West Lothian

About West Lothian

West Lothian seems to be dominated by its industry, heavily linked by motorways with a large number of industrial estates and decorated with "bings" (giant hillocks of mine waste). However the county has a rich and important past with its medieval town of Linlithgow with the famous Linlithgow Palace.

Of all the people associated with the West Lothians I most admire Tam Dalyell who has played an extremely important roll in British politics. Born in England he spent most of his life in the family home, a 17th century castle called , "The Binns" near Linlithgow. Correctly titled Sir Thomas Dalyell of the Binns, 11th Baronet, Tam Dalyell, was the first person to raise what is known as the "West Lothian Question" which questions the rights of MPs in voting on affairs of Scotland and England. However I was inspired by Tam's determined search for truth and justice that led him to take to a tour of the United Kingdom during the 1980's to speak of many of the activities of the then Tory Government such as the sinking of the General Belgrano and the Westland Affair. He gained much respect and also repute for his strong stance on the subjects and was twice expelled from the House of Commons for calling Margaret Thatcher a liar and using "unparliamentary language". Although he was the Labour MP for Linlithgow Tam was also an arch-critic of Tony Blair especially over the war in Iraq. An truly incredible guy who deserves more recognition for his work!

Things to see and do around West Lothian

Linlithgow Palace is the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots, James V and the home of all the Stewart kings. A magnificent ruin of a great 15th Century palace which stands above Linlithgow High Street and overlooks the small Linlithgow Loch, Linlithgow Palace has a fine great hall and chapel that are well worth a visit.
Tel: 01506 842896

West Lothian Links

West Lothian Council
The official site for West Lothian Council.

Edinburgh Hotels
Edinburgh hotels and accommodation listings.

Edinburgh Hotel
A guide to Edinburgh together with a list of hotels and accommodation.