walking week

Explore West Lothian’s beautiful landscape and learn about the county’s wonderful history. West Lothian Council delivers welcome... to the 2010 West Lothian Walking Week

Just 30 minutes walking a day can make a dramatic difference to your health and wellbeing. Walking is an accessible and inclusive form of physical activity, which can also be very sociable and easily fitted into people’s daily lives. What better way to get out and about than by enjoying the beautiful scenery which West Lothian has to offer.

Whether you are an experienced walker or a total beginner, West Lothian Walking Week offers you the chance to explore beautiful landscape, learn about the area’s history, make new friends and take some important strides towards improving your health.

Best of all, most of the guided walks and activities are absolutely free! You can enjoy a variety of walks from country parks to the woodlands, along canals and into nature reserves. The walks cover a range of times throughout the day, so simply book your walk and go!

Quality greenspace contributes to feelings of wellbeing and it’s right on our doorstep! We have kept some of the popular walks from last year’s event and have added others we think you will enjoy.

Booking this year is essential and you can register onto a walk by contacting: tel: 01506 775626 or email: [email protected]

Visit www.travelinescotland.com to work out your route from any location in . In just a few minutes, the journey planner will find the quickest and easiest way for you to reach your destination.

Information is available in Braille, tape, large print and community languages. Please contact the Interpretation and Translation Service on 01506 775000. monday 20 september

Launch of West Lothian Walking Week Time: 10 - 11am Venue: Civic Centre Alex Linkston, West Lothian Council’s Chief Executive will launch the 2010 West Lothian Walking Week at the Civic Centre. Everyone is welcome to the launch and the walk afterwards, however booking is essential.

Civic Centre Walk 1 Time: 10.45 - 11.45am Distance: 5 km / 3 miles Start: Civic Centre, Livingston Leaving from the Civic Centre, we will walk alongside the River Almond before cutting on to a path that leads us towards Craigshill as far as the Rugby Club. We will then head back along the river path as far as Livingston Football Club stadium and finish at the civic centre main entrance.

Kids Woodland Walk 2 Led by Hopetoun House Ranger Service Time: 2 - 3.30pm Distance: 1 km / 0.6 miles Start: Hopetoun Gate House If you require transport, this will be provided from the Civic Centre to Hopetoun House and back. Please book to avoid disappointment. Join the Ranger as we search Hopetoun’s woods for tracks and signs of the animals that live there. We will search for animal homes and also carry out a mini beast hunt! Suitable for families with primary school aged children. Please bring suitable footwear.

Please wear appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear on all walks monday 20 september

Blawhorn Moss 3

Led by Armadale Together for Health Time: 3 - 4pm Distance: 3.2 km / 2 miles Start: Blackridge, Craig Inn car park The walk takes participants along the main road pavement and cuts up to a country path to be rewarded with stunning views from the Blackridge Moss. The ground is uneven in places and there are a few slopes, however the walk is suitable for beginners and will be taken at a moderate pace.

Middleton Hall, 4 Led by Put your West Foot Forward Time: 6 - 6.45pm Distance: 3.2 km / 2 miles Start: Strathbrock Partnership Centre Leaving from Strathbrock Community Centre we will take a path to the rear of the building and head out towards Holmes Park, cross the Brox Burn and then walk through a wooded area up to Loaninghill Road. We cross the road and enter another wooded area where there’s usually squirrels to be spotted! From there we take a circular route around the houses and past Middleton Hall, returning to the finish point at Strathbrock Community Centre.

To book any of these walks please phone 01506 775626 tuesday 21 september

Polkemmet Woodland 5

Led by Ageing Well Time: 10 - 11.30am Distance: Will vary depending on level in attendance and speed of the walker. Start: Xcite Whitburn Leisure Centre Target age: Over 50s Meeting at Xcite Whitburn Leisure Centre we will have a short walk along the Main Street and head out into Polkemmet Country Park for a walk around the park grounds. Primarily this will be a woodland walk which may have some uneven surfaces in places. Suitable for beginners or regular walkers.

