Preston Island circular (3.5 miles)
Sir Robert Preston established the artificial island bearing his name in the early 19th century. A sea wall was constructed and a coal pit and salt pans put into operation. More recently, a chunk of the surrounding land was reclaimed using ash from the nearby Longannet Power Station. This means "Preston Island" is now a promontory but it makes for an interesting loop showcasing sea views and industrial heritage.
Start anywhere in Culross and head for the shore path which runs parallel to the railway. An authorised foot crossing takes us to the other side of the line and we then follow the shoreline on an obvious gravel path. Simply follow this route with the water on our right. A high fence on the left forces us to stick to the path due to ongoing reclamation works.
The Forth Bridges come into view as we turn around the headland. Bo'ness lies directly across the water. Eventually we take an inland course and the original site of Preston Island can be viewed from behind a wire fence. The remains of the mining and salt industries are scattered around the compound and handy information boards explain how salt production worked and just how important it was to the Scottish economy at that time. We swing back round to the railway and return to our starting point, the path being easy to follow all the way.
