Lothian facts for kids
Lothian was a special area, or region, located on the east coast of Scotland. For many years, it was an important part of Scotland's local government. Even though the region of Lothian doesn't exist as a single government area anymore, its name is still used for the areas that replaced it.
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What Was Lothian?
From 1975 to 1996, Lothian was one of the nine main regions of Scotland. These regions were set up to help manage local services like schools, roads, and emergency services. Before 1975, the area was made up of different counties, such as Midlothian, East Lothian, and West Lothian. The regional council for Lothian was based in Edinburgh, which is Scotland's capital city.
Where is Lothian?
Lothian is located on the eastern side of Scotland, right next to the North Sea. It stretches from the Firth of Forth in the north down to the Pentland Hills in the south. The region is mostly flat near the coast, but it becomes hillier as you move inland. The famous city of Edinburgh is right in the heart of what was once the Lothian region.
A Look Back in Time
The name "Lothian" has a very long history, going back over a thousand years! In ancient times, this area was part of a powerful kingdom called Northumbria, which was in what is now northern England and southern Scotland. Over many centuries, control of Lothian was fought over by different groups, including the Angles (who formed Northumbria) and the Scots. Eventually, Lothian became a key part of the Kingdom of Scotland. Its location made it important for trade and defense.
Lothian Today
In 1996, the way Scotland was governed locally changed again. The large Lothian region was divided into four smaller, independent council areas. These are:
- City of Edinburgh: This is the capital city itself, with its own council.
- East Lothian: This area is to the east of Edinburgh, known for its coastline and farmlands.
- Midlothian: This area is to the south of Edinburgh, stretching into the Pentland Hills.
- West Lothian: This area is to the west of Edinburgh, with towns like Livingston.
Even though the "Lothian Region" no longer exists as a single governing body, the name "Lothian" is still used in many ways. You might hear it in names of businesses, sports teams, or even in the names of local health boards and transport services. It's a reminder of the area's long and interesting past.
See also
In Spanish: Lothian para niños
Images for kids
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The Lothian (Burdiehouse) Burn as it passes through Little France, Edinburgh
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Traprain Law in East Lothian, said to have been the site of King Lot's capital
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The Pentland Hills in rural Lothian
