Love on the Trail: A Valentine’s Day Walking Adventure in West Lothian

Depending on your style as a couple (or hopeful soon-to-be couple), here’s a pick of the best walking trails in West Lothian for a Valentine’s adventure.

Depending on your style as a couple (or hopeful soon-to-be couple), here’s a pick of the best walking trails in West Lothian for a Valentine’s adventure.

💖 Perfect for: Couples who want that Notebook movie moment without the heartbreak.

You can’t go wrong with a scenic loop around Linlithgow Loch, especially with the dreamy Linlithgow Palace standing proudly in the background like an old-world chaperone. It’s a short, easy 2.3-mile walk, so there’s plenty of time for stolen kisses, Instagram-worthy pictures, and deep, meaningful conversations (or, let’s be real, debates about whether swans are secretly evil).

🔥 Pro Tip: Bring some birdseed for the swans and ducks. Not only will you look generous and kind-hearted, but it’s also a great way to test if your partner has a secret fear of aggressive wildlife.

🥖 Bonus Romance Move: Grab a takeaway coffee and pastries from Taste Café nearby for a cute snack break on a bench by the water.

💖 Perfect for: Couples who love nature, exploring, and pretending they’re in a fairy tale.

Imagine strolling through enchanting woodlands, crossing picturesque bridges over the River Almond, and stumbling upon hidden picnic spots—yes, it’s just as magical as it sounds. Almondell & Calderwood Country Park is perfect for couples who want a mix of romance and adventure, plus, let’s be honest, a chance to show off their superior sense of direction.

🔥 Pro Tip: If you do get a little lost, just pretend it’s part of the plan. “I wanted us to discover this completely random yet beautiful spot together.” Smooth.

🥾 Bonus Challenge: If you want to impress your date, research some local wildlife facts beforehand. Saying “Did you know that kingfishers mate for life?” = Instant romance points.

💖 Perfect for: Couples who like a challenge and aren’t afraid of the “so are we almost there?” question.

For those who believe that love is a journey (sometimes uphill, sometimes through unexpected mud puddles), Beecraigs Country Park is the ultimate Valentine’s Day test of patience and endurance. The views at the top are spectacular, and the feeling of accomplishment (read: exhaustion) makes it even better.

🔥 Pro Tip: If your partner still loves you after you’ve both huffed and puffed up the hill, they’re a keeper.

🍫 Romantic Move: Pack some chocolates or homemade snacks for a mini picnic at the top. Nothing says love like surprising your date with a sweet reward for their efforts.

💌 Make it Special – Write a little love note and secretly hide it in your partner’s coat pocket before the walk. They’ll discover it mid-walk, and boom—instant swoon.

🎶 Create a Couple’s Playlist – Load up your phone with a mix of romantic classics and inside-joke songs to play as you stroll. Bonus points if you add something ridiculous (yes, the Jurassic Park theme counts).

📸 Capture the Moment – Take photos together along the way, and DON’T let your partner say they look bad in every single one. This is love, people. Commit to finding at least one good shot!

After all that walking, you’ve earned a reward. Here are a few ideas to end your romantic day on a high note:

🕯️ Candlelit Dinner at Home – If you really want to impress your date without spending big, cook them something simple but thoughtful (a heart-shaped pizza is always a winner).

🔥 Find a Cozy Café or Pub – Head to The Bridge Inn in Linlithgow or Mason Belles Kitchen for some well-deserved food, warmth, and maybe a celebratory pint or two.

🎥 Movie Night with a Theme – Pick a Scottish romance film like Braveheart (not historically accurate but bonus points for drama) or Outlaw King and cuddle up.