Tailend Moss

Tailend Moss is a lowland raised bog composed of deep peat that has accumulated over thousands of years. It is an important site for damselflies, dragonflies and peatland plants, such as bog asphodel, cranberry and sundews.

Why visit?

Highlights include:

  • Dragonflies and damselflies
  • Peatland plants

Best time to visit?

  • Jun to Aug for dragonflies

Visit for:

  • birdwatching
  • wildflowers
  • peatlands

Other information

A path leads into the reserve and along its northern edge.

Facilities

Hover for more information

VISITING THE RESERVE

How to get there

Directions

Take the M8 west from Edinburgh and exit at Junction 3a. At the first roundabout, go straight (east) on the A779, taking the first exit to Starlaw Park at the next roundabout. When you come to a T-junction, turn right and follow the road round the industrial estate. Park on the side of this road.

Get directions

Getting onto the reserve

A path opposite Macraes Seafood Factory leads to Tailend Moss – you should be able to spot a wooden footpath sign that will guide you. Follow this path for a short distance north before turning left (west), and then proceed along this path to the access point into the reserve. The footpath leads into the reserve and along the northern edge of Tailend Moss.

Access restrictions

There is a path that runs through the reserve. Please note that the path can be wet, especially after heavy rainfall, and appropriate footwear should be worn. Care should also be taken near the ponds. It is recommended that visitors stay on the path due to the wet, soft and uneven ground found on Tailend Moss.

Nearest town
Bathgate (1 mi / 1.6 km)
OS grid ref
NT005678
Landranger map
65

FURTHER READING

About Tailend Moss

Out & about

Nearby reserves
Petershill
Addiewell Bing

Local group
Lothians

Links & downloads

Reserve map

iSpot

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