Countryside Point to point

Pencaitland Railway Walk

Walk

Lothian

Distance
6.3 mi
Est. time
3h
Difficulty
Easy
PaulWalkmates Route by PaulWalkmates

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About this walk

Follow the old railway from the trailhead near West Saltoun to Crossgatehall, passing the Pencaitland and Ormiston access points along the way. Woodland, fields and railway history make this a gentle one-way outing. Start on the path north of the minor road, opposite the small parking area southwest of West Saltoun. Finish at the railway-path barrier by the Crossgatehall parking access; this walk does not continue towards Smeaton or Whitecraig.

Stay on the main railway path over Huntlaw Bridge and through the junctions near Ormiston and Elphinstone. Take care at the at-grade A6093 crossing. Wet leaves, mud, ice and fallen branches can make winter walking slower; do not continue through floodwater. Allow around three hours of walking, plus breaks, and enough daylight. Arrange your return in advance rather than relying on transport at the two trailheads.

Official route information: https://visiteastlothian.org/things-to-see-do/outdoor-activities/walking/walking-top-10/pencaitland-railway-walk/

Walk details

County
Lothian
Main location
West Saltoun
Nearby town
West Saltoun
Walk type
Point to point
Category
Countryside
Distance
6.3 mi (10.2 km)
Est. time
3h
Explorer
Yes, off the beaten track

Route map

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For walkers

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Along the route

12 places
Parking
Essentials
Parking
Essentials · 1.7 mi along
Parking
Essentials · 2.5 mi along
Information
Navigation · 3.3 mi along
Pencaitland Railway Walk
Information · 3.4 mi along
Information
Navigation · 3.4 mi along
Pencaitland Railway Walk Ormiston Station Car park
Parking · 3.4 mi along
Information
Navigation · 3.4 mi along
Information
Navigation · 4.2 mi along
Information
Navigation · 4.7 mi along
Pencaitland Railway Walk
Information · 6.3 mi along
Parking
Essentials · 6.3 mi along

Terms of Service

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Check the participant list and check-ins, and message the organiser or other walkers to confirm where to meet and who is coming. This is especially useful when the group is small.