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Setting off from the historic town of Linlithgow, historically the county town of West Lothian, this loop route gives a true insight into the area’s rich history.
Beginning close to Linlithgow Palace, the birthplace of James V and Mary, Queen of Scots, the route heads east before turning northwards towards the village of Blackness on the banks of the Firth of Forth.
Explore the long and bloody history of Blackness Castle, which dates back to the 15th Century, before riding the gentle, uphill roads to return towards Linlithgow.
A downloadable map is available to view here
- Overview
- Key info
- Getting There
- On Public Transport Route
- Children Welcome
- Pet Friendly
Blackness, the former port of Linlithgow, is a charming coastal village and the Castle Attracts many tourists.
The route includes some fine views along and across the Firth of Forth to Ochil Hills and the Bridges, and excellent views of Linlithgow Loch, Town and Palace on the return journey.
Terrain: Mostly undulating.
The route crosses the rolling range of hills between Linlithgow and Blackness.
Mainly downhill on the way out, as Blackness is at sea level whilst Linlithgow is 80m above.
Hence there is a long steady climb out of Blackness on return journey.
The route is mainly on minor roads. Click here to view larger map
Address
Linlithgow Burgh Halls
The Cross
Linlithgow
EH49 7AH
Distance: 16km (10m)
Grade: Moderate
Time to Allow: 1.5 hrs
Points of interest along the way:
- Linlithgow Palace
- Linlithgow Peel
- Linlithgow Burgh Halls
- Annet House Museum
- Linlithgow Canal Centre
- Low Port Centre
- House of the Binns
- Rouken Glen Garden Centre
- Blackness Castle
- CPS Activity
There are regular bus and train services link Linlithgow with Edinburgh and Glasgow. For Bus information check www.firstgroup.com/ukbus/scotland_east/
For Rail information check www.nationalrail.co.uk/ or www.scotrail.co.uk
Travel by Car
From M9 northbound leave at junction 3 and follow signs for Linlithgow. From M9 southbound leave at Junction 4 and follow signs on A803 for Linlithgow
From M8 leave at junction 4 and follow signs on A706 to Linlithgow
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