The Glen, Armadale 6

Led by Put your West Foot Forward Time: 10am Distance: 4 km / 2.5 miles Start: Community Centre, Armadale This walk takes in part of the ‘Glen’ in Armadale. The route goes through a couple of housing estates, along a core path past the garden centre and winds its way back to the Community Centre. It is a fairly level walk with one small descent and ascent past the garden centre. There are lovely views, looking over towards , the Ochil Hills and beyond.

Howden Riverside 7

Led by Put your West Foot Forward Time: 10am Distance: 4 km / 2.5 miles Start: Craigsfarm, Craigshill Easy walk on fairly flat, well maintained paths. The walk goes around Howden Park, behind the new Civic Centre and then follows the River Almond back towards Craigshill.

Please wear appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear on all walks tuesday 21 september

Kids’ History Walk – 8 Linlithgow Loch

Led by Historic Scotland Ranger Service Time: 11am - 1pm Distance: 4 km / 2.5 miles Start: Linlithgow Palace car park Walk around Linlithgow Loch for primary age children with adults. With interactive historical activities along the way. Flat but uneven and occasionally muddy paths – dress appropriately. Not suitable for those with restricted mobility.

Broxburn Community 9 Woodland

Led by West Lothian Council Ranger Service Time: 1.30 - 3pm Distance: 3.3 km / 2 miles Start: Broxburn Academy Get on the move in Broxburn and enjoy the views as we explore this growing community woodland. Find out about Artlink’s Kirkhill Pillar Project from the sun shining on Broxburn Academy to the red planet of Mars on the hill. We’ll be stepping out looking for wildlife and sharing history on route. Paths & tracks with some uphill. Binny Craig Geology Walk 10

Led by Oatridge College Staff Time: 5.30 - 7pm Distance: 4 km / 2.5 miles Start: Oatridge College main car park This walk will start in the extensively landscaped grounds of Oatridge College following the national lowland path demonstration site onto open farmland of Oatridge College. From here the ground steepens until we reach the top of Binny Craig with its panoramic views of the Forth valley. Exploring the Binny Craig Regionally Important Geological Site the walk will also take in geological features such as baked margins of Binny Craig sill and feeder dyke.

To book any of these walks please phone 01506 775626 wednesday 22 september

Hopetoun’s Access Routes 11

Led by Hopetoun House Ranger Service Time: 10am - 12 noon Distance: 4 km / 2.5 miles Start: Hopetoun Gate House If you require transport, this will be provided from the Civic Centre to Hopetoun House and back. Please book to avoid disappointment. Enjoy a circular walk examining the free access routes around Hopetoun including the entrance drive, Fallow Deer Park and West Lothian’s Shoreline. Suitable for able adults and families with primary to secondary school aged children. Please bring suitable footwear.

Almond Park, Livingston 12

Led by Community Greenspace Officer and Community Inclusion Team Time: 12.30 - 2pm Distance: 3 km / 2 miles Start: Car park at Livingston Rugby Club, Craigshill, Livingston Discover the delights of this hidden gem in this lunchtime walk with the Greenspace Officer and the Community Inclusion Team. Our circular walk will take us through this extensive park, exploring its woodland and the banks of the River Almond. Most paths are surfaced and mostly flat, but with some moderate slopes. Suitable for all able to walk 3km at adult walking pace.

Please wear appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear on all walks wednesday 22 september

River Avon & Union Canal 13 Towpath Led by Central Scotland Forest Trust Time: 2 - 3.30pm Distance: 6 km / 3.6 miles Start: Outside Linlithgow Leisure Centre Enjoy a circular walk from Linlithgow Bridge along the River Avon Heritage Trail to the Aqueduct at Muiravonside and return by the Union Canal towpath. Hear about the built environment and natural heritage of the local area. There are muddy, uneven and steep sections on this route. Not suitable for those with restricted mobility.

