Things to do & places to visit in West Lothian, United Kingdom

West Lothian #77 destination in United Kingdom 2023. The average rating score is 4.46 based on 7.567 traveler reviews, of 30 attractions. Timezone: Europe/London, current date and time: Monday, May 06, 2024, 8:59.

Top things to do (26)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Matugga Distillers (46 reviews)
- Distillery Tour and Tasting Session - A Great Night Out!
Spent 1-2 hours Distilleries

Don't let the exterior of this building fool you, what's inside is a hidden gem! We visited the Matugga distillery for a tour and rum tasting session and what a great evening we had! We were greeted by our lovely hosts with music and cocktails, really cool vibe! Learning about the rum making process was fascinating, Paul and Jacine's passion really shines through. The rum tasting was an experience in itself! The food pairings were spot on and the different varieties of rum mean there's something to suit everyone. They also offer a cocktail selection box, which has a QR code linked to their play list, loved this! Also on offer was a cheeky wee discount on any purchases on the night, so obviously we came home with a delicious and diverse selection! Would definitely recommend a visit here, whether you're a seasoned rum drinker or a newbie to the delights, you will not be disappointed! Huge thank you to both Jacine and Paul for sharing the wonderful world of rum with us! See more..
5.0 West Lothian Local History Library (6 reviews)
- Old West Lothian link to the Past
Spent 1-2 hours Libraries

Spotted the sign for the library archives and went in to have a browse . Talked to a very knowledgeable librarian who showed me how to access information .with sections for each town and area .Absolutely fascinating .With thousands of old photographs ,pamphlets and newspaper on micro fiche . A godsend for tourists whose kin used to live in the area.Censuses ,Parish registers,international Genealogical index for Scotland and Ireland and much much more . advice would be take a few notes on what you are looking for ......I came across a photo of the shale oil industry in Pumpherston and was amazed at the size of the operation and the refinery that was built there .You need to go with a bit of time to spare as it gets quite absorbing once you start looking through the shelves See more..
5.0 Matugga Distillers (46 reviews)
- Distillery Tour and Tasting Session - A Great Night Out!
Spent 1-2 hours Distilleries

Don't let the exterior of this building fool you, what's inside is a hidden gem! We visited the Matugga distillery for a tour and rum tasting session and what a great evening we had! We were greeted by our lovely hosts with music and cocktails, really cool vibe! Learning about the rum making process was fascinating, Paul and Jacine's passion really shines through. The rum tasting was an experience in itself! The food pairings were spot on and the different varieties of rum mean there's something to suit everyone. They also offer a cocktail selection box, which has a QR code linked to their play list, loved this! Also on offer was a cheeky wee discount on any purchases on the night, so obviously we came home with a delicious and diverse selection! Would definitely recommend a visit here, whether you're a seasoned rum drinker or a newbie to the delights, you will not be disappointed! Huge thank you to both Jacine and Paul for sharing the wonderful world of rum with us! See more..
4.5 Five Sisters Zoo (2.027 reviews)
- Fabulous Day out for all the family
Monday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Zoos

The Five Sisters Zoo offers a great value family day out for all the family. With over 120 different species from all around the world from bats to bears and lemurs to lynx everyone has their favourites. Daily handling sessions, keeper talks and feed the lemur sessions. School and groups are most welcome, group rates available. Please see the website for full details and admission charges. Open all year. See more..
4.5 Linlithgow Palace (1.419 reviews)
- Historic Stunner
Temporarily closed - Closed until further notice Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Architectural Buildings • Castles

Due to access restrictions in place as a precautionary measure while we undertake high level masonry inspections, there is currently no visitor access to the palace. The gatehouse and grounds are open. The main gate may be locked when no staff are on duty, however there is pedestrian access. The magnificent ruin of a great Royal Palace set in its own park and beside Linlithgow Loch. A favoured residence of the Stewart kings and queens from James I (1406-37) onward. Building work commissioned by James I, III, IV, V and VI can be seen. The great hall and chapel are particularly fine. James V (1512) and Mary Queen of Scots (1542) were both born here. Surfaces inside the Palace are mainly stone slabs and small cobbles in the courtyard. The ticket office, shop and courtyard are accessible to visitors with disabilities. More mobile visitors should be able to access the first floor which forms the main part of the property. Access is available to Linlithgow Loch and extensive peel (park). See more..
4.5 Blackness Castle (867 reviews)
- An absolute RAY of sunshine.
Monday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Historic Sites • Castles

