Winchburgh to Broxburn (5.5 miles)
Pick up the towpath in the centre of Winchburgh. This section is known as the Shale Trail and is named after the shale mining industry that formerly dominated this part of West Lothian. The evidence is all around in the form of spoil heaps (or bings). Niddry Castle is easily spotted as we leave Winchburgh behind. Mary Queen of Scots stayed in the 16th-century tower house following her escape from captivity in Loch Leven Castle. The A-listed Niddrie fortress is now a private dwelling.
Greendykes Bing towers on your right. It is the largest of the pink-coloured West Lothian shale tips. It stands 300 feet above the surrounding landscape and is now a scheduled monument. Should you wish to climb to the grassy plateau on top, cross the canal at the old overbridge and follow the dirt path under the power lines. As a group of steel Nissan huts appear among the trees to the left, turn right along another earth track. There are several routes to the top but the easiest method is to turn right about 10 yards before the big concrete block. A shallow gully runs all the way to the summit. Enjoy the sweeping views in all directions. Back on the towpath, we saunter the final mile to Broxburn. Plenty of facilities are available here. Returning to Winchburgh on foot makes for a round trip of five and a half miles. Alternatively take the regular bus service.
