Walk 29 – River Ayr Way (Annbank to Failford) – 7.5 miles

The walk starts at the bottom of Dunlop Avenue, Annbank where you will see a tall gate leading into a woodland area.  Follow the path downhill in the direction of the river. Very quickly you will find yourself in a beautiful woodland. On reaching the river the landscape opens up and after crossing over a minor road the impressive Enterkine Viaduct will come into view. Shortly before arriving in Stair you will come to a gate where the path leads away from the river on a de-tour across some farmland.  From here it is a short distance to the B730 at Stair and normally from here you turn right on the road however at time of writing there is a diversion in place so instead turn left heading uphill and look out for a way marker on the right.  This leads to a very pleasant walk along high ground on a wide track in the open countryside. Follow the track down to a large farmhouse, crossing the style into the field just before reaching it. At the other side of the field you will find another style which takes you back to path along the river. The track will lead you left across some farmland and at the highest point you will enter Ayr Gorge Woodland. The route from here is clearly marked out for you and there are information boards in several places which tell you all about it’s history and wildlife. You will come to a fork with one direction indicating that the path ends in 300m – an optional extra along to Peden’s Cove.  Re-joining the main path will lead you all the way onto B743 just next to Failford Inn.  From here you have the option to visit Highland Mary’s Monument which is clearly signposted– a very short walk up some steps will take you there, with lovely views down into the village.