Blairhall Bing Loop (3.8 miles)
All across Fife, former mining landscape has been reclaimed and made accessible to the public. A recent example of this is the site of Blairhall Colliery in the western end of the Kingdom. This walk begins on the southern edge of Oakley village. Ample parking is available at the Holy Name Church, a prominent white building. Follow the path back towards Oakley. After a short distance you will encounter a large stone cross. This memorial is dedicated to local estate workers who fell in the first World War. Continue on the footpath and you soon emerge on the West Fife Way - a cycle path running from Dunfermline to Clackmannan.
You are standing upon the site of Oakley Station - closed to passengers in 1968. Freight traffic disappeared 20 years later and the route converted to a public right of way. Turn left along the tarmac surface. After a mile of pleasant walking through a shallow tree-lined cutting, you encounter the 8-arch Dean Viaduct. Rather than cross the bridge, take the signed core path curving away to the left. You can snatch a glimpse of the impressive structure through the trees. Ignore an informal track to the right and push on for 600 yards to a clearing. At this path junction we go right and we head downhill to meet the B9037 road. Cross over and enter the small parking area. A large map is on display and shows the route network on the reclaimed land.
Pass through the metal gate and hang right, following the tall wooden signpost for Balgownie. The next marker directs you to the viewpoint on top of the old bing. Either go straight up or continue straight ahead before looping back. The latter option involves climbing a steep staircase, but it's a good workout! From the pinnacle, you have an excellent view of Dumyat and the surrounding Ochil Hills. Return by the reverse route.
