Category: South Ayrshire

Walks in South Ayrshire. This region enjoys an extensive coastline, with some stunning rugged sections. Inland there is an abundance of rural towns and villages with fantastic path networks such as around Straiton, Barr, Dailly and the Stinchar Valley. The region includes the towns of Ayr and Girvan, and the village of Alloway (birthplace of Robert Burns). One half of the River Ayr Way (one of Scotland’s Great Trails) also passes through South Ayrshire, between Ayr and Failford. There are many Scottish castles in the region, including the iconic Culzean Castle & Country Park, Dundonald Caslte and the ruins of Dunure and Greenan castles. Not forgetting the famous golf courses at Turnberry, Prestwick and Royal Troon, to name a few.

Pond surrounded by colourful flowers and trees at Bargany Gardens

Walk 204 – Bargany Gardens, near Girvan

November 28, 2021

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

Woodland path with blue bonnet trail way marker in foreground

Walk 199 – Blue Bonnet Trails, Ayr & Alloway

June 30, 2021

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

Coodham House seen from across the loch

Walk 197 – Coodham Estate from Kilmarnock – 6.2 miles

April 1, 2021

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

Walk 185 – Cornish Hill & its Loch – 3.4 miles

December 10, 2018

A brilliant and fairly easy circular walk from the Stinchar Bridge to the top of Cornish Hill, returning via the secluded and peaceful Cornish Loch. A good path the whole way, boggy in places. Fantastic views on a clear day! Parking at Stinchar Bridge car park, Straiton to Bargrennan Road. No public transport to start … More Walk 185 – Cornish Hill & its Loch – 3.4 miles

Reflections of the red sandstone gorge and trees in the River Ayr

Walk 178 – Ayr Gorge Woodlands Reserve, Failford – 3.5 miles

July 17, 2018

Ayr Gorge Woodlands Reserve is the ‘jewel in the crown’ of the Scottish Wildlife Trust Ayrshire. Follow the path of the River Ayr as it flows through a deep red sandstone gorge. This circular / figure-of-eight route takes you around most of the main trails, giving you the opportunity to explore this beautiful ancient woodland including the popular viewpoint at Peden’s Cove. … More Walk 178 – Ayr Gorge Woodlands Reserve, Failford – 3.5 miles

Walk 174 – Kirstie’s Trail, Barr

June 14, 2018

Beautifully scenic forestry tracks take you along to Kirstie’s Cairn, a memorial to young local farmer Christopher McTaggart who lost his life there in a blizzard in 1913. An easy walk which can either be 4 or 6 miles return depending on your start point. Instead why not form a loop and experience the famous Fairy Knowe Trail whilst you are there?  Or head up to High Changue on the Devil’s Trail for incredible views down the valley?  … More Walk 174 – Kirstie’s Trail, Barr

Walk 171 – Old Auchans House, Dundonald – 2.2 miles

April 25, 2018

Wandering though this delightful woodland, the impressive remains of Old Auchans House seem to appear out of nowhere.  Now a category ‘A’ listed building, the mansion dates back to the 16th century and has been home to the Wallace, Cochrane and Montgomerie families over the years. There are two circular route options detailed below, both of which start and end at Dundonald Castle Visitor Centre. … More Walk 171 – Old Auchans House, Dundonald – 2.2 miles

Walk 170 – Barony Hill & the Quarry – 7 miles

April 8, 2018

Rural south Ayrshire at it’s best! Even the drive to the start of this walk is scenic and will leave you desperate to park up and head out! Awaiting you lie quiet country roads, muddy farm tracks and a steep ascent to the fantastic viewpoint atop Barony Hill (310m/1017ft). There is even an optional de-tour to visit the hidden remains of a impressive disused quarry and limekilns.  … More Walk 170 – Barony Hill & the Quarry – 7 miles