Short birdwatching visit · Scottish Wildlife Trust
Addiewell Bing
- Tier
- Local green space
- Best season
- March–June breeding-bird interest; June–July wildflowers
- Headline birds
- Blackcap · Chiffchaff · Willow Warbler
- Parking
- Space for about two vehicles is described in front of the entrance gate off the B792.
- Hides
- Not stated by the operator
- Step-free
- Not stated by the operator
North of the B792 near Addiewell and West Calder
Addiewell Bing brings woodland birdwatching to a former oil-shale spoil heap north of the B792. The Scottish Wildlife Trust names breeding Blackcap, Chiffchaff and Willow Warbler here, alongside Reed Bunting in its wildlife selection. The mix of scrub, woodland and grassland gives a short visit several habitats to explore. Follow the path between the two roadside stiles, listening as well as looking for birds. This is a modest local stop with limited parking and uneven ground; the operator’s map marker identifies the reserve rather than a promised parking space.
When to go and where to look
The Trust highlights March to June for breeding birds and June to July for wildflowers. Those broad seasonal recommendations do not establish individual arrival or departure dates. Listen from the path and allow birds to remain in cover rather than entering scrub for a closer view. The stiles and uneven surface should shape expectations before setting out.
Sources: Scottish Wildlife Trust Addiewell Bing: overview, public arrival and wildlife. Planning reviewed 2026-10-25.
Birds and seasons
- Blackcap · Headline bird — Season not stated Source for Blackcap
- Chiffchaff · Headline bird — Season not stated Source for Chiffchaff
- Willow Warbler · Headline bird — Season not stated Source for Willow Warbler
- Reed Bunting — Season not stated Source for Reed Bunting
Plan your visit
- Hides and viewpoints
- Not stated by the operator – check before travelling
- Paths
- A path connects two access stiles; ground can be wet, muddy and uneven. Wear footwear with good grip.
- Toilets
- Not stated by the operator – check before travelling
- Parking
- Space for about two vehicles is described in front of the entrance gate off the B792.
- Dogs
- Not stated by the operator – check before travelling
- Access notes
- Not stated by the operator – check before travelling
- Step-free access
- Not stated by the operator – check before travelling
Getting there: From West Calder, follow the B792 towards Blackburn. The reserve lies on the north side of the road. Use a signed public stile and keep the entrance gate clear.
Sources
Social preview: original typographic artwork by Does Your Duck Quack.
Nearby special trips
- Musselburgh Lagoons and Levenhall Links · 22.2 straight-line miles
- Tay Reedbeds · 40.5 straight-line miles
- Cameron Reservoir · 42.0 straight-line miles
Continue birding nearby
Nearest full guide: RSPB Baron's Haugh, 16.1 miles away in a straight line.
- Hermand Birchwood · 1.8 miles in a straight line
- Linhouse Glen · 4.4 miles in a straight line
- Linlithgow Loch · 8.9 miles in a straight line