Harthill’s history centres on two things: the coal mining that once exploited rich resources beneath the earth here, that industry now sadly a memory; and the route between Glasgow and Edinburgh where it is the half-way point. The original Glasgow-Edinburgh Turnpike passed through the village; the express stagecoach that soon used the road stopped there to change horses and for travellers to grab some refreshment. That tradition persists with the siting of the M8 just a few hundred metres north of the place, Harthill chosen for the first Motorway Services in Scotland – now called The Heart of Scotland services. This innovatively includes a park-and-ride facility and regular buses to Glasgow 21 miles away and Edinburgh 25: thus Harthill and its environs make an ideal base to visit those cities for business or pleasure, but still be able to escape from the urban environment in the evening. With a population of about 3600 Harthill, which sits on the River Almond, is between village and small town, with local employment and light industry including (unsurprisingly) distribution, along with plastics manufacture. North and south of the settlement there is plenty of open countryside dotted with reservoirs, or nearer to hand Polkemmet Country Park affords visitors and locals alike the room to stretch their legs and get some fresh air.
Places to Stay near Harthill
Osprey Guest House (4.85 miles)
Premier Inn Livingston (Bathgate) (6.06 miles)
Located within easy reach of the M8, only 25 minutes from the centre of Edinburgh, 30 minutes to the centre of Glasgow and 25 minutes to Stirling. It's perfect for both business and leisure guests. ... More | visit websiteHoliday Inn Express Livingston (6.06 miles)
Ridgeland House (6.61 miles)
All bedrooms have remote control ... More | visit website
Belsyde Country House (7.54 miles)
Located between Edinburgh & Glasgow and sitting in it's own romantic, peaceful and secluded grounds in rolling countryside, it commands outstanding views northwards over the Forth Estuary to the Ochil Hills and Highlands. Nearby is ... More | visit website
Premier Inn Glasgow Motherwell (7.56 miles)
Shawlee Cottage (7.83 miles)
Herdshill Guest House (7.95 miles)
Ashbank Guest House (8.99 miles)
The Commercial Hotel (9.01 miles)
Brit Quote: |
|
On this day: |