Things To Do
in Livingston
Livingston is a post‑war new town in West Lothian, Scotland, planned in the 1960s to house commuters for Edinburgh and Glasgow. It combines suburban neighbourhoods and shopping areas with surprisingly good access to parks, country parks and historical villages nearby. The town is a practical transport hub with two train stations and easy motorway links, making it a convenient base for exploring central Scotland.
Livingston's feel is contemporary and functional, with pockets of heritage such as Livingston Village and nearby Linlithgow Palace adding character.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the Livingston Designer Outlet, where you can enjoy a leisurely breakfast at one of the charming cafes. After breakfast, take a stroll through the outlet's retail spaces, taking in the unique architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Make sure to explore the nearby Livingston Village, where you can admire the historic buildings and beautiful scenery.
In the afternoon, head over to the Almond Valley Heritage Centre, where you can immerse yourself in the local history and enjoy interactive exhibits. After exploring the center, take a scenic walk along the nearby River Almond, soaking in the tranquility of the natural surroundings. Pause for a picnic lunch at one of the picturesque spots by the riverbank.
As the sun sets, enjoy a delightful dinner at a local pub, where you can sample traditional Scottish dishes along with some local craft beers. After dinner, take a leisurely walk around the village to appreciate the historic architecture illuminated at night. Conclude your day with a nightcap at a cozy bar, enjoying the friendly atmosphere.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café before heading out to the beautiful Dechmont Law for a morning hike. The fresh air and stunning views from the top will invigorate you, and you can take your time to explore the various trails. Keep an eye out for local wildlife and the diverse flora along the paths.
After your hike, enjoy a packed lunch at the summit of Dechmont Law, relishing the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Spend your afternoon exploring the nearby Beecraigs Country Park, where you can engage in activities such as cycling or visiting the animals at the park's farm. The park’s scenic walking trails provide a perfect way to unwind and connect with nature.
As evening approaches, head back to Livingston and treat yourself to dinner at a restaurant that specializes in Scottish cuisine. Afterward, consider attending a local event or show, as Livingston often hosts lively performances and cultural activities. Wind down your day by sipping tea or coffee at a nearby café, reflecting on your adventurous day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee (regular) | $3-4 |
| 🍺Pint of beer at a pub | $5-7 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride (3–5 miles) | $10-20 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $90-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Excellent transport links to Edinburgh and Glasgow
- Good access to parks, country walks and historic sites nearby
- Practical amenities, shopping and family‑friendly attractions
- Limited nightlife and fine‑dining compared with nearby cities
- Weather can be unpredictable and often wet
- Town centre is functional rather than picturesque in places
Places to Visit in Livingston
Visit one of these nice places.
Picturesque farm buildings, vintage machinery and riverside views — good for family‑oriented shots and pastoral scenes.
Charming old cottages, stone walls and village streets that contrast with the town's newer architecture — great for heritage and architectural photos.
A small lake, parkland and seasonal plantings provide calm reflections and colour, especially in spring and autumn.
A short drive away, the ruined palace by the loch is one of the region's most iconic photo locations, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Expansive views across rolling hills, woodland trails and reservoir scenes ideal for landscape photography and wildlife shots.
Food in Livingston
Livingston Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A creamy smoked haddock soup originally from the northeast of Scotland — commonly found on menus in local restaurants and pubs.
Must-Try!
The classic Scottish dish (haggis, turnips and mashed potatoes) appears on many gastropub menus; a hearty choice on colder days.
A meat pie that is widely available in bakeries and takeaway shops — good for a quick, warming snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local markets (held periodically) and pop‑up stalls in West Lothian offer local cheeses, baked goods and seasonal produce; check West Lothian Council or local community pages for dates and locations.
Nearby towns such as Linlithgow and Bathgate host farmers' markets and occasional food festivals where you can sample local meats, preserves and sweets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Scots value politeness and orderly queuing — wait your turn and be courteous in shops, public transport and services.
Friendly small talk is normal, but avoid overly personal topics on first meeting; asking about sport, the weather or local places is fine.
Follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code: take litter home, keep dogs under control near livestock and stick to paths where requested.
Safety
Tipping in Livingston
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is discretionary in Scotland: roughly 10%–15% in restaurants if service is not included, rounding up or leaving small change for taxis, and a few pounds at pubs if you receive table service.
Cards are widely accepted (chip and PIN/contactless). Cash is still useful for small shops or market stalls; mobile payments are increasingly common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and long daylight hours make summer the most pleasant time to explore parks and nearby lochs; expect occasional rain and busy weekends, especially at popular spots.
Cooler air and colourful foliage create scenic walks in the country parks; layers are necessary and day lengths shrink noticeably from September onwards.
Cold, often windy weather with short daylight hours — snow is possible on higher ground and some rural paths can be muddy or icy; check local conditions before heading out.
Unpredictable weather but lovely blossoms and returning wildlife; bring waterproofs and warm layers as temperatures can fluctuate quickly.
Livingston at Night
Hiking in Livingston
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Woodland and hill trails, reservoir walks and viewpoints offering moderate hikes and picnic spots; good for families and more energetic walkers.
Riverside paths, historic bridges and low‑level trails that are accessible and scenic for half‑day walks.
Broader range of trails and summits a short drive from Livingston — suited to day hikes with excellent views over Lothian.
A gentle circular walk around the loch with historical sights (Linlithgow Palace) and good birdwatching opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Livingston by plane.
Approximately 20–30 miles east of Livingston; the closest major airport with frequent domestic and international flights. Accessible by car, taxi or a train/bus combination via Edinburgh.
Roughly 30–40 miles west of Livingston; an alternative for many international flights. Reachable by car or train/bus connections via Glasgow.
Further to the southwest, used mainly by budget and charter airlines; a longer drive but sometimes useful for specific routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents commute to Edinburgh or Glasgow for work, taking advantage of Livingston's transport links.
The town has many family‑oriented neighbourhoods, schools and amenities attractive to parents and young working adults.
Established local communities and retirees who have lived in the area for decades contribute to community life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Scotland's most popular sport — local supporters follow Livingston FC and other regional clubs; community football is widely played.
Rugby union has a strong local following at amateur and school levels across West Lothian.
Golf is popular regionally, with several courses within short drives offering varied links and parkland challenges.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Livingston.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most pubs, cafes and restaurants offer vegetarian mains and sides; Scottish venues are increasingly aware of plant‑based options but always check menus and ask staff for suitable dishes.
Vegan choices are available but less extensive than in larger cities; speciality bakeries or vegan‑friendly cafes are less common, so call ahead if you need a wide selection.
Many establishments provide gluten‑free options and will take cross‑contamination seriously; mention intolerances when ordering and look for dedicated GF menus in larger restaurants.