Things To Do In Livingston

Curated by The City Brief · Edited by Dean Withey · Updated 28 June 2026

Livingston has a modern feel, shaped by its development as a new town. You’ll find a mix of residential areas and commercial spaces, with green areas like Almond Valley offering a natural escape. For those looking for things to do in Livingston, you’ll find a community-focused atmosphere rather than a historical spectacle. The town, originally a mining village, was designated as a new town in the 1960s and has changed significantly over the past six decades.

Livingston Village blends historic roots with modern commercial energy, near the Kirkton Business Campus. It is close to the residential areas of Deans and Eliburn. Contrast this with Knightsridge, a more conventional residential district, or East Calder and Winchburgh – newer areas with strong community ties. Bathgate offers a more traditional town setting. Whether you’re after a walk or a coffee, these areas provide a comfortable environment.

If you’re looking for places to visit, consider Almondvale Shopping Centre for retail options. For outdoor activities, Almond Valley is a peaceful retreat. The Livingston Designer Outlet is a popular destination, and Almondvale Stadium hosts events, so check listings. Keep an eye out for local events like the Livingston Festival of Adventure and the West Lothian Festival of Arts. Livingston’s character is defined by its functionality and community spirit, with bars and well-maintained parks.

Browse by category

Shopping & Markets

Livingston is best explored by car, with the M8 motorway providing connections. The town is walkable, particularly within the central areas and between neighbourhoods like Deans and Eliburn. For longer distances or Almond Valley, cycling is a good option. If you prefer public transport, Livingston is well-served by bus services, and has connections to the Edinburgh-Glasgow railway line via Bathgate. Allow for congestion on the M8 during peak hours, and limited parking at Bathgate railway station when planning your journey.

Your experience will vary depending on where you stay. The residential areas – Knightsridge, Eliburn, East Calder – offer a quieter experience, while Livingston Village has more commercial energy. Almond Valley is ideal for relaxation and nature. The area benefits from a growing community, and access to events such as the Livingston Food Festival. Planning your visit to coincide with the West Lothian Festival of Arts or the Livingstone Festival of Adventure could add another dimension to your stay. Consider nearby Winchburgh, a developing residential area, or Bathgate with its mix of old and new.

Get Events You Care About Direct to Your Inbox

Subscribe For Free

---

Popular Places In Livingston

Browse all places in Livingston →

---

What Are The Best Things To Do In Livingston?

Livingston, originally a small village with roots in the 16th-century mining industry, was designated as a new town in 1962, part of a post-war initiative to relieve congestion in Edinburgh and Glasgow. The area’s landscape was historically dominated by coal mining until the industry’s decline in the 1960s. Today, Livingston is a modern centre for commerce and leisure. You’ll find a range of activities, including shopping at Almondvale Shopping Centre and enjoying the natural scenery of Almond Valley. The Livingstone Festival of Adventure offers activities, and the West Lothian Festival of Arts showcases local creativity. The Livingston Designer Outlet may be good for retail therapy.

What Is There To Do In Livingston This Weekend?

This weekend, you can visit Almondvale Shopping Centre. For outdoor activities, Almond Valley is a good spot for a walk or bike ride. Check local listings for events at Almondvale Stadium, and check our ‘this weekend’ category for up-to-date information. The Livingston Designer Outlet may have events or offers. Consider the Livingstone Festival of Adventure or West Lothian Festival of Arts.

Where Can I Find Live Music In Livingston?

Check local event listings for gigs. Almondvale Stadium sometimes hosts events, so check their schedule. The West Lothian Festival of Arts often includes musical performances. Almondvale Shopping Centre may host small events. Consider Livingston Village, with its commercial energy, or Almond Valley for a quieter evening, or local pubs in residential areas like Eliburn. The Livingstone Festival of Adventure and the Livingston Food Festival are also worth checking.

What Are The Best Areas To Visit In Livingston?

Almond Valley is excellent for nature, with riverside walks and green spaces. Livingston Village blends historic character and modern commerce. Knightsridge and Eliburn are quieter residential areas. East Calder is a newer residential environment. Consider Deans for insight into the early development of the new town, and Bathgate for its historic buildings.

Is Livingston Good For A Weekend Visit?

Yes, Livingston is a good option for a weekend visit, particularly if you seek a town with good transport links. Almondvale Shopping Centre and Livingston Designer Outlet offer retail experiences. Almond Valley offers a natural escape, and there’s a range of accommodation options nearby. With events like the Livingstone Festival of Adventure and the West Lothian Festival of Arts, there is something for most tastes. It's a good base for exploring West Lothian.

---

Events In Livingston This Weekend

View all events this weekend →

---

Events In Livingston This Week

View all events this week →