Attractions galore at Victorian Fair

Aug 28 2008 by George Topp, Lanark & Carluke

VISITORS to New Lanark step back in time next month when the World Heritage village hosts the annual Victorian-themed street Fair.

Opening at midday on September 7 with a parade by Lanark Pipe Band, the Fair promises to be one to remember, with the special addition of a menagerie – reminiscent of events and times at the mills in years gone by.

Back in the 1800s, records show that the New Lanark schoolchildren were amazed by a travelling menagerie of wild beasts, which included a crocodile.

At this year's Victorian Fair, visitors can come face-to-face with, amongst other animals, a bearded dragon, a python, and a skunk!

The main village square will be packed full of stalls and sideshows, while the entertainment programme will provide something for everyone – from clowns to Can Can dancers.

A group from Scotland’s last remaining music hall, the Britannia Panopticon in Glasgow, will be performing and making a right old song and dance of things.

Joining them in entertaining the crowds will be a magician, face painter, Scottish country dancers, puppet show, bird of prey flying displays, and much more.

There will be a variety of craft, gift, and charity stalls. Many of the stalls at the event are organised by New Lanark villagers, who attend dressed in Victorian costume. There will also be plenty of food and drink stalls, including a beer tent.

The annual event raises money for the New Lanark Village Group, an independent charity which represents the interests of the villagers and helps keep New Lanark a living community. Entrance on the day costs just £5 per car.