Ratho lies on the south bank of the Union Canal, eight miles southwest of Edinburgh. The canal was once a source of much trade transport and as it became a less popular choice, Ratho declined in popularity. Now, however, the canal has been fully restored and the town is once again thriving. The name is thought to be derived from the Gaelic for 'fortress' and there is evidence that the village dates back at least a thousand years. In the 12th century, Ratho Parish church was dedicated to the Virgin Mary, but the present church appears to have been built in around the 17th century.... < more >