Western Dunfermline (4.2 miles)
This circular walk begins in the village of Crossford, just west of Dunfermline. From the crossroads in the centre, head down Waggon Road, but not before noting the presence of a Stephen's drive-in bakery adjacent to the traffic lights. Perfect for a bite to eat at the end of this trail. As the houses (and pavement) peter out, take the grassy strip alongside the final properties and pass into the narrow strip of woodland running next to the road. The path is actually the old trackbed of the Elgin Railway, one of the first horse-drawn lines in Scotland (hence the name Waggon Road). An ancient stone bridge over a small stream is reckoned to be one of the earliest rail crossings in the country.
The trees give way to a dirt track but we must switch to the main road for 200 yards until reaching a rail bridge. This is the former freight line to Longannet Power Station. Little used now but still officially open. Pass under and turn immediately left on to a signed walking and cycling way. After a short climb we walk over a heavily overgrown railway which served the MOD base at Crombie but has been mothballed for over 25 years. Th road continues to gain height and views open up over Crossford towards the Ochils. We dog-leg around a farm and the imposing form of Dunfermline Abbey looms in the distance.
We meet the B9156 and turn left towards the town (there is a pavement). An excellent view can be had of Pittencrieff House in the middle distance, its orange painted exterior conspicuous among the surrounding parkland. The green expanse of Dunfermline Rugby Club greets us as we enter the old royal capital. Take the access road between the pitches towards the clubhouse. Aim for a ruined building on a low embankment at the edge of the compound. Step into the adjacent field (there is no fence) and skirt the edge, following the line of adjacent housing and rounding the corner. A ramped exit brings you on to a farm track which is in fact an access road for the old Logie Estate. Turn left at a T-junction then take a sharp right.
The track passes the entrance gates to Logie House, a huge 16-century country pile with extensive gardens out of sight to the rear. Follow the drive away from the house, passing the old stable block. This road eventually emerges on the A994 at the top of Crossford. Head downhill back into the village and to your starting point.
