Beecraigs Country Park is a beautiful natural space located in West Lothian, Scotland. The park covers over 900 acres of woodland and parkland, offering visitors a chance to explore the great outdoors and enjoy a variety of activities.
The park is home to a range of wildlife, including red deer, Highland cattle, and a variety of bird species. Visitors can take part in guided wildlife walks and birdwatching tours to learn more about the park’s inhabitants. The park also features a large lake, which is popular for fishing and boating.
In addition to its natural beauty, Beecraigs Country Park offers a range of activities for visitors of all ages. The park has a play area for children, as well as a high ropes course and mountain bike trails for those seeking more adventurous pursuits. There are also several picnic areas and a cafe on site, making it a great place for a day out with family and friends.
Location and Accessibility
Beecraigs Country Park is located in the heart of Central Scotland, just a short drive from Edinburgh, Linlithgow, and Bathgate. Situated in the picturesque Lothians, the park is easily accessible by car and public transport.
For those travelling by car, the park is conveniently located just off the M9 motorway, with easy access from junctions 3, 4, and 3A. Visitors can use the postcode EH49 6PL in their sat nav to find their way to the park. There is ample free parking available at the park, with a large car park located just off Preston Road.
Visitors can also reach Beecraigs Country Park by bus, with a regular bus service running from Edinburgh, Linlithgow, and Bathgate. The park is easily accessible from the A89 and B792 roads, and the A803 and M8 motorways.
For visitors with accessibility needs, Beecraigs Country Park provides an accessibility guide on their website. The guide includes information on the park’s facilities, including accessible toilets, parking, and paths. The park also offers a range of accessible activities, including wheelchair-friendly trails and a sensory garden.
Facilities and Amenities
Beecraigs Country Park offers a range of facilities and amenities to enhance visitors’ experiences.
The visitor centre is a great place to start your visit. Here, you can find information about the park, including maps of the trails, and purchase souvenirs. It also has a room hire service for meetings and events.
For those who want to stay overnight, the park has both caravan and camping sites. The caravan park has 28 pitches with electric hook-ups, while the camping site has 20 pitches with basic facilities. Both sites have access to toilets, showers, and a dishwashing area.
Families with children will enjoy the play area and adventure play area. The play area has swings, slides, and climbing frames, while the adventure play area has a zip line, climbing wall, and more challenging equipment. The park also has an animal attraction where visitors can see Highland cattle, Red deer, and other animals.
The park has several trails, including the Red Trail, Blue Trail, and Green Trail, which vary in difficulty and length. Visitors can explore the park’s natural beauty and wildlife while walking or cycling. There are also orienteering and skills areas available for those who want to challenge themselves.
For those who want to relax and enjoy a meal, the park has a cafe and the Hideaway Cafe. The cafe offers a range of hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals, while the Hideaway Cafe is a more secluded place to enjoy a coffee or cake. Both cafes have indoor and outdoor seating areas.
Other amenities include lodges and little lodges for overnight stays, target archery, a secure dog area, picnic tables, and BBQ hire. The park also has a large car park with plenty of spaces for visitors.
Outdoor Activities
Beecraigs Country Park offers a wide range of outdoor activities for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or an adrenaline-fueled adventure, there’s something here for everyone.
Walking
The park boasts over 12 miles of well-maintained walking trails, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging hikes. The Ranger Service offers guided walks throughout the year, providing visitors with the opportunity to learn more about the park’s flora and fauna.
Cycling
For those who prefer two wheels, Beecraigs has a variety of cycling routes to choose from. The park offers a mix of on-road and off-road cycling trails, including a dedicated mountain bike trail. Visitors can hire bikes on-site, or bring their own.
Mountain Bike Trails
The park’s mountain bike trail is a challenging 5-mile route, designed for experienced riders. The trail features technical sections, jumps, and drops, and is sure to get your heart racing.
Pioneering Course
The park’s pioneering course is a great activity for groups. The course consists of a series of challenges, including rope bridges, zip lines, and climbing walls. The course is suitable for all ages, and is a great way to build teamwork and communication skills.
Wildlife and Nature
Beecraigs Country Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife and nature. Visitors can enjoy observing and learning about the different species that inhabit the park, including:
- Red deer: Beecraigs Country Park is home to a population of red deer, which can often be seen grazing in the fields and woodlands.
- Highland cattle: These iconic Scottish cattle can be found grazing in the fields of Beecraigs Country Park. They are known for their shaggy coats and distinctive horns.
- Hebridean sheep: These small, hardy sheep are a rare breed, and Beecraigs Country Park is one of the few places where they can be seen in their natural habitat.
