Broxburn & Uphall

Traditional, Scottish working towns with their own unique identities offering visitors a warm welcome. With plenty to see and do in both Broxburn and Uphall, they are well worth a visit for a fun or leisurely day out.

History

Originally agricultural communities, Broxburn and Uphall grew rapidly and merged together following the discovery of shale oil in the region in 1852. Both towns benefited and thrived during Scotland’s oil boom until its demise in 1957 at which point the shale mines had been fully exploited.

Today, with their excellent geographic location and close proximity to the M8 and M9 Broxburn and Uphall are commuter towns to Glasgow, Edinburgh, Stirling and onwards travel northwards. Recent years has seen an increase in immigration to the area, particularly from Polish nationals, broadening its cultural diversity.

The Union Canal, another natural asset, stretches across the central belt of Scotland, cutting through Broxburn and provides the area with invaluable transport and tourism links.

Things to do in Broxburn and Uphall

Both towns offer a diverse range of independent stores ranging from highly regarded local butchers, beauty salons, gift stores, delicatessens and bespoke, top quality kitchen designers to national car dealers. If you’re in need of refreshment while you’re on the go, there are plenty of cafés, restaurants and authentic Scottish pubs to choose from.

The local leisure centre in Broxburn offers swimming and and other sports for all ages and abilities, whilst Uphall gold club boasts a full, 18-hole course in the beautiful, rolling countryside. You can practice your swing beforehand at the American Golf driving range, situated opposite. Close at hand, is the very popular Houston Farm Riding School situated in Uphall. Lessons for all levels are available most days of the week. Horse riding parties can also be arranged for those wishing to celebrate a special occasion.

The tranquil Union Canal has been gradually restored over the last 20 years, and the path by the waterway now attracts cyclists, runners and walkers. 

Just beyond Broxburn lies the Almondell and Calderwood Country Park. Set aside time to explore some of the 227 acres of woodland and you might be lucky enough to spy a roe deer, heron or woodpecker. Families especially will enjoy the pleasant picnic and play areas, whilst the visitor centre is popular with all ages.

For those with green fingers, the area benefits from a good choice of nurseries and local garden centres offering an excellent range of flowers, plants and gifts. Binny Plants specialises in nursery plants while Williamson Garden Centre can create the most magnificent floral displays. Further along the road is the well known Dobbie’s Garden Centre. Visitors can enjoy afternoon tea or a light bite in pleasant surroundings in both Williamson’s and Dobbie’s garden centres.

Overnight visitors to the area can choose to stay in one of the popular bed and breakfasts. For those looking for a luxurious spa break, Uphall is home to one of West Lothian’s most elegant hotels. The Macdonald Houstoun House is a stunning, whitewashed, historic home built in the 17th century. Previous guests of the house include Mary, Queen of Scots – so you’ll be in good company if you stay here.