Blackmoss Nature Park 14

Led by Armadale Together for Health Time: 4.30 - 5.30pm Distance: 3.2 km / 2 miles Start: Armadale Academy This walk is suitable for beginners and will be taken at a moderate pace. It is a pleasant walk to the leafy Blackmoss Nature Park. Join us to take a look at the former curling pond and catch a glimpse of some of the area’s features and inhabitants.

To book any of these walks please phone 01506 775626 wednesday 22 september

Eliburn Park and 15 Woodland Walk Led by WLC Greenspace Officer & Woodland Trust Time: 5.30 – 7pm Distance: 3 km / 2 miles Start: Eliburn Park Pavilion, Houstoun Road, Livingston Experience the old and the new in a leisurely walk around Eliburn Park and Livingston Old Wood – and test out the Woodland Trust’s new mobile phone tour. Flat but uneven paths. Some steps and slopes. Suitable for all including families with primary aged children. Return to pavilion afterwards for refreshments.

Please wear appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear on all walks M9 Bo’ness

the walks River Avon Polmont 18 8 16 13 Linlithgow

21

24 Beecraigs Country Park Avonbridge 28 Westfield Torphichen

6 Armadale 23 3 27 14 Blackridge

M8 5 Whitburn

A71 20 29 Fauldhouse Breich

1 Launch of Walking Week 9 Powie’s Path 2 Kids Woodland Walk 10 Binny Craig Geology Walk 3 Blackridge Moss 11 Hopetoun’s Access Routes 4 Middleton Hall, Broxburn 12 Almond Park, Livingston 5 Polkemmet Woodland 13 River Avon/Union Canal 6 The Glen, Armadale 14 Blackmoss Nature Park 7 Howden Riverside 15 Eliburn Park & Woodland 8 Kids History Walk - Linlithgow Loch 16 Battlefield Trail Walk Bo’ness River Forth

Abercorn 11 2

South Queensferry M9 Linlithgow 17 Winchburgh Kirkliston 21 10 Beecraigs Country Park Broxburn Uphall 4 M8

River Almond 26 Livingston 7 23 12 15 1 Kirknewton 9 19

A70 West Calder

22

25

17 Station Road Circular 25 Crosswood to 18 Linlithgow Loch 26 East Calder to Oakbank 19 Powie’s Path 27 Blawhorn Moss 20 Fauldhouse Walk 28 Hillfort Hike 21 Learn to go it alone 29 Easter Breich 22 23 Deans & Northwood 24 The Wallace Cave, Westfield thursday 23 september

Battlefield Trail Walk 16

Led by Battle of Linlithgow Bridge and Historic Scotland Ranger Service Time: 9.30am - 12.30pm Distance: 7 km / 4.5 miles Start: Linlithgow Leisure Centre (top end of car park) A clockwise walk, initially along the Union Canal towpath to Avon Aqueduct, transferring to nearby Avon Heritage Trail to exit at Mills. Proceed by road to the bridge itself, returning by road or partly by footpath to Lennox Cairn, to finish at Leisure Centre. Opportunities at points of significance for viewing, photography and discussion, including reference to any available information boards. The path is uneven and steep in places so not suited to those of restricted mobility. Toilets and refreshments may be available.

To book any of these walks please phone 01506 775626 thursday 23 september

Station Road Circular 17 Led by Put your West Foot Forward Time: 10.30 - 11.30am Distance: 2.5 km / 1.5 miles Start: Tally Ho’ Hotel Car Park, Winchburgh A varied walk combining insights into Winchburgh’s industrial heritage with wildflowers and lots of bird life along the way. Mostly downhill with flat paths and a few rough muddy patches. Steeper finish.

Linlithgow Loch 18 Led by Historic Scotland Ranger Service Time: 12.30 - 1.30pm Distance: 4 km / 2.5 miles Start: Linlithgow Palace car park A brisk walk around Linlithgow Loch for anyone who wants to get a bit of exercise in their lunch hour. Feel free to bring a sandwich. Learn something of the loch’s history and natural history on the way. Flat but uneven and occasionally muddy paths – dress appropriately. Not suitable for those with restricted mobility.

