Monarch Of The...

...Country Park, Beecraigs.

Another of those days when our walking plans were changed mid-way, so instead of investigating Binny Craig, a classic crag-and-tail rock formation in West Lothian, we went to Beecraigs Country Park.

This is because, although the leaflet we were following suggested parking in the grounds of Oatridge Agricultural College, it appeared that we were some distance away and not necessarily better-placed for the best view of the crag; Beecraigs is not far away and has a café. Binny will be there for another day, preferably in better weather.

We took the route past the animal enclosures, where the stags were now minding their hinds, this one alert to our presence several hundred yards away behind a tall chain-link fence. The hinds were more relaxed. We admired the herd of Highland cattle, intrigued to see one deer among them.

There is an archery club at Beecraigs and we were able to watch two chaps as they shot at a target we could barely see - their modern bows have sights, I think. (see extra).

The loch is suffering from an algal bloom, rendering the wind-blown edges an eerie bluey-green colour. The waterfowl seem not to mind.

By then the rain had begun and, with umbrellas deployed, we made our way back to the car.

Our trip home took in three branches of Lidl, none of which had the required cat litter - this has happened before, when their supply suddenly stops but branches don't restock at the same time. We may find some yet, and do have some of another brand but find Lidl's the easiest to manage. Bramble will just have to put up with the alternatives.