Scotland’s “worst towns” have been named by visitors, with one being compared to Mordor from Lord of the Rings.
There are countless towns and villages across the country that each have their own unique charm. However, some destinations in Scotland are more popular than others.
Taking to Reddit, one user asked the ‘CasualUK’ community what the “worst town” they have visited is. Various destinations throughout the UK were mentioned, though the top reply singled out Prestonpans in East Lothian.
Stating that they almost moved to the town in 2003, one user likened it to the black volcanic land of Mordor from Lord of the Rings. They commented on the “giant black power station at one end of town which looks like Sauron’s castle”, stating that “it was like being in Mordor with a Giant black monolith breathing fire in the distance”.
Another agreed, commenting: “I just love that description. Quite literally ‘Hell on Earth‘.”
However, one user disagreed: “It’s not the best place, sure, but far from the worst? I grew up in Haddington, so I’m somewhat familiar with it. There are places around East Lothian that would be worse.”
The “giant black power station” mentioned refers to the Cockenzie power station, which was decommissioned in 2013. As reported by Scottish Construction Now, East Lothian Council approved works at the former site this June.
Despite the unflattering Tolkien comparison, Prestonpans offers plenty to see and do. The historic town is perhaps best known as the site of the legendary 1745 Battle of Prestonpans — the first major conflict of the Jacobite rising — that saw Bonnie Prince Charlie’s forces defeat a government army.
Previously a centre of important industries such as coal mining, salt works, and brewing, Prestonpans has a rich heritage. Among its top attractions is the Prestongrange Industrial Heritage Museum, where visitors can see equipment and even steam trains from the town’s heyday.
Elsewhere, another highlight of Prestonpans is the large Cuthill Park. Featuring timber playground equipment, a community garden, and even a telescope looking out across the coast, it is a top destination on a sunny day.
Meanwhile, another Reddit user named Cumbernauld in North Lanarkshire as the worst UK town they have visited. They described the new town, which was built in the 1950s as a population overspill for Glasgow, as an “absolutely revolting place”.
As reported by the Daily Record, Cumbernauld was previously named Scotland’s “ugliest” town. On a list published by The Telegraph, it was criticised for its “spirit-sapping” architecture and “dismal” town centre.
For more information on what you can get up to around Prestonpans, check out the VisitScotland website.
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