cities.
Indeed, in the 19th century, Motherwell became an important industrial center thanks to the exploitation of its natural resources, particularly coal mines and steelworks. This period marked a decisive turning point for the city, giving it an industrial identity and attracting workers from all over the country.
Today, Motherwell has evolved into a modern city, where history harmoniously blends with the present. It is now home to many call centers and offices. For whisky connoisseurs, the city’s largest employer is William Grant & Sons.
Its industrial heritage is still visible through its iconic landmarks and historic buildings, reminding all visitors of the importance of this city in Scotland’s development.
Geographical location
Its strategic position along the River Clyde gives it easy access to the sea, opening up a world of opportunities for trade and tourism. Its proximity to Glasgow, one of Scotland’s most dynamic cities, offers an endless array of cultural activities and entertainment options, this town is also less than an hour from a city that we really liked: Stirling
How to get to Motherwell?
To get to Motherwell by plane, you can land at the nearest airport, Glasgow International Airport, which is about 34 kilometers from Motherwell. It is served by several national and international airlines.
Many major cities near Motherwell also have national airports. Glasgow Airport is about 50 kilometers from Motherwell, Edinburgh Airport is about 50 kilometers away, and Prestwick Airport is about 60 kilometers away. These airports also offer national and international flights.
Once you arrive at the airport, you can take a taxi or rent a car to get to Motherwell.
To get to Motherwell by train, you can take national and international train lines that pass through nearby train stations.
The nearest train station to Motherwell is Motherwell Station, which is served by many national and international trains. You can take a train from the capital of Scotland, Edinburgh, or from other major cities like Glasgow or London.
Once at Motherwell Station, you can take a taxi or use public transportation to reach your final destination.
To get to Motherwell by car or campervan from the capital of Scotland, Edinburgh, you can take the M8 motorway westbound. Continue on the motorway until you reach the exit for Motherwell.
If you are coming from other major cities in Scotland or from other countries, you can also use the M74 motorway, which passes near Motherwell.
Once you are near Motherwell, follow the signs to reach your final destination in the city.
To access the United Kingdom, we did not go through the Channel Tunnel or take the Ferry from Calais, we left from the Netherlands! From Rotterdam, it is quite possible to quickly reach the United Kingdom. So, just follow the East coast of the Netherlands to reach the wonderful world that Scotland is!
Climate: When to visit Motherwell on a Road Trip?
| Month | Average temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Weather | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 3°/7° | 83mm | 🌧️ | Very unfavorable |
| February | 3°/7° | 66mm | 🌧️ | Unfavorable |
| March | 4°/9° | 61mm | 🌧️ | Unfavorable |
| April | 6°/11° | 51mm | 🌧️ | Unfavorable |
| May | 9°/15° | 50mm | 🌦️ | Not favorable |
| June | 12°/18° | 53mm | 🌦️ | Not favorable |
| July | 14°/20° | 60mm | 🌦️ | Not favorable |
| August | 13°/19° | 64mm | 🌦️ | Not favorable |
| September | 11°/17° | 65mm | 🌦️ | Not favorable |
| October | 8°/14° | 73mm | 🌧️ | Very unfavorable |
| November | 5°/10° | 80mm | 🌧️ | Very unfavorable |
| December | 3°/7° | 84mm | 🌧️ | Very unfavorable |
“If we had to give you one advice, visit this charming city of Motherwell during the summer months to fully enjoy its mild and pleasant climate. The temperatures range between 15 and 20 degrees Celsius, which is perfect for exploring its beautiful parks, gardens, and historical monuments.”
Spots to Sleep and Motorhome Service Areas in Motherwell
- 📍🥇 Strathclyde Country Park: A motorhome park located near the beautiful Strathclyde Lake.
- 📍🥈 Dalzell Estate: A peaceful motorhome spot nestled in the heart of the famous Dalzell Estate.
- 📍🥉 Strathclyde Park Caravan and Motorhome Club Site: A motorhome-friendly site with modern facilities and friendly service.
- 📍 Jerviston Caravan Park: A charming motorhome spot located on the banks of the River Clyde.
- 📍 Braidhurst Caravan Park: A peaceful park surrounded by vast green spaces and a tranquil atmosphere.
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Our choice fell on Strathclyde Country Park. We spent some time in this park, which was a short stop, as it is a city where we did not spend the night and where we only made a very pleasant stopover.
Where and what to eat in Motherwell?
Restaurants in Motherwell
- 🍽️Wonder Cafe: The Wonder Cafe also offers vegetarian and vegan options to satisfy all tastes.
- 🍽️ Le Petit Bistro: Enjoy delicious French dishes in this charming little bistro, and yes there are French people in Scotland, we met several restaurateurs
- 🍽️ La Famiglia: Crispy pizzas, fresh pasta, and tasty desserts will transport you to Italy without leaving Motherwell.
- 🍽️ The Spice Hub: If you love spicy and flavorful Indian cuisine, look no further than The Spice Hub.
- 🍽️ The Fisherman’s Cove: A must-visit for seafood lovers, The Fisherman’s Cove offers a diverse selection of dishes made with fresh fish. Whether it’s shrimp, salmon, or scallops, you’ll find something to delight your taste buds in this coastal restaurant.
