Historic Sites in Livingston Village

"The Scottish Parliament Building may be a lot more modern than other entries on this list, but it’s all the more striking for it. Designed by Enric Miralles in a post-modern, metallic style, the building was officially opened just over a decade ago in 2004. Its design aims to mirrors the natural beauty of the landscape around it, and the building itself is comprised of an array of abstract shapes."

"The best way to learn is practice, so to understand how the decisions for the country are taken, head over to the Scottish parliament for a tour. Not only the history but the architecture of the building will impress you. This modern building, recipient of major architectural awards, with ample natural light through the glass panels, will surely awe you."

"Enric Miralles’ Post-Modern Scottish Parliament complex was officially opened in 2004. Designed to mirror the surrounding landscape of crags and hills, the building is strikingly difficult from the traditional architecture of the Old Town it sits beside. The building, adorned with abstract, geometric shapes, sits under the gaze of Arthur’s Seat."

"Also in New Town, Dean Village is a former millers village built on the banks of the Water of Leith River. You can go there on foot from the city centre in about 15-20 minutes. You will see, it’s a very surprising place, contrasting greatly with the rest of Edinburgh."

"Dean Village is a brief stroll past the city centre yet it feels far removed from the bustle. The village offers up an enchanting and picturesque scene of colourful buildings resembling that of a fairytale. It truly is a place that time has forgotten."

"Take a break visiting the beautiful Dean Village, explore the Water of Leith walkway, take some pictures and enjoy realaxing at this peaceful location."

"Address: 43-45 High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1SRVisitor guide:John Knox House. John Knox’s house in the middle of The Royal Mile is a historic building that was reputedly lived in by the Protestant reformer in the 16th-century. Although Knox only lived in the house for a short time it’s his association with the building that prevented it from being demolished in 1840 when many other derelict buildings were being torn down."

"The John Knox House dates back to 1470, making it one of the oldest buildings in Edinburgh, as well as the oldest on the Royal Mile. Today, it’s a beautifully maintained museum that showcases the house and those who lived here, with special attention paid to the Scottish Reformation. Although it’s not on every tourist’s trail, those who do their research will be well rewarded with a fascinating trip back through time."

"The John Knox House dates back to 1470 and it is associated with the Scottish Reformation. Even though the name-giver John Knox only lived in the house for a brief period in the 16th century, his association with the house stuck throughout the…"

"The Grassmarket is a bustling part of Edinburgh, which has great nightlife and places to eat, as well as an intriguing past. Situated in the shadow of Edinburgh Castle to the south, it is named, as it was the market where all animals that ate grass –as well as the grasses to feed them – were sold. The bustling square hosts a food and craft market on Sundays and has a plethora of great old character-filled pubs to visit and great restaurants to sample Scottish or international food."

"Located close to the castle and featuring a vast cobbled square surrounded by pubs, restaurants and shops, it’s the perfect place for dinner and/or to have a drink in a relaxed atmosphere. In the past, in addition to being a market place, Grassmarket square was also the place where public execution took place. Hopefully nowadays, the atmosphere is a lot more joyful!"

"The site of a cattle market from the 15th century until the start of the 20th century, the Grassmarket has always been a focal point of the Old Town. It was once the city's main place of execution, and over 100..."

"This palace is the royal family's official residence in Scotland but is more famous as the 16th-century home of the ill-fated Mary, Queen of Scots. The highlight of the tour is Mary's Bedchamber, home to the unfortunate queen from 1561 to 1567. It was here that her jealous second husband, Lord Darnley, restrained the pregnant queen while his henchmen murdered her secretary – and favourite – David Rizzio. A plaque in the neighbouring room marks the spot where Rizzio bled to death."

"The Royal Mile ends at the Palace of Holyroodhouse. This palace is the official residence in Scotland of Queen Elizabeth. She resides here about one week every year. When the Queen is not here, the Palace is open for visit."

"Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, New Lanark was home to a social experiment at the beginning of the Industrial Revolution. Robert Owen…"

"Transport yourself to the Outlander set at Callendar Park & House. Callendar Park & House was used for one of the most well-known Outlander scenes as the Duke of Sandringham’s home."

"Beautiful rose gardens and a children’s farm are just some of the highlights of Tollcross Park. Located in the Tollcross neighbourhood of Glasgow, this city retreat is a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Amenities include picnic benches, toilets, and a children’s play area (kids 12 and under)."

"Another great pick if you have kids, this park has a farm with goats and sheep. If they get close enough, your kids can feed and pet them. The park also has an official nature walk, where you might be lucky enough to spot bats and foxes."

"This ice cream joint won Best Dessert Parlour at the Glasgow Awards 2018 and it's no wonder why. At Cheeky Moo's Ice Cream & Desserts, based in Rutherglen, you can enjoy some delicious ice cream on a warm day or even treat yourself to a banana split with three scoops. They even do a savoury and sweet 'Movie Munch' which includes nachos and dip, two hot dogs, two pick & mix, two ice cream tubs and two tango ice blasts for less than £20!"

"The plans to construct an iconic city hall in Edinburgh were sparked in 1896 by Andrew Usher, renowned whisky distiller, who promised to fund the project. In 1914, Usher Hall was built by architects Stockdale Harrison and Howard H Thomson, a magnificent and classical beaux-arts-style concert hall which stood in defiance against the Victorian Gothic architecture so commonly found within the city of Edinburgh. Situated on Lothian Road in the west of the capital, Usher Hall is instantly recognizable with its curved walls, geometric precision and intriguing exterior design, featuring famous Scots such as Sir Walter Scott and Robert Burns."

"Usher Hall is Edinburgh’s premier concert venue and a must-visit for fans of entertainment and culture. The hall was built in 1914 and features beautiful architecture, including a curved exterior decorated with panels of famous figures such as Sir Walter Scott and Mozart. The hall has historically been used for a variety of events, including concerts, political events, and sporting events."

"The 15th century buildings are tucked away in the east corner of the city, on the edge of Auchinlea Park. A category A-listed building probably isn't what you'd expect from the neighbourhood, and it's a pleasant, and beautiful surprise."