Falkirk to Linlithgow (9 miles)
We begin at the mouth of the fearsome Falkirk tunnel, 696 yards long and dimly lit. Abandon all hope, ye who enter here! Not only is there light at the end, but we emerge into a gorgeous leafy cutting spanned by several stone overbridges as the landscape becomes increasingly rural.
At Polmont, we pass by the (in)famous Young Offenders Institution with its high security walls. There is a railway station here, should you wish to cut this stage in half. Otherwise push on towards the mighty Avon Aqueduct, passing the curious remains of Almond Castle along the way. Crossing the aqueduct brings us into the county of West Lothian. The structure is 270 yards long and contains 12 arches. Gaze across to your left and you will clearly see the massive Avon Viaduct carrying the main Edinburgh to Glasgow railway. This bridge outdoes the aqueduct, having over 20 arches.
As we approach Linlithgow, the eye-catching spire of St Michael's Church becomes visible. Exit the towpath at Preston Road and walk 600 yards down to the High Street. Turn right and you will pass Annet House Museum which has interesting galleries showcasing the town's history and royal heritage. At the time of writing the museum is closed for redevelopment and is due to reopen in the spring of 2019. Linlithgow's most famous attraction is the palace - birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots and located right in the town centre.
PUB STOPS - Linlithgow has three recommended alehouses on the main drag. The Linlithgow Tap has cask beers on offer. Just along the road, the Four Marys has a fine array of handpulls. Adjacent to the railway station is Platform 3 where a few ales are available. A train will whisk you back to Falkirk. Regular buses also run between the two towns.
