The Best Things to Do in West Lothian, Scotland

This much-loved local zoo brings those of all ages up close to animals like lions, bears, lemurs, monkey, reptiles, reindeer, birds, wallabies, wolves, sheep and snow leopards. Set in the charming countryside near West Calder, it’s transformed into a magical kingdom in the autumn and winter months, with seasonal after-dark illuminations. But if you’d rather get involved with feeding and handling, head along for a daytime visit.

Founded in 2009 by philanthropic art collectors Robert and Nicky Wilson, this is arguably the most Instagrammable spot in the region. The park features incredible oversized contemporary sculptures and epic modern landscaping from artists including Phyllida Barlow, Charles Jencks, Anish Kapoor, Cornelia Parker and Antony Gormley. It’s made up of 100 acres (40.5ha) of outdoor space and indoor galleries, so allow a few hours to wander, and aim for a dry day.

With over 70 major brands at knock-down prices, the Designer Outlet in Livingston is a destination shopping mall. Perfect for wet-weather days, the sleek modern venue is all under cover. It has plenty of food and drinks pitstops, as well as adventure golf and a multiplex cinema. Take home cut-price items from the likes of Barbour, Hugo Boss, Calvin Klein and Ted Baker. If you’d prefer to shop high-street brands, head to The Centre, another large mall adjacent to the Designer Outlet.

Best known as the birthplace of Mary, Queen of Scots, Linlithgow Palace was built as a royal residence in the 15th century. It’s the focal point of the town centre, a few minutes’ walk from the train station, but surrounded by an area of parkland and overlooking a stunning loch. You may recognise the palace from the small screen – it was used for the corridors in Wentworth Prison and for entrances in the first series of Outlander. Entry is ticketed, but you can picnic in the grounds and snap some exterior photos for free.

Matugga is a lesser-known attraction. The exciting artisanal rum distillery is found on the Brucefield Industrial Estate in Livingston, and they offer gourmet spiced rum with a difference – it’s crafted in small batches in Scotland, but using high-quality natural East African ingredients. Discover with Paul, the knowledgable distiller and founder, how the liquor is made, and try some award-winning white, spiced and cask-aged golden rums, or sip on a decadent cocktail or two.

This four-star visitor attraction in the Bathgate Hills covers 914 acres (370ha). The parkland provides ample opportunity for walking, cycling and horse trekking. But, if you’d rather get the blood pumping with a more daring activity, try its many mountain bike trails. You’ll spot some local deer, cattle and sheep as you fly through and can make a day of it by hiring a BBQ pit. If you’re here for longer, the park has its own glamping lodges. Beecraigs also has two nearby sister sites, Polkemmet Country Park and Almondell & Calderwood Country Park.