About Loanhead in Midlothian

Loanhead is a town in Midlothian, Scotland, situated on the south-west side of Edinburgh. It lies in the heart of the area known as the Pentland Hills. Loanhead is a former coal mining town and was also home to the first oil shale mine in Scotland. The town has a population of around 8,000 people.

Loanhead has a long history dating back to the 12th century. It was originally a small village called Linton, but grew rapidly during the Industrial Revolution with the development of coal mining and oil shale mining in the area. The town's name was changed to Loanhead in 1874 when the main coal mine in the area was opened.

Loanhead is a typical Scottish town, with a mix of old and new architecture. The town centre is home to a variety of shops, pubs and restaurants, as well as a library and community centre. There are also several primary schools and a secondary school in Loanhead.

The town is situated close to Edinburgh, making it a popular commuter town. There are good transport links to the city, with regular bus and train services. Loanhead is also within easy reach of the Pentland Hills, making it a popular destination for walkers and cyclists.