Strathaven (pronounced ‘stray-ven’) displays its medieval origins in its Common Green, a market square around which the town is laid out. The town centre still holds a number of craft and gift shops, and there is a garden centre and auction market. Strathaven was home to a brewery until it was destroyed by fire in 1847. Strathaven Ale is now brewed nearby in Craigmill. Each year in August the town holds a Balloon Festival, the only hot air ballooning event of its kind in Scotland. Bus services connect the town to local destinations such as East Kilbride, Hamilton and Larkhall, which has the nearest train station.
The town also holds a variety of historical places of interest. Strathaven Castle is thought to have been built in the mid-14th century. The remaining ruins sit atop a rocky crag surrounded by Powmillon Burn and can still be seen today. According to local legend, Strathaven Castle is home to the ghost of the White Lady, a lord's wife who was walled up alive by her husband. The castle is linked to the town by the 'Boo Backit Brig', a small arched bridge, and the old Town Mill which stands next to it is now a Arts and Heritage Centre. Strathaven Park has a miniature railway which runs at weekends during the summer. East Church, built in 1777, is known for its landmark spire and was the place of worship for the Duke of Hamilton who maintained a summer home nearby at Dungavel House. Strathaven also contains Lauder Ha', a mansion built by renowned Scottish entertainer Harry Lauder upon his retirement. A short walk from the town is the Spectacle E'e waterfall.
Drumclog Monument sits around five miles out of the town and marks the site were the Battle of Drumclog was fought in 1679. Strathaven is also home to the Covenanters’ Trail, which visits many historic sites situated around the town, including the graves of William Gordon, William Dingwall, John Barrie and William Paterson, Auchengilloch Monument and the Trumpeter's Well.