Loch Ore Circuit (3.2 miles)
Lochore Meadows Country Park (known locally as "The Meedies") was opened in the late 70s. It was the result of a massive land reclamation project. The park's 1200 acres were formerly dominated by the mining industry but now the area is a green oasis with Loch Ore at its centre. Enter from the B920 as you reach the village of Crosshill. The Stagecoach number 19 bus from Dunfermline offers a frequent service and stops outside the entrance (marked by a pit wheel). The access road leads past the ruins of the 14th-century Lochore Castle and there is a visitors centre with refreshment and toilet facilities (named after Willie Clarke - a legendary local communist councillor). The winding tower from the Mary Pit has been left in situ to mark the coal mining heritage of the district.
Make your way to the water's edge and begin an anti-clockwise circuit of the partially man-made loch. The route is fairly obvious but does stray from the water towards a tarred single-track road at roughly the mile mark. After passing a small car park, a path splits to the left (signed Running Trail) a couple of hundred yards further on. This straight section crosses the loch inflow and we then turn left to bring us back to the water's edge. The path undulates in places and fines views of Benarty Hill open up. Small stretches of woodland are encountered and this pleasant stroll is highly recommended.
