Whilst you are visiting Livingston Designer Outlet, why not take in some of the other attractions that are in the local area – from historic palaces to getting close to some amazing wildlife.
Linlithgow Palace
The ruins of Linlithgow Palace are situated in the town of Linlithgow, West Lothian, Scotland, 15 miles (24 km) west of Edinburgh. The palace was one of the principal residences of the monarchs of Scotland in the 15th and 16th centuries. Although maintained after Scotland’s monarchs left for England in 1603, the palace was little used, and was burned out in 1746. It is now a visitor attraction in the care of Historic Scotland.
Beecraigs Country Park
A one thousand-acre country park offering a wide range of recreational opportunities including trout fishing, a trout farm and a working red deer farm. There are numerous weekend and short courses available including target archery courses, orienteering, pioneering, canoeing, kayaking, hillcraft, skiing and rock climbing. Facilities on-site include BBQ and picnic areas, with function room and a bar.
Hopetoun House
Visit Hopetoun and discover a place of beauty, tranquility and architectural magnificence dating from the 17th century. It has been home to the Hope Family since the late 1600s and the present Lord Hopetoun and his family still live in Hopetoun House. Hopetoun House, a remarkable and beautiful stately home, is filled with stunning collections and sits in majestic grounds with nature trails and scenic walks. The House and Grounds are open to the public from Easter to the end of September, click here for visitor information. Events take place throughout the year, many on an annual basis, including the Bonfire Night Fireworks, “The Present Event” at Christmas, Ranger guided walks, outdoor theatre, music and charity events.
Edinburgh Zoo
Edinburgh Zoo is owned by The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS). Set in 82 acres of sloping parkland, the Zoo is situated three miles to the west of Edinburgh city centre. Apart from getting close to over 1,000 rare and endangered animals, there are many different ways to enjoy your day out. You can experience a busy programme of educational events and activities – ranging from keeper talks through to hands-on animal encounters – and a wide-range of eating experiences, several play areas and a fantastic gift shop.
The Zoo is also one of Scotland’s most popular visitor attractions, open every day of the year including Christmas Day.
Almond Valley Heritage Centre
All the family will enjoy a wonderful day out at Almond Valley Heritage. Nestled in a pleasant riverside site with woods and green spaces that extend for almost a mile, there’s so much to do and see. The picturesque buildings and paddocks of Mill Farm are home to many friendly farm animals, including Highland cattle, rare breed sheep, goats, ponies, horses, and some very inquisitive ducks. There’s always something happening, with milking, feeding, talks and handling sessions throughout much of the year, and a programme of seasonal crafts, games and activities for children during the school holidays. Kids can let off steam and engage their imagination in a range of unique play facilities including a simulated archaeological dig, a play mine, toy tractors, pedal carts and trampolines. Even if the sun isn’t shining there are indoor play areas for all ages, and secrets to be discovered in the museum.
Seasonal tractor rides and trips on the narrow gauge railway transport you through a pleasant landscape to peaceful riverside walks. The working watermill and machinery shed provides an insight into West Lothian’s rural past whilst the museum tells the fascinating story of Scotland’s famous shale oil industry. And, (of course), we have a delightful tearoom. Whether you’re aged one or a hundred and one, we’re certain that you’ll leave Almond Valley with a smile on your face.
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Five Sisters Zoo
The Five Sisters Zoo offers a wonderful opportunity to get up close to 198 different species of mammals, birds and reptiles from around the world. There’s lions, lemurs and lynx, wolves, meerkats and monkeys, parrots and porcupines, bat eared foxes, reindeers and raccoons to name but a few, all adding up to an exciting, educational and great value visit for all the family. There’s keeper talks and feeding sessions throughout the day and if you fancy getting up close, why not join in with one of 3 daily handling sessions, with snakes, bearded dragons, tortoises, hedgehogs and giant African land snails. A definite favourite are the ring-tailed lemur feeding sessions, where you are able to hand feed these amazing and gentle creatures. Kids and adults alike, love the hands on half and full day keeper experiences (these must be booked in advance).