A short but extremely sweet walk along the pristine sandy beach at Stevenston, returning to the start via the sand dunes footpath. Teeming with wildlife in the summer, look out for several species of butterflies and wildflowers along the way. … More Walk 176 – Stevenston Beach Circular – 1 mile
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
There is something mystical, if a little eerie about the woodlands of Craufurdland Estate and it is my new favourite place to explore! This short 1.6 mile circuit takes you around some of it’s trails, avoiding the worst of the mud (still expect lots!), and along a high-level footpath above the Fenwick Water. Host of the popular Muddy Trials event, there are paths galore zig zagging through the trees meaning this the walk can easily be extended should you wish. You may even stumble across the Skrek swamp! … More Walk 165 – Craufurdland Woodland Trail, Kilmarnock – 1.6 miles
An astonishingly beautiful short walk through a deep wooded glen following the River Doon as it begins it’s journey between Loch Doon and the Firth of Clyde at Doonfoot, Ayr. Expect waterfalls a-plenty! Form a loop by returning to the start via the hill path. The footpaths are uneven and narrow in places and you can expect boggy conditions on the hill path. Be sure to take a camera as there are MANY photo opportunities! … More Walk 162 – Ness Glen, Loch Doon – 1.8 miles
Also known as the curling stone walk, this loop in the Dailly countryside follows the course of the Lindsayston Burn through quirky woodland and a tricky area of felled trees before returning to the start via quiet country roads. Enjoy views as far as Ailsa Craig on a clear day, as well as across the farmland towards the ruins of the impressive Dalquharran Castle. … More Walk 159 – Lindsayston Walk, Dailly – 2.6 miles
The Whangie: strange by name and strange by nature! This massive and unique rocky outcrop seems to appear out of nowhere on an otherwise grassy hillside. Situated at an elevation of 300m (984 ft), the 10m high rocks have a narrow passageway through the middle, formed during the Ice Age. Easy to reach by following the well-worn although muddy footpath which climbs at a gentle gradient. On a clear day enjoy the views across to Loch Lomond and the Campsies as well as the hills of the Scottish Highlands to the north. … More Walk 145 – The Whangie, Kilpatrick Hills – 2.7 miles
A semi-loop through the spectacular woodland of Lanfine Estate in Darvel, passing alongside it’s infamous wild boar family en route. A mixture of surfaced tracks and earth footpaths. … More Walk 143 – Lanfine’s Wild Boars, Darvel – 2.3 miles
An easy walk around the pretty conservation village of Luss, famous (if you are of a certain age!) for having been the setting for the successful TV soap ‘High Road’. This walk encompasses it’s sandy beach, the Luss Water and a quiet woodland containing remnants of a former slate quarry. … More Walk 133 – Luss Heritage Trail, Loch Lomond – 1.5 miles
A pleasant walk around one of the quieter areas of forestry within the UK’s largest onshore windfarm. Starting at the parking area just off Ardochrig Road (near Strathaven), you soon find yourself on a mossy track through the trees. In this area it is possible to spot jay, bullfinch, merlin, peregrine, roe deer, and occasionally goldeneye ducks on the ponds! … More Walk 117 – Cleughearn Forestry Walk, Whitelee Windfarm – 2.9 miles
This is a short walk around a scenic woodland area of Dunfermline called Calais Muir. A popular place with local dog walkers, the gravel track is also perfect for a stroll with the pram. Easily accessible from the neighbouring residential areas of the town if you wish to extend the length of the walk, or park right beside it – your choice! … More Walk 116 – Calais Muir Wood, Dunfermline – 1.5 miles
Gillian's Walks 