Built in the 15th century and massively strengthened in the 16th century as an artillery fortress, Blackness Castle has been a royal castle, prison, armaments depot and film location for Hamlet and the BBC production of Ivanhoe. Blackness Castle is often referred to as ‘the ship that never sailed’ due to its great stone ship appearance. From the castle you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Firth of Forth and Fife. See more..
4.5 Almond Valley Heritage Centre (603 reviews)
- Super Value
Monday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Nature & Wildlife Areas • Farms • Children's Museums

A family-friendly museum on a peaceful riverside site with friendly farm animals, working watermill and interactive displays. Explore fields and woodland walks, join in daily demonstrations and activities, and let the kids go wild in playgrounds, pedal carts and trampolines. Take a trip by tractor, ride the narrow-gauge railway, explore the museum, or bounce around in the indoor soft play area. There is lots to see and do at Almond Valley indoors and out. See more..
4.5 Scottish Owl Centre (375 reviews)
- Well worth a visit!!!
Monday: 11:30 AM - 4:00 PM Nature & Wildlife Areas

We visited the centre with a gentleman we support. The site is wheelchair friendly mostly with some gravel areas but easy enough to get around. Staff were lovely and informative. Entry price reasonable (carers go free). We enjoyed walking around seeing the different varieties of owls. We also saw the flyng show which was brilliant for all ages. The girl (purple hair) was fantastic and gave loads of information on the 2 owls she was showcasing, and she had them flying around the arena lots of times. Well worth the effort to get there. Highly recommended. See more..
4.5 Beecraigs Country Park (329 reviews)
- Great Caravan Park
Spent More than 3 hours Parks

Open All year. We even enjoyed it in the snow, hail and storms. Very welcoming and friendly staff especially in the on-site cafe. Huge hard standing bays for motorhomes or caravans. Superb toilet/shower/laundry/dish washing facilities. There's even a washing line for hanging up your wet stuff. Great dog walks all around. Linlithgow town is NOT withing walking distance but a walk round Linlithgow loch right at the base of the castle is worth the 5min drive. See more..
4.5 St. Michael's Parish Church (197 reviews)
- Beautiful historic church
Monday: 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM Ancient Ruins • Religious Sites

It is a historical church, although rebuilt in some parts. A fabulous church with impressive architecture and stained glass windows.The churchyard is worth a look as well. The cemetery is full of headstones worth taking a look at . Even if you come here primarily for the palace, this church adjoining the palace is very beautiful. Definitely worth visiting for just a few minutes. See more..
4.5 Linlithgow Canal Centre (190 reviews)
- Fab 30th Private Hire
Monday: Speciality Museums

Linlithgow Canal Centre is run entirely by unpaid volunteers. Boat Trips, Canal Museum, Tea Room, Charters and Self-drive Boat Hire. A great day out for the family! Located close to Linlithgow railway station. 1:00 to 4:30pm. Open weekends from 31st March until 30 September. Midweek 2nd July to 24th August. Canal Fun day Sunday 19th August from 1pm - 5pm ~ (Cardboard Boat Race starts at 3:00pm) See more..
4.5 Linlithgow Loch (147 reviews)
- A peaceful Loch close to Linlithgow town centre
Bodies of Water

Linlithgow Loch Short Stays -Only a stone's throw from Linlithgow Loch - 2nd Level 3 Bed Apartment with great views to the Loch and the Palace. Just a few hundred metres ( less than a 5 minute walk! ) from the Train Station and close to all restaurants , take aways and pubs. Very modern spacious apartment - with Flat screen TV and Broadband/ Internet Access. 3 Bedrooms with 3 double beds, Living Room with sofas , Bathroom and Kitchen - all very modern. See more..
4.5 Almondell & Calderwood Country Park (115 reviews)
- An array of fantastic walks
State Parks

There are many lovely works to be enjoyed at Almondell and Calderwood Country Park. This is our go to for a lovely walk. I would highly recommend and there are also many geocaches in the area for anyone who enjoys combining this with walks. See more..
4.5 The House of the Binns (91 reviews)
- Lovely walk
Monday: 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM Historic Sites

