Shopping in Strathaven is centered in and around the Common Green and adjacent streets. There are no shopping malls, but a collection of mainly independant shops, restaurants and tearooms.

The common green
In the late 17th century, the common green was a lane which was surrounded by cottages with gardens in front of them. The lane was used as a venue for markets and as a consequence the gardens gradually receded. There now only exists one house on the green with a front garden.

Waterside Street
Parallel to the Common Green is Waterside Street which is the site for the oldest baker's shop in the town. Alexander Taylor set up business in 1820 and now has specialist bakery, shop and cafe.

At one end of Waterside Street is the 'boo-backit bridge', an 18th century construction which crosses the Powmillon Burn. As the bridge originally led to the area of Strathaven known as the 'Skippy', (named because it was the site of the dance hall), it is also known as the 'Skippy Brig'.

Green Street
The well known Weavers Bar is situated in Green Street, and at the other end of the street is Allison Green. This green was set up by four of the Strathaven 'friendly societies' to provide drying and bleaching facilities, including a wash house. The green was bought and presented to the town in 1890 by James Allison, a local grocer who emigrated to Australia.


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