Beecraigs Country Park Circular
Edinburgh
Beecraigs Country Park is one of West Lothian's most dog friendly destinations, offering a well waymarked circular walk through 913 acres of woodland, loch and open hillside. The route takes in Beecraigs Loch and climbs to the summit of Cockleroy, a small but prominent hill with stunning views across the Central Belt from the Forth Bridges to the Highland peaks.
Dogs are welcome throughout the park and can be off lead on most trails. Be aware that blue green algae can occasionally affect the loch, so check notices at the visitor centre before letting dogs swim. The paths are well maintained woodland trails with a grassy path to the Cockleroy summit. The visitor centre has a cafe, toilets and picnic areas, making this an easy day out for dogs and families alike.
At a Glance
- Distance
- 7.2 km (4.5 miles)
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Duration
- 2 hr 30 min
- Walk Type
- Woodland, Park
- Route Type
- Circular
- Off Lead Potential
- High
- Livestock Risk
- None
- Facilities
- Visitor centre with cafe, toilets and picnic areas at the main car park.
- Parking
- Free car park at the Beecraigs Country Park visitor centre.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Beecraigs Country Park Circular dog friendly?
Beecraigs Country Park is one of West Lothian's most dog friendly destinations, earning a strong rating of 8.5 out of 10. Dogs are welcome throughout the park, and the route offers a varied mix of woodland trails, lochside paths and open hillside — plenty to keep curious noses busy.
Can dogs be off lead at Beecraigs Country Park Circular?
Yes, dogs can be off lead on most trails within the park, making it a great choice for dogs who love to roam freely. The paths are well maintained, so you can focus on enjoying the walk rather than navigating tricky terrain.
What should I know before visiting Beecraigs Country Park Circular with my dog?
The main thing to be aware of is that blue green algae can occasionally affect Beecraigs Loch, which can be harmful to dogs. It's worth checking the notices at the visitor centre before letting your dog swim. On a more positive note, the visitor centre has a cafe, toilets and picnic areas, and parking is free — making it an easy and well-supported day out.
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