West Fife Woodland Way (9 miles)
This fully waymarked trail was created in 2019 by stitching together existing paths. As the route is circular, you can start anywhere you like but this description begins at the entrance to Valleyfield Woodland Park in the village of Newmills. An information point shows a map of the once-opulent estate which is now popular with local walkers. Follow the green arrow markers through the woods, under the A985 and out the other end at the Shiresmill riding centre.
The route progresses towards Blairhall then veers left down to the B9037. Cross over and pass through a metal gate. Visit the indicated viewpoint which is an old colliery spoil heap. Views can be enjoyed across West Fife, Clackmannanshire and Stirlingshire with the peak of Dumyat looming in the distance. Descend the bing and walk towards Balgownie Woods - formerly the parkland for Culross Abbey. Once clear of the ancient trees, we cross a minor road then take a gravel path that leads to Devilla Forest. Great views of the Ochils open up on this stretch. At the Walled Garden tearoom, we proceed down a concrete forestry road for three quarters of a mile - probably the most uninteresting part of the circuit.
Cross the A985 with care and maintain a straight course. We turn left after 350 yards and a plague grave from 1645 lies along this path, just over the fence. Three child siblings died on the same day and are buried in the woods. Locals still place toys at the site. Hop over the stile at the signpost if you fancy checking it out. Ignore a couple of path junctions and continue in a straight line towards the old church and mausoleum. It's worth having a wander around the graveyard with many stones displaying symbols of trades and mortality.
We then descend to the conservation village of Culross where there are many historic sites to explore. Several refreshment options are available here. The trail follows the railway line along the shore so it's easy to pick up again if you decide to wander around Culross. At the edge of the village, a foot crossing takes us over the railway line. A mile further on, we take a metal bridge back over to the other side and steel ourselves for the final uphill section back to the starting point.
