Dalmeny Railway Cutting

Excursion title:

Dalmeny Railway Cutting

Date & time:

Wednesday 19 April 2017, 7 pm

Finish time:

about 9pm

Leader:

Beverly Bergman and Richard Smith, EGS/LBGC

Excursion aims and description:

The disused railway line between Dalmeny and South Queensferry has cuttings that present good exposures of some of the local geology. The rocks of this area formed early in the Carboniferous Period, and include volcanic rocks and sedimentary layers. We will view some of these layers and explore the relationship between the sedimentary and igneous rocks.

Transport:

Public transport (Stagecoach Bus no. 40/A/B) or private car

Start place & time:

Western corner of B road through Dalmeny village [NT 142 773] @7pm

First locality:

Base of the ramp into the old railway cutting west of Dalmeny [NT 1415 7725]

Excursion route:

Along track in old railway cutting NNW towards South Queensferry, returning along the same route.

Geological map:

Scotland 1:50k Sheet 32W Livingston

OS map:

Landranger 65 Falkirk and Linlithgow

Terrain, walking distance, height gain:

Gentle walk along cycle path, about 2-3 km. Rough ground and vegetation if approaching rock cuttings. https://www.plotaroute.com/route/326695

Specific or Medium- / High-Risk Hazards:

Take care when approaching the rock cuttings; trip and thorn hazard among the vegetation, and slipping, or falling rocks

Control measures required to mitigate against any Hazards referred to above:

Appropriate clothing for the weather, it may still be cold or wet in April. Good boots to approach the rock cuttings.

Hard hats or Hi-viz clothing needed?

Not necessary; at participants discretion.

May dogs be brought on the excursion?

Yes

Toilet information:

Dalmeny Railway Station

References:

BGS Scotland sheet 32W Bedrock and Superficial Deposits.