The woods tree population is divided distinctly by age. Along the former field boundaries and drainage courses sit a shelterbelt of beech trees; closer inspection reveals the presence of an occasional hornbeam. Very similar in appearance, they are quite a different tree and rarely found so far north. Looking further back sits a well-spaced mix of mature birch with a good scattering of native coniferous Scots pine.

The new planting is a good mix of native broadleaf; oak, aspen, alder, birch and willow. These trees, given time, will achieve considerable stature and develop into a well balanced mature woodland. Good thought has been given to the all-important understorey and holly, hazel and rowan have been included in the mix.

A walk through the wood soon reveals a network of well-trodden trails crisis crossing the woodland floor. Itinerant roe deer together with foraging badgers are creatures of habit and are the main culprits responsible for these silvan highways. Fox, stoat and weasel have less predictable habits but no doubt take advantage of these pathways.

A pockmarked rotting stem is a perfect location for a woodpecker to make its home, its staccato hammering echoing throughout the wood. A flash of blue and white in the corner of the eye is often the first sight of the shyest of the corvids; the handsome jay. Many smaller birds can be also seen foraging within the low canopy, wrens, bullfinch and great tit to name but a few.

Just behind the ridestop entrance, a firm stoney area will facilitate the management of the wood. This would facilitate a stacking and drying area for a sustainable supply of domestic firewood.

A rustic bench invites a chance to sit awhile, enjoy the views both near and far, and contemplate the rich variety of nature's bounty.

A small footbridge provides a crossing point of a small watercourse which bounds the wood. Water features are not always available within woodlands and the presence of one is a certain draw for animals ands humans alike: a very valuable and worthwhile asset.

Fringed with damp loving plants this is yet another aspect of this interesting and varied woodland.

Right of access into the wood is off a minor road and then along a firm stone track, which is accessible by most cars leading all the way to the ridestop entrance.

Moving throughout the wood is facilitated by the presence of several open grassy rides which run along the boundaries and through the centre.

The sporting rights are owned and included in the sale.

Keps Wood is an exciting opportunity to acquire woodland in an early stage of development. Careful management and gentle intervention and guidance will ensure growth into maturity and diversity. Due to its position close to the major conurbations in the central belt, it would make an excellent bolt hole for those wishing to take a break from city life. Its diversity of habitat means that a wildlife watcher will always discover something new to stimulate interest

Although hard to believe now, this area was once the focal point of the Scottish oil shale industry which extracted several million tons of oil-bearing mineral from beneath the earth. An obvious remaining feature is the nearby Five Sisters bings. Once regarded as an eyesore, they are now seen as an ecological asset as they have now been colonised by a variety of rare plants.

The woodland at West Mains was created as part of a landscape improvement scheme initiated by West Lothian council and a local developer of nearby housing.

Keps Wood takes its name from the handmade basket which was used in and around the mines for carrying a variety of products.