As the winter months are fast approaching and with Christmas just around the corner, families and friends looking for festive fun need look no further. West Lothian, in the heart of Scotland, has Christmas all wrapped up.
Whether you’re looking to see Santa, do some Christmas shopping or get away for the Christmas break West Lothian has something for the whole family.
James Bailey, chairperson of Visit West Lothian commented: “West Lothian has attractions and activities all year round but Christmas brings an extra sparkle to the area. From the exciting Christmas activities taking place at all the attractions to the great places to stay, shop and eat, there is something for everyone. “
Head to Linlithgow on Saturday 24 November for a day of festive fun at the annual Advent Fayre. From 10am guests can enjoy the annual street and craft fair along with children’s entertainment. The Grand Torchlight Procession will make its way through Linlithgow at 5pm and arrive at Linlithgow Burgh Halls for the Christmas Tree switch on at 6pm. For further information please visit: http://visitwestlothian.co.uk/things-to-do-in-west-lothian-scotland/events/
Visit Bathgate on Saturday 1 December for their annual Christmas in Bathgate event. The entertainment kicks off at 12noon and includes the Santa Parade, with face painting and fun for all the family. The Torchlight procession starts at 4pm with the Christmas Light Switch-on at 5pm.
The family favourite, Cinderella will be paying a visit to Bathgate Regal Theatre and Howden Park for the ultimate Christmas pantomime. Join Cinderella and the gang at the Regal Theatre from Saturday 1 December to Sunday 9 December or at Howden Park from Tuesday 11 December to Monday 24 December. Tickets are £13.50 for adults, £9 for Concessions and £45 for a Family Ticket (2 adults & 2 Children). For more information and show times please visit http://visitwestlothian.co.uk/category/things-to-do-in-west-lothian-scotland/events.
Join The Rotary Club at Hopetoun House on Friday 7 December for a Christmas Gala Concert. This musical evening will take place in the grand Ballroom of Hopetoun House and raise funds for Hope and Homes for Children. For further information and tickets please visit http://www.hopetoun.co.uk/whats-on-calendar.html. Tickets are £15.
Fun for all the family is to be had at Hopetoun House’s Family Christmas Craft Workshop on Saturday 15 December. Join the team from Hopetoun at 10.30am to 12noon for hands on arts and crafts as you create your own Christmas Decorations. With mince pies and Christmas music it is guaranteed to be a jolly good time. To reserve your place please call 0131 319 3956 or email ranger@hopetoun.co.uk Tickets are £3.50 for Children, £6 for Adults and £5 for Concessions.
FAMILY FRIENDLY…
Visit Santa in his farmyard cottage at Almond Valley Heritage Centre or at his winter wonderland in Five Sisters Zoo and receive an early Christmas present. Kids can join in Christmas fun, meet the animals and enjoy the magic of a traditional Christmas. Santa will be handing out presents every weekend from Saturday 1 December to Monday 24 December. Visit http://www.almondvalley.co.uk/Events.html and http://www.fivesisterszoo.co.uk/ for more information.
For those looking to get a little closer to nature, wrap up warm and head to Beecraigs Country Park. With around 100 Red Deer and a dozen Highland Cattle families can get up close and personal to these beautiful animals and enjoy the walking trails through the woodlands. While you’re there why not pick up a Christmas tree? You take part in Christmas events and walks at Polkemmet and Almondell & Calderwood Country Parks. For more information on activities at the Country Parks please visit www.beecraigs.com/Country_Parks/index.htm
CHRISTMAS ACCOMODATION…
For those coming from further afield or just looking to get out of the busy city, West Lothian has cosy Christmas accommodation.
Hopetoun’s Self-catering Holiday Cottages offer a private and idyllic retreat for you and your family this Christmas. Set in the picturesque grounds of Hopetoun Estate the cottages offer the perfect backdrop for a winter evening away from the hustle and bustle. For more information or to book a cottage please visit: www.hopetoun.co.uk/holiday-cottages.html
Ashcroft Farmhouse B&B, a successful five star award winning B&B in the heart of West Lothian, is the perfect resting place for the Christmas season. Surrounded by countryside and only 10 miles from Edinburgh this homely accommodation provides the ideal setting for a peaceful break. For more information or to book please visit: www.ashcroftfarmhouse.com
SHOPPING…
If you’re looking to escape the city centre to do your Christmas shopping, The Centre and Livingston Designer Outlet both offer a superb retail extravaganza. Based in the heart of Livingston’s town centre, both centres offer more than 250 shops and fantastic family restaurants including Debenhams, New Look, Body Shop, Nando’s, Pizza Express and Wagamama.
Looking for a sentimental gift with a difference this Christmas, Family Treepot in West Lothian has the gift for you. Handmade and personalised, Family Treepot designs and creates your family tree on a teapot. The treepot is glazed, fired and then boxed beautifully. Or why not visit Potter Around on 9 December between 12-4pm for its Christmas craft fair, and buy handmade crafts, paint pottery or create your very own Christmas presents. For more information please visit: www.familytreepot.com/index.asp / www.potteraround.co.uk
To find out more about all the great things to see and do in West Lothian please go to www.visitwestlothian.co.uk
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