Walks in Ayrshire. Ayrshire is a region in the south west of Scotland almost 2000 square miles in size. It is best known as the birthplace of the famous poet Robert Burns as well as the world-renowned whisky brand Johnnie Walker. An area rich in farmland, if you visit at the right time of year you can experience our very own potatoes – Ayrshire tatties – growing in the fields along the coast. You will also find close to 50 golf courses here. Ayrshire enjoys over 100 stunning miles of walk-able coastline – known as the Ayrshire Coastal Path – and is also home to Scotland’s first source to sea long distance walking route – The River Ayr Way. Both of those routes have official NatureScot designation as Scotland’s Great Trails which means that they are amongst Scotland’s “finest long distance trails”. The islands of Arran and Cumbrae are a short ferry journey away. Inland there are many attractive rural towns and villages as well as several river valleys which offer an abundance of walks. Particular favourites of mine include the villages of Straiton and Barr, The Doon Valley and the Irvine Valley.
This fully way-marked circular walk takes you along the Water of Gregg and into the tranquil Changue Forest. As you gaze down into the Stinchar Valley from the viewpoint, ponder the legend of the battle between the Devil and the Laird of Changue reputed to have taken place here many years ago. … More Walk 220 – Devil’s Trail, Barr
A beautiful short walk in the quiet Dunlop countryside. Starting with the Commoncraig Wood’s bubbling burn and bench with a view, a short hop over a stile takes you along the road to the impressive Dunlop House. The route returns to the village via the recently upgraded Wee Glen. … More Walk 218 – Commoncraig & The Wee Glen, Dunlop – 2.9 miles
A village favourite, this short circular walk begins at Dunlop Train Station and takes you through the conservation area of the village to Dunlop Kirk before heading out into the countryside. An adventure through the Millenium Woods is next, en route to the ruins of Templehouse where Minnie Gemmell once lived. Return to the village via quiet tracks and country lanes, past the former cricket lawn. … More Walk 217 – Minnie Gemmell’s Loop, Dunlop – 2 miles
A pleasant short walk along quiet country roads and the NCN73 cycle path, starting in the village of Knockentiber. … More Walk 212 – Knockentiber Circular – 2.5 miles
This walk takes you around the perimeter of Glenafton Reservoir just outside New Cumnock. On a still day the water creates stunning reflections of the surrounding hills and forests so remember to take your camera! … More Walk 207 – Afton Dam Circular – 5 miles
A fairly challenging linear walk taking in the first (or last in my case!) section of the River Ayr Way as well as an ascent of Cairn Table (1945 ft / 593 m), the most prominent hill in East Ayrshire. … More Walk 205 – River Ayr Way (Wellwood to Glenbuck Loch via Cairn Table) – 13.7 miles
Bargany Gardens are location approximately 4.5 miles inland from Girvan. The owners of this private estate open the gardens up to the public each May which is the perfect time of year to witness them in full springtime glory. The gardens comprise 50 acres of mature woodland, known for its colourful rhododendrons and huge fir trees. Within the gardens you will also find a picture-perfect boating pond, a walled garden with cherry tree orchard, a rock garden, various pagodas and a hidden formal lawn. … More Walk 204 – Bargany Gardens, near Girvan
The Blue Bonnet Trails are made up of the 3 mile Tam’s Trail and the 1.5 mile Alloway Trail. They follow the journey taken from Ayr Town Centre to Alloway by Tam o’ Shanter as recounted in one of the most famous poems ever written by Rabbie Burns. As you walk the trails look out for the blue bonnet way markers. The route described in the post below is 7.5 miles in total and takes in both trails with the addition of a loop back into Ayr via the beautiful promenade. … More Walk 199 – Blue Bonnet Trails, Ayr & Alloway
A lovely peaceful walk between the two East Ayrshire villages of Stewarton and Dunlop. After a short section through Lainshaw Woods the remainder of the walk uses quiet single track roads before an optional de-tour through the Millennium Woodland Nature Park in Dunlop. There are a few hills on this route, the reward being stunning views across to the Isle of Arran, Ailsa Craig and north to Ben Lomond if it is a clear day! … More Walk 198 – Stewarton to Dunlop – 7.4 miles
Starting at Dewaldens Garden Centre in Kilmarnock, this route first crosses Caprington Golf Course and then makes use of paved roads and paths to reach the 95 acre Coodham Estate just outside Symington. Take time to explore the Estate’s many interesting features and paths including the lake, mansion, shrine and graveyard, before starting the walk back to Kilmarnock via the high road past Stafflar Farm. A few short busy sections to be aware of – see route info for details. Option to extend past Caprington Castle to form an 8 mile loop. … More Walk 197 – Coodham Estate from Kilmarnock – 6.2 miles
A peaceful walk following the River Irvine between Kilmarnock and Gatehead, returning via the beautiful Caprington Woods and castle. … More Walk 196 – Kilmarnock to Gatehead Circular – 5.3 miles
Discover the many trails of the beautiful Brockle Wood with its pretty burn that leads you to the mighty River Ayr. This short circular route has a lot to offer and is especially recommended in Autumn! … More Walk 192 – Brockle Wood from Annbank – 1.6 miles
On a clear day the views from this route are simply outstanding: the islands of Cumbrae & Arran and the pink sandy beaches at Fairlie and Hunterston. A variety of woodland paths, tracks and grassy hillsides lead you gently uphill past the remains of Fairlie Castle and along the base of Black Hill. The return section follows the Fairlie Moor Road and then the Ayrshire Coastal Path. There is the opportunity to visit some fantastic hidden waterfalls along the route if you don’t mind some slightly rougher terrain for a few minutes! … More Walk 191 – Fairlie Glens and Waterfalls Circular – 4.3 miles
This short circular walk around the Caaf Water is packed with unexpected ‘fairy’ surprises hidden within a tranquil wooded glen. The gorge is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest because of the unique and interesting rocks it contains. Perfect for families and for anyone who likes waterfalls! The paths can be muddy at times and there are several sets of stairs. … More Walk 190 – Lynn Glen, Dalry – 1.3 miles
A delightful short walk taking in some of Kilmaurs’ best bits, including Morton Park and the war memorial, St Maurs-Glencairn Parish Church, the remains of “Penny Bridge” and the impressive toolbooth known as the Jougs. It is actually much more of a countryside trail than its name suggests, including several field crossings. Wellies sometimes advisable! … More Walk 189 – Kilmaurs Town Trail – 1.6 miles
Gillian's Walks 