Armadale
(West Lothian)-
Town Centre
-
Rural Town
Background
The town of Armadale, West Lothian's fifth largest settlement, is found in the West of the current Council area, encircling the historic cross-roads of the A89 Edinburgh-Glasgow and the A706 Bo'ness - Lanark roads. Armadale was historically known as 'Barbauchlaw', which meant that it was an area used for boar hunting. This was changed in the late 18th century when the area was bought by Sir William Honeyman, who named the locality Armadale after one of his estates in Sutherland.
In past years Armadale's location made it a useful stopping point on the 'Great Road' from Edinburgh to Glasgow. This led to the building of an inn and a tollhouse for the travellers who were passing through.
The expansion of Armadale in the second half of the 19th century was fuelled by the natural advantages the area held. This includes mineral deposits, fireclay, ironstone and limestone deposits. By the mid-20th century, Armadale's industrial structure was more diversified than that of many other towns in the west of the then county area. Today's economy however is more dependent upon industrial estates.
The town still adopts a long, linear structure and is known to locals as The Dale. Located close to the M8 motorway, existing transport connections will be further improved by a new station as part of the Bathgate Airdrie Rail Link, aimed for completion by 2010. Recent estimates place the town's population as now exceeding 9,000.
Visiting Armadale
Armadale's unique and fascinating history is evident in its surroundings. The unusual public house, The Goth (1911), can be found on the Main Street and is easily recognisable with its distinct architecture. Designed according to the philosophy of the Swedish Gothenburg System, which sought to counter the rise in alcohol consumption, the venue has historically always providedample coffee and food for its customers.
Armadale's range of services includes jewellers, café's, fishing tackle outlets, a library, flower shops, pubs and restaurants. There is also the specialist Mill Garden Centre, which has been in operation since 1900. It stocks unusual and common flowers and plants amidst its attractive display gardens, and is certainly worth a visit.
The town has many leisure activities on offer including a local swimming pool and leisure centre. The pool incorporates a poolside sauna and steam cabins, with a fun kiddies splash pool. In addition there are many sports available for kids to take part in, such as gymnastics and football lessons. The town is also host to their own football team Armadale Thistle. Established in 1935 the team competes regularly with local opposition.
Another attractive asset that Armadale boasts is Bridgecastle Golf Club. This nine-hole course offers fantastic views as shown on the left and is an ideal way to spend a relaxing afternoon. Armadale also has two busy bowling clubs. The Armadale Bowling Club is an ideal venue for bowls and socialising. With regular entertainment, music and bingo on offer amongst other activities. Having been established in 1867, the club is truly part of the town's local heritage. The Watson Memorial Bowling Green is open over the summer season and offers an attractive alternative for agood game of bowls.
You can also find a number of eye-catching churches in Armadale such as the Armadale Parish Church of Scotland shown on the right. This beautiful building offers weekly services for worship, as well as other community activities during the week.
Beyond the particular sites of interest there are an abundance of tranquil local walks dotted around Armadale. Two of the most popular include Hardhill Wood, with its spectacular views over the Bathgate Hills, and Black Moss that has woodlands and ponds to amble alongside.
You can also find a wealth of nearby countryside within a mile from Armadale in Polkemmet Country Park. The park spreads over 169 acres and offers a range of recreation activities including a nine-hole golf course, driving range and bowling green, play areas, nature trails, barbecue & picnic sites. The Country Park also offers a Ranger Service which leads walks and activities.
* The above content has been generously provided by West Lothian Council
How To Get There
| Bus: | |
| Train: | |
| Car: |