Please wear appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear on all walks thursday 23 september

Powies Path 19

Led by West Lothian Council Ranger Service Time: 1.30 - 3.30pm Distance: 6.5 km / 4 miles Start: Visitor Centre, Almondell & Calderwood Country Park Get on the Move in Almondell and explore the history and wildlife of this ancient route to Bridgend, Mid Calder. Enjoy surprising views of the and find out who or what was Powie, where a secret castle stood in and where the path of the ‘craw flee’ led to. Rough tracks with steps leading to viaduct.

Fauldhouse Walk 20

Led by Put your West Foot Forward Time: 2 - 3.30pm Distance: 6.5 km / 4 miles Start: Fauldhouse Partnership Centre, Lanrigg Road Discover Fauldhouse! Easy walking on surfaced paths with no big hills but sturdy shoes advisable. Suitable for everyone including parents with pushchairs.

To book any of these walks please phone 01506 775626 thursday 23 and friday 24 september

Learn to go it alone 21

Led by Beecraigs Outdoor Pursuits team

Thursday Time: 5 - 7.30pm Distance: 2 - 3 km / 1.2 - 1.8 miles

Friday Time: 9.30am - 4pm Distance: 8 -12 km / 5 - 7.5 miles

Start: Beecraigs Outdoor Pursuits Team Building adjacent to Visitor Centre. Transport provided to all venues. Please book to avoid disappointment. This introduction to navigation course will give you the skills and confidence to begin to ‘go it alone’ on hillwalks by yourself or with friends and family. The first evening will consist of both classroom based theory and practical demonstrations / opportunity to try it all out. The second day will be in the hills - Pentlands / Ochils - wherever the weather is best on the day. The emphasis will be on navigation and not covering vast distances.

There is a charge for attending this course.

Please wear appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear on all walks friday 24 september

East Cairn Hill 22

Led by Pentland Hills Ranger Service Time: 9.30am - 4pm Distance: 14.5 km / 9 miles Start: Civic Centre, Livingston A bus will provide transport from the Civic Centre to Harperrig and at end of walk from back to the Civic Centre. Join the Pentland Hills Ranger Service for this linear walk following part of the Drove Road from up to the . From here you will summit East Cairn Hill before a descent via the Borestane, North Esk Reservoir and finishing at Carlops. This is a strenuous walk; sturdy walking boots, waterproofs and a packed lunch is required.

23 Deans & Northwood

Led by WLC Greenspace Officer & Woodland Trust Time: 10.30am - 12.30pm Distance: 6 km / 4 miles Start: Car park at north end of Eastwood Park (by Deans High School) A circular woodland walk using the Woodland Trust mobile phone tour, with regular stops to look at woodland management and listen to the mobile tour. Paths are unsurfaced and can be muddy in wet weather. No steps and relatively flat walking route. Suitable for all able to walk 4km at adult walking pace.

The Wallace Cave, Westfield 24

Led by Armadale Together for Health Time: 11.30am - 12.30pm Distance: 3.2 km / 2 miles Start: The roundabout at Westfield This pretty walk takes us over a couple of sturdy stiles, into woodland and alongside the burn to the shrine of a national hero. Allegedly William Wallace hid here after the battle of Falkirk in 1298. If wet, path near the river may be slippy underfoot so please wear appropriate footwear. There are a couple of slopes and the ground is uneven in places.

To book any of these walks please phone 01506 775626 saturday 25 september

Crosswood to West Linton 25

Led by Friends of the Pentlands Time: 9.30am - 4.30pm Distance: 16 km / 10 miles Start: Civic Centre, Livingston A bus will provide transport from the Civic Centre to Crosswood and at end of walk from West Linton back to the Civic Centre. This linear walk is for experienced country walkers with an above average level of fitness. A packed lunch will be required with hot drink(s). Waterproof clothing and footwear essential. A long walk over some rugged moorland with extensive views.

