is in Scotland. It has a population of around 175,000 and covers approximately 43,000 hectares. Here is a list of nearby or neighbouring counties: Edinburgh, Falkirk, Fife, North Lanarkshire, Scottish Borders, South Lanarkshire
West Lothian (called Lodainn an Iar in Scottish Gaelic) has a border with Edinburgh and a rich history including centuries old castles and prehistoric burial sites dating back thousands of years. During previous centuries West Lothian was called Linlithgowshire and the counties main town was Linlithgow. Set within scenic parklands near a loch are the impressive ruins of Linlithgow Palace, where Mary Queen of Scots was born in 1542. The largest town in West Lothian is Livingston, which was built during the 1960s on land which previously had a number of villages and now forms part of an area that has became home to the high technology sector in Scotland nicknamed Silicon Glen. Located in Livingston, the Howden Park Centre has facilities including an auditorium, art studio, pottery and gallery. The venue hosts performing arts events such as theatre and music, as well as running arts and crafts exhibitions and classes.
Among popular attractions in West Lothian is Blackness Castle, built during the 15th century, which overlooks the Firth of Forth and has been used as the setting for a number of film and television productions. Visitors to Polkemmet Country Park can enjoy its picturesque woodlands, which are home to a variety of wildlife, enjoy riverside walks and see a 24 metre high sculpture called The Horn. Built over three hundred years ago, Hopetoun House is considered to be the finest stately home in Scotland and was designed by the Scottish architect William Bruce. Throughout its history the house has been the residence of the same family, currently titled the Marquess of Linlithgow and formerly the Earl of Hopetoun. During the 18th century the Scottish architect William Adam designed the impressive surrounding parklands and considerably extended the house, whose interiors were finished by his sons Robert Adam and John Adam. Inside Hopetoun House there are rooms decorated with paintings, tapestries, period furniture, impressive ceilings and ornately carved woodwork. The grounds have been used to host a range of social and cultural events, including music recitals, plays, craft workshops and country shows.