About The House of the Binns Set in beautifully landscaped parkland overlooking the River Forth, this fascinating laird’s house near Linlithgow has been the home of the Dalyells for 400 years. The present house was built in 1612 by Thomas Dalyell, an Edinburgh merchant who made his fortune at the court of King James VI and I in London. Thomas’s son, General Tam Dalyell, formed the legendary regiment of Royal Scots Greys. There are many mementos of him in the house, as well as colourful legends about his dealings with the Devil to discover. A warm welcome awaits visitors at the home of the Dalyells, with rooms rich in family history and personality. The house is open from June - September. The grounds are open year round from 9am-7.30pm. See more..
4.5 Polkemmet Country Park (64 reviews)
- Great Day Out
Monday: 7:00 AM - 8:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Parks

I would highly recommend Polkemmet Country Park after my first visit here today with my 6 year old son. There is plenty for him to do with multiple climbing frames, sand, swings, grassy areas to play and picnic benches. The owl centre and golf course is here to but did not visit. There is a visitor centre and public toilets. Woodland walks and just a great outdoor park. Did not even see half of it and I was impressed and will be returning. See more..
4.5 The Hive Soft Play and Party Center (58 reviews)
- Above and beyond
Monday: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Playgrounds

We regularly visit this wonderful cafe and softplay.....the softplay is interactive and clean and the cafe is welcoming with delicious food and drink and dedicated, kind, friendly hard working staff. Highly recommend. See more..
4.5 Krafty Brew (54 reviews)
- Don't tell everyone, but this place is great!
Spent 2-3 hours Breweries

We offer people the chance to come in and brew their own cusyom made beer, they choose exact flavours and their own hops and malts and get 150 bottles at the end of it, we also do custom labels, this is ideal for groups, staff days out, stag do's etc We also do tasting sessions almost every day of the week as well as sell our beer to pubs, clubs and restaurants. See more..
4.5 Reconnect Regal Theatre (50 reviews)
- Wrestling!
Monday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Theaters • Convention Centers

The Reconnect Regal Theatre is the heart of Bathgate. This Unique Art Deco venue in the centre of the town (just 5 min walk from the train station) offers a warm welcome to all visitors and events, a great place for a gig/concert or theatre show ( 400 standing 230 seated ) not to mention weddings parties and events of all kinds. See It! The Reconnect Regal Theatre hosts a lively and diverse programme of professional and community entertainment, including children’s shows, films, drama, comedy, traditional and popular music, comedy, Club nights and more Do it! The Regal’s multi-purpose rooms make a great venue for dance classes, yoga, music workshops and other activities. Conference and seminar organisers looking for an affordable, easily located venue take advantage of our attractive hire rates, ample breakout space, and flexible, practical support. We also host our own in-house Stage school and technical production academy. The Reconnect Regal is a great venue, easy to get to See more..
4.5 Howden Park Centre (45 reviews)
- New Jersey boys
Spent < 1 hour Theaters • Convention Centers

West Lothian's most exciting venue for arts, music, theatre, comedy, dance, exhibitions and classes. Howden Park Centre is a stunning arts centre that features a 300 seat auditorium at its heart, an art gallery (free entry), art studio, several multi-function rooms for hire and a stylish café bar with free Wi-Fi. Please refer to Howden Park Centre's website for venue and box office opening hours. See more..
4.5 Linlithgow Museum (44 reviews)
- Definitely worth a visit
Monday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums

Learn about the rich history of the Royal Burgh of Linlithgow in our brand new museum! Perfect for locals and visitors alike - find out about our Royal connections, the trades of the town, and the ordinary - and extra-ordinary! - people who lived or worked here over the centuries. A five-star VisitScotland accredited museum. See more..
4.5 Linlithgow Burgh Halls (41 reviews)
- Charismatic building in the centre of Linlithgow
Spent < 1 hour Art Galleries • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Convention Centers

Dating back to 1670 Linlithgow Burgh halls is a unique landmark building at the heart of the historic town. Today it is a modern multi-functional venue with a dedicated art gallery, stunning halls for weddings receptions and ceremonies, public events, art workshops and talks. It also has its own café with an outdoor terrace area and walled garden. The Gallery presents a changing programme of exhibitions featuring significant work by national and international artists that resonates with this unique building. See more..
4.5 The Cross Well (29 reviews)
- An ornate structure in the centre of Linlithgow
Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks • Monuments & Statues • Fountains

The Cross Well is in the centre of Linlithgow along the High Street opposite the Burgh Halls and has been carved in the shape of a crown, it is extremely ornate. There has been a well on the site since 16th Century but the current well was created in 1807 by stone mason Robert Gray. The structure seems well placed outside the Burgh Halls and is worth visiting whilst in Linlithgow. See more..
4.5 Scottish Korean War Memorial (27 reviews)
- Scottish Korean War Memorial
Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks

