Lights, Camera, West Lothian! Exploring West Lothian's Contribution to the Film Industry

One of the crown jewels of West Lothian’s filming locations is the Hopetoun House. This estate is often considered one of Scotland’s finest stately homes. Built in the 18th century, Hopetoun House has been a versatile backdrop for the popular TV series "Outlander." Throughout seasons one to four, it has portrayed various locations: the opulent Duke of Sandringham’s estate, the somber Helwater (where Jamie Fraser serves out his parole), and the dramatic Ellesmere Estate (where Jamie's illegitimate son is born). The courtyard behind the stables is instantly recognizable to fans, having doubled as the bustling streets of Paris in season two.

Not just for "Outlander" aficionados, Hopetoun House attracts visitors from April to September. It's a must-see for anyone intrigued by its dual historical and cinematic significance. Recently, this magnificent estate has also caught the eye of Bollywood, serving as a filming location for "Bade Miyan Chote Miyan" in 2023, starring Akshay Kumar and Tiger Shroff.

Linlithgow Palace, another West Lothian gem, is steeped in history and has also made its mark on the screen. This former royal residence, which hosted Scottish monarchs in the 15th and 16th centuries and was the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots, became the fictional Wentworth Prison in "Outlander." Fans of the series will recall the intense and harrowing scenes at the end of season one, where Jamie Fraser is tortured by Black Jack Randall before being rescued.

Beyond "Outlander," Linlithgow Palace has appeared in other productions. It featured in the historical epic "Outlaw King," where its grandeur provided the perfect backdrop for the story of Robert the Bruce. As a well-preserved ruin cared for by Historic Environment Scotland, Linlithgow Palace remains a major attraction, drawing both history buffs and film fans alike.

Allow us a moment of indulgence to highlight Blackness Castle. Although it is no longer technically within the borders of West Lothian, we hold it in such high regard that we continue to claim it as one of our own. This remarkable fortress served as a key filming location for the movie "Mary Queen of Scots," with its dramatic coastal setting perfectly complementing the film's various scenes. Regardless of its official designation, Blackness Castle remains close to our hearts and continues to shine brightly in our cinematic landscape.

West Lothian’s cinematic landscape extends beyond these three notable sites. The region has hosted a variety of productions across different genres:

T2 Trainspotting (2017) : Beecraigs Country Park provided the serene yet striking natural scenery for this classic comedy.

Under the Skin (2014) : The site of the former Club Earth nightclub in Livingston played a key role in this eerie and critically acclaimed sci-fi film starring Scarlett Johansson.

The Jacket (2005) : Bangour Village Hospital was transformed into a haunting location for this psychological thriller.

BBC’s "Shetland"(2013) : Platform 3 in Linlithgow brought the gripping crime drama to life with its atmospheric setting.

Lockerbie series (2023) : Linlithgow and Bathgate offered the perfect backdrop for this intense and dramatic series.

Shattered (2024) : Starring Samuel L. Jackson, this action-packed film also found a home in Linlithgow.

West Lothian’s diverse locations, from stately homes and palaces to parks and urban settings, provide a versatile canvas for filmmakers. This hidden gem of the Scottish film industry continues to attract high-profile productions, contributing significantly to Scotland's rich cinematic heritage. Whether you’re a film buff, a history enthusiast, or just in search of stunning scenery, West Lothian offers a unique and enriching experience.

So next time you find yourself captivated by a scene in your favourite film or TV show, there’s a good chance that the beautiful and historic settings of West Lothian played a part in creating that magic. Lights, camera, West Lothian—this region is ready for its close-up!

Film on Forth invites film enthusiasts to explore the rich cinematic tapestry of the Falkirk and West Lothian areas, brought to life in productions ranging from "Outlander" to "Mary Queen of Scots." This initiative by Visit West Lothian offers an array of itineraries for tracing the footsteps of beloved stars, whether you’re planning a day trip or a multi-night stay. Discover historic sites like Blackness Castle, Linlithgow Palace, and Callendar House, alongside modern marvels such as The Kelpies and the Falkirk Wheel. Conveniently located in the heart of Central Scotland, these attractions are just a short drive from both Edinburgh and Glasgow, with excellent transport links ensuring you can reach them swiftly. For detailed travel planning, visit our Getting Here page.