The Best Things To Do In West Lothian Scotland

Home to singer-songwriter Lewis Capaldi and Britain’s Got Talent star Susan Boyle, this Scottish region lies in the central belt between Edinburgh and greater Glasgow. The area boasts some of the best shopping in Scotland, along with plenty of family-friendly activities, cultural sites and alternative days out. Here’s our pick of the best things you can do in West Lothian.

1. Go to a light night at Five Sisters Zoo

Zoo

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.

2. Snap unique selfies in Jupiter Artland

Art Gallery, Park

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.

3. Shop at Livingston Designer Outlet

Shopping Mall

Livingston designer outlet McArthur Glen Scotland. Image shot 11/2008. Exact date unknown.

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.

5. Take a tour of Matugga Distillers

Wine Seller, Cocktails

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.

Forage with Hipsters and Hobos

This Livingston-based organisation runs wild foraging adventures in parks, woodlands and forests across the area. Attendees can learn to identify the many bounties of Scottish nature and how to safely use them in meals, beverages, cosmetics and in fermentation. The courses also cover harvesting and the ways in which these freely available natural items can boost your diet. Book a full afternoon, concluding with a delicious and sociable eco picnic, or try a taster session.

6. Mountain bike through Beecraigs Country Park

Park

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.

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