Beautiful Park with easy parking. Lovely memorial to those who gave there lives for peace. Would love check out the walks during Summer. See more..
4.5 Torphichen Preceptory (25 reviews)
- Tranquil, Historic and Fascinating Contribution to Scotland's History
Historic Sites

Nestled in the heart of Torphichen, West Lothian, lies Torphichen Preceptory. Maintained by Historic Scotland the Preceptory is one of two examples to be found in Britain, the other is located in London. The earliest known records of its existence are from 1168. In its current state it consists of the two trnscepts and the tower, though foundations from various other parts, such as the cloisters, still exist. The original church was the only Scottish link to the Preceptory of the Knights Hospitaller of the Order of St John of Jerusalem and today it is manned by members of the Order of St. John. See more..
4.5 Potter Around (19 reviews)
- Brownie visit
Monday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Art Galleries

I brought a small group of Brownies, who had been on a long journey (from past Inverness) who had had a very long day. It was prearranged and prebooked, and we had a wonderful visit doing decopatch and making slime. Staff were incredibly accommodating and helpful and went out of their way to make our short visit special. Definitely recommend. See more..
4.5 View Point, Forth Bridges (16 reviews)
- Forth railway bridge
Scenic Walking Areas

Three fantastic and world awesome bridges. The forth railway bridge is a forerunnet for the best bridge in the world. Great to see. See more..
4.5 Binny Craig (9 reviews)
- One of the best views in West Lothian
Geologic Formations

Well worth the visit especially if you have a camera. A bit of steep climb at the crag itself but the views from the top (220m) are breathtaking and well worth any exertion. Parking up close for a quick visit can be difficult, but there's plenty of parking in nearby Uphall and a well signposted and maintained walk from there (even with a sturdy seat to take a rest on the way). You can return to Uphall the way you came or if you prefer a longer, circular walk, return by way of Ecclesmachan. Reverse back to the first tarmac road, turn left and follow this road down to the village, then turn right at the junction with the main road which will take you back to Uphall. See more..
4.5 Avon Aqueduct (7 reviews)
- Take the Avon Aqueduct Canal Cruise - Fun Way to Experience the Aqueduct
Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks

We contacted the Linlithgow Canal Centre before we left the US and were able to get reservations ahead of time. Note: When we had some difficulties paying online, I emailed the Centre. Thanks to Doug Scott, the Booking Director, for securing our spots. The ride is relaxing and pleasant along the canal. When we got to the aqueduct itself, the boat stopped about halfway and let everyone off for photos and such, while the boat continued on over the canal and then turned around [not an easy thing to do!]. It then came back, picked us up, and made the return journey to our starting point. The whole thing is run by volunteers [even the cafe snacks are homemade], everyone was so nice, and all did a wonderful job of giving us a super experience! Thanks. See more..
4.5 Five Sisters Zoo (2.027 reviews)
- Fabulous Day out for all the family
Monday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Zoos

The Five Sisters Zoo offers a great value family day out for all the family. With over 120 different species from all around the world from bats to bears and lemurs to lynx everyone has their favourites. Daily handling sessions, keeper talks and feed the lemur sessions. School and groups are most welcome, group rates available. Please see the website for full details and admission charges. Open all year. See more..
4.5 Linlithgow Palace (1.419 reviews)
- Historic Stunner
Temporarily closed - Closed until further notice Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Architectural Buildings • Castles

Due to access restrictions in place as a precautionary measure while we undertake high level masonry inspections, there is currently no visitor access to the palace. The gatehouse and grounds are open. The main gate may be locked when no staff are on duty, however there is pedestrian access. The magnificent ruin of a great Royal Palace set in its own park and beside Linlithgow Loch. A favoured residence of the Stewart kings and queens from James I (1406-37) onward. Building work commissioned by James I, III, IV, V and VI can be seen. The great hall and chapel are particularly fine. James V (1512) and Mary Queen of Scots (1542) were both born here. Surfaces inside the Palace are mainly stone slabs and small cobbles in the courtyard. The ticket office, shop and courtyard are accessible to visitors with disabilities. More mobile visitors should be able to access the first floor which forms the main part of the property. Access is available to Linlithgow Loch and extensive peel (park). See more..