Specialties of Motherwell
Motherwell also offers delicious dishes such as cullen skink, a thick soup made with smoked fish and potatoes, as well as the iconic Scotch pie, a delicious meat pie that will delight comfort food lovers.
We did not choose the French restaurant, and no! We preferred to eat at The Fisherman’s Cove because we felt like seafood. And once again, this country delighted us with all the products that come from its surrounding waters. It’s called an island for a reason (well, a big island, anyway).
Travel Budget for a Road Trip to Motherwell
– Meal in a mid-range restaurant: € 29 (+16% compared to 🇫🇷)
– Fast food menu: € 7 (-23% compared to 🇫🇷)
– Local beer (50 cl draft): € 4.5 (-25% compared to 🇫🇷)
– Single public transport ticket: € 2.9 (+76% compared to 🇫🇷)
– Monthly public transport pass: € 76 (+51% compared to 🇫🇷)
– Unleaded gasoline (1 liter): € 1.65 (+6% compared to 🇫🇷)
– Cheap hotel (double room): € 68 (+18% compared to 🇫🇷)
– Mid-range hotel (double room): € 104 (+25% compared to 🇫🇷)
– High-end hotel (double room): € 173 (-38% compared to 🇫🇷)
– Pair of jeans (Levis 501 or equivalent): € 68 (-16% compared to 🇫🇷)
– Summer dress in a chain store (Zara, H&M…): € 34 (-3% compared to 🇫🇷)
– Pair of sport shoes: € 73 (-13% compared to 🇫🇷)
Well, in terms of budget for traveling to Motherwell, you’ll need to be a bit more frugal. Meal prices in mid-range restaurants are slightly higher, with an increase of 16% compared to France.
However, you’ll be able to enjoy affordable prices for fast food menus and local beers, which are respectively 23% and 25% cheaper than in France. So, if you’re a fan of street food and pubs, you can save money while indulging in delicious treats.
So get ready to discover Scottish cuisine and save some money along the way!
Video of our city trip in this city
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What activities to do in Motherwell?
Here is a list of activities we recommend for you in Motherwell based on your tastes and preferences:
– Take a romantic walk in Strathclyde Country Park
– Have a candlelit dinner in one of the city’s romantic restaurants
– Take a boat ride on Dalzell Lake
– Visit the Scottish National Football Museum
– Attend a theatrical performance at the Motherwell Concert Hall and Theatre
– Explore the city’s art galleries
– Play a round of golf at the Motherwell Golf Club
– Attend a local football match with the FC Motherwell team
– Swim or workout at the Wishaw Sports Centre
– Participate in the Motherwell Carnival, which takes place every summer
– Attend the Motherwell Music Festival, which offers outdoor concerts
– Enjoy shows and entertainment at the city’s annual festival
Conclusion: Why visit or come back to Motherwell?
In conclusion, Motherwell is a city that will be a stopover after the two major cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow. It won’t be the most memorable stop, but it’s a welcoming place with its typical atmosphere of the southern part of the country. Still, make a stop in this city, if only for its fish. Especially if you spend a long time in Scotland, as this city represents a forgotten past of workers. If you only stay in this country for a short time, continue on your way!
FAQ
To get to Motherwell by car or campervan from Edinburgh, you can take the M8 motorway westbound and follow the signs for the exit for Motherwell. If you are coming from other major cities in Scotland or from other countries, you can also use the M74 motorway. Once near Motherwell, follow the signs to reach your final destination in the city.
Motherwell offers a range of culinary delights not to be missed. Among the local specialties, you will find the famous haggis, a traditional Scottish dish made with sheep’s stomach stuffed with offal, oats, and spices. You can also enjoy cullen skink, a thick soup made with smoked fish and potatoes, as well as the Scotch pie, a delicious meat pie. These dishes will delight your taste buds and offer you an authentic gastronomic experience.
Motherwell offers a wide range of activities for all tastes. If you are looking for romance, you can take a romantic stroll in Strathclyde Country Park, have a candlelit dinner in one of the city’s romantic restaurants, or take a boat ride on Dalzell Lake. If you are more interested in cultural activities, you can visit the Scottish National Football Museum, attend a theatrical performance at the Motherwell Concert Hall and Theatre, or explore the city’s art galleries. Sports enthusiasts can play golf at the Motherwell Golf Club, attend a local football match with the FC Motherwell team, or swim or work out at the Wishaw Sports Centre. Finally, if you are in Motherwell during an annual event, don’t miss the Motherwell Carnival, attend the Motherwell Music Festival, or enjoy the shows and entertainment at the city’s annual festival.
If we had to give you one advice, we recommend visiting Motherwell during the summer months to fully enjoy its mild and pleasant climate. The temperatures range between 15 and 20 degrees Celsius, which is ideal for exploring the parks, gardens, and historical monuments of the city. In addition, you can participate in the numerous festivals and cultural events that animate Motherwell during this time. So don’t hesitate, plan your trip now and discover all the wonders that Motherwell has to offer!
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