East Calder & Oakbank 26 Led by West Lothian Council Ranger Service Time: 10.30am - 12.30pm Distance: 5.8 km / 3.5 miles Start: South car park, East Calder, Almondell & Calderwood Country Park A walk from the village to the top of Oakbank Bing. From the car park at the east-end of the village we will walk on quiet paths and pavements through East Calder and Oakbank to the community woodland where, following a gentle incline to the summit, we can enjoy the views. Pavement & tracks with some uphill.

Blawhorn Moss 27 Led by West Lothian Council Ranger Service Time: 2 - 3.30pm Distance: 2.4 km / 1.5 miles Start: Blawhorn Reserve car park by Blackridge (NS 879 676) Join us on a short walk to enjoy the open views. This ancient mossy expanse is the only National Nature Reserve in the Lothians. The path surfaces include; a slightly stony track, a surfaced path and finally a wooden boardwalk. The boardwalk is built over the moss plants so you can walk over 8000 years of history, locked into its deep peat layers.

Please wear appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear on all walks sunday 26 september

Hillfort Hike 28

Led by Historic Scotland Ranger Service Time: 11.10am - 2.40pm Distance: 11 km / 7 miles Start: Torphichen bus stop (bus 484 will arrive and leave in time from Bathgate or Linlithgow) Enjoy the viewpoints of the Bathgate Hills and their ancient archaeological sites. This walk takes in Cairnpapple Hill burial mound (free entry weekend), the hill fort of Cockleroy and several other ancient sites. Some stiles. Bring a packed lunch, walking boots and waterproofs. Moderately strenuous walk on roads, paths and hills. If you are taking the bus please ensure you can walk this distance in 3½ hours before booking.

Easter Breich 29

Led by West Lothian Council Ranger Service Time: 2 - 3.30pm Distance: 5 km / 3 miles Start: Fraser Road car park, Kirkton Campus, Livingston. (NT 026 665) A pan-handle walk on good paths along the River Almond and through a young mixed woodland. A good walk in pleasant country surroundings. Paths, tracks and fairly flat.

To book any of these walks please phone 01506 775626 Charges - All of the walks are free except for the ‘Learn to go it alone’ walking course on Thursday 23 and Friday 24 September. Cost for the 2 days is £51. Walk numbers - For safety and logistical reasons, numbers are limited for each walk and have been set by the walk leader. Pre- booking is therefore essential to secure a place on the walk(s) of your choice. If your suggested walk is full we will endeavor to offer you another walk suitable to you. Walk grading - Walks have not been graded however we hope that the walk description on the programme will give you the information you need to decide whether the walk is suitable for you or not. We will do everything we can to give you any extra information you may need. What to bring on walk - Please dress appropriately for the walk on the day. Any walk which requires you to bring food or refreshments will be included as part of the walk description in the programme. Children - A responsible adult must accompany children at all times. Dogs - Dogs are not permitted on the walks (guide dogs excepted). Smoking - Please do not smoke while on a walk, both out of consideration for others and also to avoid any undue risk of fire. Liability - Participants taking part in West Lothian Walking Week do so at their own risk and the organizers and walk leaders shall not be liable for any accident or injury, however caused. Participants should consult their GP if they are in any doubt as to whether or not they should take part. walk programme

Monday 20 Sept Launch of West Lothian Walking Week Kids Woodland Walk Blackridge Moss Middleton Hall, Broxburn Tuesday 21 Sept Polkemmet Woodland The Glen, Armadale Howden Riverside Kids History Walk - Linlithgow Loch Powie’s Path Binny Craig Geology Walk Wednesday 22 Sept Hopetoun’s Access Routes Almond Park, Livingston River Avon/Union Canal Towpath Blackmoss Nature Park Eliburn Park & Woodland Thursday 23 Sept Battlefi eld Trail Walk Station Road Circular Linlithgow Loch Walk Powie’s Path Fauldhouse Walk Learn to go it alone - part 1 Friday 24 Sept Learn to go it alone - part 2 East Cairn Hill Deans & Northwood The Wallace Cave, Westfi eld Saturday 25 Sept Crosswood to West Linton East Calder to Oakbank Blawhorn Moss Sunday 26 Sept Hillfort Hike Easter Breich westlothian.gov.uk