A new parkrun has joined the Scotland gang with the launch of Beecraigs Country Park parkrun near Linlithgow, which first took place on 27 December with 357 eager participants. Set within Beecraigs Country Park in the Bathgate Hills, the event is held in a stunning outdoor space covering more than 370 hectares of farmland, meadow and woodland.

The launch marked the culmination of several years of work. While plans for the event had been developing for some time, organisers say progress accelerated after the Covid period, as the benefits of a local parkrun for physical and mental wellbeing became increasingly clear.

The course is a single lap route run on a mix of gravel and trail paths. It follows the southern boundary of the park and runs alongside the mountain bike skills area, offering a varied and gently challenging trail experience in a natural setting.

As with all parkruns, volunteers are at the heart of the event. Organisers commented: "Thank you to everyone who has given their time to get the event off the ground, many of whom are event and run directors at other parkruns. Their involvement has helped ensure a smooth and welcoming start as the event establishes itself."

Post parkrun coffees have already become part of the routine, with runners and volunteers gathering each week at the Bridge Inn in Linlithgow Bridge to socialise and reflect on the morning’s run.

If you'd like to know more, visit the Beecraigs Country Park parkrun page.

Image: Beecraigs Country Park parkrun Facebook