- North Ronaldsay sheep: Another rare breed of sheep, the North Ronaldsay sheep can be seen grazing in the fields of Beecraigs Country Park. They are known for their ability to survive on a diet of seaweed.
- Belted Galloway cattle: These distinctive cattle are known for their white belts around their midsections. They can often be seen grazing in the fields of Beecraigs Country Park.
In addition to the park’s resident wildlife, visitors can also enjoy the park’s woodland areas, which are home to a variety of bird species, including woodpeckers, nuthatches, and treecreepers. Beecraigs Loch is also a popular spot for birdwatching, with a variety of waterfowl species calling the loch home.
Events and Special Attractions
Beecraigs Country Park offers a range of events and special attractions throughout the year. From family-friendly activities to seasonal events, there is always something to enjoy at this picturesque park.
One of the most popular events is the Beecraigs Festive Forest, which takes place during the Christmas season. Visitors can stroll through the forest and enjoy the magical atmosphere of the twinkling lights and festive decorations. It’s a perfect way to get into the holiday spirit and create lasting memories with loved ones.
For those who love panoramic views, Beecraigs Country Park is an ideal destination. The park is set in the Bathgate Hills, with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the park, taking in the fresh air and beautiful scenery.
Throughout the year, Beecraigs Country Park hosts a variety of special events, including guided walks and nature trails. These events provide an opportunity to learn more about the flora and fauna of the park and the wider West Lothian area.
Accommodation and Bookings
Beecraigs Country Park offers a range of accommodation options for visitors. Whether you are looking for a cozy lodge or a spacious caravan, you are sure to find something that suits your needs.
Lodges
The park has a selection of lodges that are perfect for families and groups. These lodges come with all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay, including kitchens, bathrooms, and living areas. The lodges are well-maintained and provide a great base for exploring the park and the surrounding area.
Bookings
To book your stay at Beecraigs Country Park, you can visit their website or call their booking line. The park is open year-round, and you can book your accommodation for any length of stay. It is recommended that you book in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.
Accommodation
In addition to lodges, the park also has a range of other accommodation options, including caravans and camping pods. These options are perfect for those who prefer a more rustic experience. All of the accommodation options are pet-friendly, so you can bring your furry friends along for the adventure.
Pet-Friendly
Beecraigs Country Park is a pet-friendly park, and all of the accommodation options are pet-friendly as well. This means that you can bring your pets along with you on your stay. The park has plenty of open space for your pets to run and play, and there are also designated dog walking areas.
Pets Welcome
At Beecraigs Country Park, your pets are not just welcome, they are part of the family. The park staff are friendly and knowledgeable about pets, and they will do everything they can to make sure that you and your pets have a great stay. So, if you are looking for a pet-friendly holiday destination, Beecraigs Country Park is the perfect choice.
Community and Support
Beecraigs Country Park is more than just a park. It is a community hub where people come together to enjoy the stunning natural surroundings, engage in outdoor activities, and connect with others who share their interests.
Families are a big part of the Beecraigs community. The park offers a range of activities that are perfect for families with children of all ages. From the adventure playground to the animal farm, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The park also hosts regular events and activities that are designed to bring families together and create lasting memories.
One of the key pillars of the Beecraigs community is the Friends of Beecraigs group. This volunteer organisation is dedicated to supporting the park and ensuring that it remains a spectacular place for everyone to enjoy. The group organises events, raises funds, and works closely with the park management team to identify areas where support is needed.
At Beecraigs, community feedback is highly valued. The park management team regularly conducts feedback surveys to gather input from visitors on how they can improve the park experience. This feedback is used to inform decision-making and ensure that the park continues to meet the needs of the community.
Nearby Attractions
Beecraigs Country Park is located in the heart of Scotland and offers visitors a wide range of nearby attractions to explore. Whether you are looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or family-friendly activities, there is something for everyone in the surrounding area.
One of the top attractions near Beecraigs Country Park is Polkemmet Country Park. This beautiful park is located just a short drive away and offers visitors a chance to explore stunning gardens, woodlands, and walking trails. You can also enjoy a round of golf, visit the children’s play area, or take a relaxing stroll along the river.
For those looking to explore more of the local area, the Forth Valley is a must-visit destination. This stunning region is home to some of Scotland’s most picturesque landscapes, including the famous Kelpies sculpture and the Falkirk Wheel. Visitors can also explore historic sites such as Stirling Castle and the Wallace Monument.
If you are looking for a peaceful escape, there are plenty of walks and hiking trails near Beecraigs Country Park. You can explore the surrounding hills and forests, take a leisurely stroll along the canal, or enjoy a picnic in one of the many scenic spots in the area.