Linlithgow Loch Circular
West Lothian
Linlithgow Loch is the largest natural freshwater loch in the Lothians, a 41-hectare Site of Special Scientific Interest sitting immediately below the ruins of Linlithgow Palace, birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots. Dogs are welcome off lead on the quieter stretches, though the path is popular with other dogs and walkers, especially at weekends. This 3.5km circular follows a good, flat path right around the water, taking in views of the palace and the adjoining parkland known as the Peel, and passing close to Linlithgow's High Street and train station. The loch supports stocked rainbow trout and a variety of waterfowl, and the surrounding parkland has been a public green space for centuries. The going underfoot is level and well surfaced throughout, making this one of the easiest circular walks in West Lothian.
This dog friendly walk is a straightforward, flat outing with the water alongside for the whole loop, giving dogs plenty of interest and a chance to drink at the edge. There is moderate off-lead potential away from the busiest stretches near the town and the Peel, though this is a popular path and you will likely meet plenty of other dogs and walkers, so recall matters. The Lochside Cafe on the southern shore is dog friendly and makes a natural stop partway round or at the end. There is no livestock on the route. Parking is available in various car parks off Linlithgow High Street, and the town itself has plenty of other cafes, shops and toilets close to the loch.
At a Glance
- Distance
- 3.5 km (2.2 miles)
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Duration
- 1 hr 5 min
- Walk Type
- Lake, Historic
- Route Type
- Circular
- Off Lead Potential
- Moderate
- Livestock Risk
- None
- Facilities
- Lochside Cafe (dog friendly) on the southern shore; further cafes, shops and toilets in Linlithgow town centre.
- Parking
- Various car parks off Linlithgow High Street, some pay and display, close to the train station.
Dog Friendly Stays Nearby
Make a weekend of it. These are the closest dog friendly places to stay to Linlithgow Loch Circular, each one checked for its dog policy before we listed it.
Greenbank Farm Cottage
Sleeps 4 · 2 dogs · Enclosed garden
from £572 / 7 nights
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All dog friendly stays in West LothianFrequently Asked Questions
Is Linlithgow Loch Circular dog friendly?
Yes, Linlithgow Loch Circular is a great choice for dogs and earns a solid 8/10 on our dog friendly rating. Dogs are welcome throughout the 3.5km loop, there's no livestock on the route, and the Lochside Cafe on the southern shore is dog friendly too. The flat, well-surfaced path also means it's comfortable going for dogs of all ages and sizes.
Can dogs be off lead at Linlithgow Loch Circular?
There is moderate off-lead potential here, particularly on the quieter stretches away from the town centre and the Peel parkland. The path is popular, especially at weekends, so you'll likely encounter other dogs and walkers regularly — good recall is worth having before you let yours loose. The loch edge gives dogs plenty of opportunity to drink and explore along the way.
What should I know before visiting Linlithgow Loch Circular with my dog?
The walk is a flat, easy 3.5km loop on a good surface, so it's a relaxed outing with no tricky terrain to navigate. It can get busy at weekends, and the loch supports waterfowl throughout the year, so it's worth keeping that in mind if your dog has a strong chase instinct. Parking is available in various car parks off Linlithgow High Street, and the town has cafes, shops and toilets close to the loch if you need anything before or after your walk.
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