Carluke

Town in South Lanarkshire unitary authority, Scotland, 11km/7 mi southeast of Motherwell; population (2001) 13,500. The area was a former coal and ironstone mining centre, but this industry has declined. Agriculture and horticulture, particularly soft fruits and flowers, now form the basis of its economy, along with light engineering and food processing factories. The town has undergone rapid expansion as a residential and commuter dormitory for Glasgow.

Carluke has its origins in medieval times when it was a stopping place for travellers. The main period of growth came with iron, coal, and lime mining in the 18th and 19th centuries. Other industries in the town were tailoring and drapery, furniture-making, and brick and clay works. The last colliery closed in the early 1950s.

Carluke has a large high school. It is also Home to Carluke Opera and a number of flute and pipe bands.