Lothian

Lothian is a historic region of Scotland located along the southern shore of the Firth of Forth. Traditionally it comprised the counties of East Lothian, Midlothian, and West Lothian, with Edinburgh as its principal urban and political center. In modern administration, the area is covered by four council areas: City of Edinburgh, East Lothian, Midlothian, and West Lothian. The origin of the name Lothian is attested in medieval sources, but its exact etymology remains uncertain.

Geographically, Lothian stretches from coastal towns on the Firth of Forth to inland hills such as the Pentland Hills near Edinburgh. The region includes a mix of urban areas, historic towns, agricultural lands, and coastal scenery. Edinburgh, the regional capital, sits on a volcanic rock outcrop defended by Edinburgh Castle and is a major cultural and economic hub.

Historically, the area has been inhabited since prehistoric times and grew in importance during the medieval and early modern periods. Edinburgh emerged as a royal center and later the political capital of Scotland. In the late 20th century, regional governance in Scotland reorganized into four unitary councils, with Lothian’s historic identity continuing in cultural and geographic references rather than as a single administrative unit.

Economically, Lothian benefits from a diverse mix of public administration, higher education, tourism, finance, and creative industries. The region is known for landmarks such as Edinburgh Castle, Holyrood Palace, and the coastline around East and West Lothian.