Wednesday, 21 Jan 2026
Red Squirrel Appreciation Day falls on the 21 January this year and we're sharing some of our favour…
A mix of species can be found in this working forest. From mature Scots pines to young spruce as well as rowan, birch and willow. There’s even an old beech hedge - a clue that there’s been woodland here for quite a while. It’s a beautiful, peaceful place with plenty of woodland birds to spot.
There are no waymarked trails, but there’s a good network of mostly level forest roads, tracks and paths. The paths and tracks are uneven and muddy in places.
There are places to eat in Kirknewton, Livingston or Balerno. The nearest public toilets are in Livingston.
There is only layby parking at this location.
A single forestry track runs from east to west through the wood and it’s possible to park at either end of this. The east entrance is on Leyden Road, half way between Kirknewton and the junction with the A70. The west entrance is 1 mile along Morton Road - take the turn-off for 'Morton Clay Targets' from the A71 to access this.
This is a working forest, with large lorries turning and requiring access. Please park so vehicles can get in and out of the forest road.
Nearest postcode: EH27 8DQ (for Leyden Road entrance)
Buses go to Kirknewton, about 1 ¼ miles (2 km) away. Check Traveline Scotland for details.
Have a question or suggestion for improvement?

Coal mining country reclaimed by woodland and wildlife

A vital site of Scotland's Industrial Revolution, now home to wildflowers and butterflies

Escape from the buzz of the motorway in this young forest