The Saltire, Carmondean, Livingston

Close to the recently re-sited Livingston North railway station, this is exactly the kind of purpose built pub you’d expect to find in a New Town neighbourhood complex. It’s big, modern, square shaped and all on ground level, with a separate bar, lounge, beer garden and function suite (the Pentland Suite, in honour of the former name). Carling, Tennents, Stella Artois and Coors lagers are all on draught, as are Belhaven Best, McEwan’s 70 Shilling and Guinness. There is also wine on tap. Inevitably, in view of its location, it attracts mainly local people from the surrounding estate and commuters just off the train. It’s all very nice, clean, well kept and child friendly, but rather predictable and characterless.