West Lothian, the vibrant area situated between Edinburgh and Glasgow covering most of the Central Belt. Dotted between urban areas are a number of great woodland walks which are great places for our adventures pups.
Here’s three of our favourite woodland walks in West Lothian to explore with the pooch.
Ravencraig Woods
In the Bathgate Hills, just off the B708 is a great hilly woodland walk. There is a designated layby-styled carpark which is free of charge. The trail paths are marked and there are some sharp steep gradients however the reward is fantastic, views of the Firth of Forth as well as the Bathgate Hills and surrounding area. You will feel like you are far away in the countryside so go prepared with water and snacks.
The wood has an abundance of foliage that your pup will enjoy exploring but this means for us humans that the trails can be very muddy so good waterproofs are recommended, even in the driest of days!
Dechmont, Deans and North Woods
Three connecting woods allow visitors to explore different sections or have a lengthy walk covering the whole area. The woods have various entrances so can be accessed by car, public transport or from the local neighbour. The main entrances have lit tarmac paths which lead to soft surfaced trails, depending on how deep into the wood you explore will depend on how muddy the paths become.
This is one of the busier woods in West Lothian so watch out for cyclists, runners and the odd horse rider. The woods have an abundance of tree species, wildlife and birds.
Witchcraig Wood
Found beside the well-known Korean War Memorial, this quaint wood is full of history. Parking is located at the layby beside the War Memorial. The uphill path is well signposted leading to an amazing viewpoint, follow the signs to the Refuge Stone and the Witchcraig Wall. Once here the path leads further towards the boundary of Beecraigs Country Park allowing explores to make the walk longer if required. The only way back to the car park is to retrace the path back to the War Memorial.
Share Your Favourite Walks
Is there another woodland walk in West Lothian you would add to the list? Which woods have you and your pup explored?
