WorldAtlas has named Linlithgow, a historic town in West Lothian, as one of the nine best places to live in Scotland in 2026. The travel experts highlighted the town's fascinating historic attractions, convenient location near Edinburgh, and picturesque surroundings.
Location and Heritage
Linlithgow sits in Scotland's Central Belt, about 20 miles west of Edinburgh along a historic route to Falkirk. It is best known for the ruins of Linlithgow Palace, birthplace of Mary, Queen of Scots in 1542. Built over two centuries by the Stewart kings, the palace was a main residence of Scottish monarchs in the 15th and 16th centuries. Open to the public, visitors can climb Queen Margaret's Bower for views over Linlithgow Loch and explore the Great Hall.
WorldAtlas noted: "Linlithgow Palace rises straight from the edge of the loch, roofless since a 1746 fire but still commanding the town's skyline... That loch, a 41-hectare freshwater basin, gives the town its name and its best vantage point."
Commuter Links and Amenities
The town offers direct train connections to Edinburgh (20 miles east) and Glasgow (35 miles west), making it a practical commuter base. The High Street features independent shops including Far From the Madding Crowd bookshop, Low Port Music vinyl store, Lilypond Crafts and Gifts, and Styled By Macs Limited boutique. Dining options include Aran coffee shop and The Bridge Inn, a historic coaching inn.
WorldAtlas added: "Beyond the postcard, the town runs on a busy civic life, with dozens of community and special-interest groups and a strong set of schools. The 350-seat Linlithgow Academy Theatre stages full productions inside a high-performing secondary school, and Linlithgow Academy itself sends a steady stream of pupils to Scotland's top universities."
Property Market
According to Rightmove, average home prices in Linlithgow over the past year were about £315,000, well above the Scottish average of roughly £190,000, reflecting the town's desirability. Scotland Now's Alexander Smail visited earlier in 2026 after the town featured in The Sunday Times' Best Places to Live guide, praising its friendly locals, community spirit, and venues like Aran and White Dove Coffee Roasters.
