West Lothian
West Lothian is ideally placed along the main transport links to Edinburgh and Glasgow which makes it a particularly popular place to live for those who commute daily into the cities. It also ensures that visiting the region is quick and easy, so there are no excuses for not doing so! Balancing history and culture with modern entertainments, a trip to West Lothian presents so many diverse opportunities there is always something to interest everyone.
The Royal Burgh of Linlithgow was once the main town of the district, and was the centre of much activity and development through the ages. Linlithgow Palace was built here in 1424 due to its position, virtually equidistant between the royal residences of Stirling and Edinburgh. It was the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots, and today it is one of Scotland’s most spectacular ruins. Blackness Castle, also in ruins, was much more of a formidable defensive position, whilst the House of the Binns and Hopetoun House remain inhabited by the families who made them to this very day.
A thriving town has been built up around it, making Linlithgow an excellent place for a day visit. Besides history, there are plenty of sports facilities, outdoor pursuits, family activities and places to eat. In stark contrast to Linlithgow, the new centre of West Lothian is Livingston, a 20th century built town. It has no high street but instead a series of shopping centres that includes the popular McArthur Glen Designer Outlet.
