Five Sisters & The Pyramids
5 people attending
7 places left
No, not some Egyptology course, this is the man made landscape of West Lothian.
The Five Sisters Bing is one of the most distinctive remnants of the shale industry that dominated the area in more ways than one in the 19th and 20th centuries, many have been removed and used as material for roadbuilding but the Five Sisters remains as a monument to the past industry of the area.
Our walk also takes in the smaller Seafield Law, another bing before heading for Bathgate, where we pass The Pyramids. These are another man made construction, originally constructed in 1993 as The Sawtooth Ramps sculpture but more commonly known as The Pyramids.
This is a linear walk between two railway stations, so is easier to reach by public transport.
Dogs are welcome, however will need to be kept on the leash for some parts due to cattle on the loose.
Photos : Taken by AMD
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Want to keep in touch with what's going on in Scotland? Join our Telegram chat and notification groups and bookmark our upcoming events list via our Scottish Calendar.
What to bring
Please check the weather forecast before leaving the house and prepare for the weather on the day!
Water: bring at least two litres
Medicines: if you have hay fever, diabetes, minor ailments etc.
Day rucksack: typically 20-30 litres, they are comfortable to wear and allow you to use your arms freely
Boots: decent footwear is required as a few bits of paths are muddy and slippery
Socks: proper walking socks will keep your feet dry and help prevent blisters
Layered clothing: lets you quickly adapt to changes in the weather and body temperature. Go for a base layer (vest or t-shirt) and a mid layer (a micro fleece or shirt) and in cooler weather add an outer layer (a windproof jacket or thick fleece)
Trousers: ideally no jeans as they become heavy and cold in the rain, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry and on warm days shorts are OK
Waterproof jacket: essential when hiking in all but the calmest of weather, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry
Gloves: Windproof, or better still, waterproof gloves are the best choice, bring a spare pair if expecting rain
Hat or cap: stay warm in winter and shaded in summer
Sunglasses: for any sunny day, even in winter
Food & drink
You must bring a packed lunch, along with plenty of drinks and snacks for the whole day.
There are shops in West Calder, such as a Scotmid and a Day Today.